South Australia is a renowned agricultural state, and therefore is quite famous for its abundance of fresh produce. The coastal areas of the state are thriving seafood regions, boasting some of the best seafood restaurants and cuisines in the country. The remote outback regions are jam-packed with large cattle stations, providing urban cities in the state and around Australia with quality beef. When it comes to international dining experiences and clubbing ventures, Adelaide is head and shoulders above the rest. Coopers is the main beer brewed in South Australia, so tourists will be able to sample it anywhere the state.
Bars and Pubbing in South Australia
Adelaide is the heart of South Australia’s night culture. There are so many wonderful pubs, clubs and lounges to enjoy after the sun goes down. Remember that smoking is not allowed inside venues, so outdoor smoking areas are usually available at most establishments. Jive (181 Hindley Street, Adelaide) is open on the weekends and occasionally on weekdays, offering live music and DJs for the young crowd. HQ (1 North Terrace, Adelaide) is the largest club in the state, and the busiest in Adelaide on Saturday nights. The Rocket Bar (142 Hindley Street, Adelaide) hosts live music every weekend. Some pubs in the city stay open until 5:30 a.m., but many close at 2:00 a.m.
Kangaroo Island is home to plenty of pubs and watering holes. The Penneshaw Hotel (North Terrace, Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island) is a busy place, boasting a fantastic social atmosphere. It contains massive TVs that are great for sport watching. The Shed (Tangara Drive, American River) is a welcoming venue on Friday and Saturday nights. For the best chill out spot on the island, go to Dudley Cellar Door (Willoughby Road, Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island).
Port Lincoln is famous for being within striking distance of many South Australian attractions. Therefore, tourists who visit for a night or two can find several relaxing venues for when the sun goes down. Marina Hotel (13 Jubilee Drive, Port Lincoln) is a chilled pub-hotel with great views of the marina. Sarin’s Restaurant and Bar (1 Lincoln Highway, Port Lincoln) is perfect for an evening out. Enjoy a great dinner then relax with drinks overlooking the bay.
Dining and Cuisine in South Australia
Adelaide’s culinary scene is mostly centered around Rundle Street, Hutt Street and Gouger Street, where up-market and mid-market restaurants offer international, seafood and local cuisine. Shiki (Intercontinental Hotel, North Terrace, Adelaide) is the best Japanese restaurant in the city. A beautiful river setting with excellent Australian cuisine is found at Red Ochre (War Memorial Drive, North Adelaide). Another high-end restaurant with great food and perfect views of the city is Windy Point Restaurant (Windy Point Lookout, Belair Road, Adelaide).
Kangaroo Island is home to plenty of restaurants. The Ozone Seafront Hotel (The Foreshore, Kingscote, Kangaroo Island) is a great place for views and seafood dishes. The small but intimate Bella Restaurant (54 Dauncey Street, Kingscote, Kangaroo Island) is a must visit, and The Chase Café (442 Cape du Couedic Road, Karatta, Kangaroo Island) is an awesome spot for lunch or dinner, conveniently located at Flinders Chase Visitors Centre.
The Barossa Valley is a renowned wine region, but boasts a remarkable array of restaurants too. The Appellation the Louise (Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga) is a stunning restaurant with fine dining facilities in the heart of the Barossa Valley. Jacob’s Creek Restaurant (Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat, South Australia) combines fine Australian cuisine with the best wine in the country.