Adelaide is a food lover’s paradise. As someone who has visited the city multiple times, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling some of the finest restaurants and discovering local delicacies that truly define this South Australian gem. From award-winning fine dining establishments to hidden street food gems, Adelaide’s culinary scene never fails to impress.
1. Orana: A Journey Through Indigenous Ingredients
My culinary adventure in Adelaide began with a visit to Orana, a restaurant that has garnered national and international acclaim. Helmed by chef Jock Zonfrillo, Orana offers a unique dining experience that showcases native Australian ingredients in a way that’s unlike anything I’ve tasted before.
Walking into the cozy and intimate space, I immediately felt like I was in for something special. The menu at Orana is a journey through Indigenous Australia, where every dish tells a story. The tasting menu, which changes seasonally, features ingredients like finger lime, wattleseed, and green ants—items I had never thought to eat before!
One dish that stood out to me was the “King George whiting,” served with a sauce made from coastal greens and saltbush. The flavors were fresh, vibrant, and distinctly Australian. The delicate balance of native spices and fresh seafood made for an unforgettable meal.
What to expect: A fine dining experience that’s all about celebrating native Australian ingredients.
Tip: Book well in advance, as Orana is highly sought after and seats are limited. It’s on the pricier side, but for a true taste of Australia’s culinary heritage, it’s worth every cent.
2. Africola: A Vibrant African Feast
For a completely different experience, I found myself at Africola, an eclectic and colorful restaurant that combines African flavors with Australian ingredients. From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the lively atmosphere—there’s music, laughter, and the scent of bold spices filling the air.
The menu at Africola is playful and adventurous, with dishes like peri-peri chicken, grilled lamb ribs, and fire-roasted cauliflower stealing the show. I ordered the cauliflower, which is one of their signature dishes, and I wasn’t disappointed. It came charred to perfection, drizzled with tahini, and topped with nuts and herbs. It’s a simple dish, but the smoky flavors and crunchy texture make it something truly special.
What to expect: A lively, bustling atmosphere with a mix of African and Australian flavors.
Tip: The portions are generous, so come hungry! If you’re dining with friends, order a variety of dishes to share—you won’t want to miss out on any of the bold flavors Africola has to offer.
3. Osteria Oggi: Italian Fare in the Heart of Adelaide
As someone who loves Italian food, I couldn’t resist dining at Osteria Oggi, a modern Italian restaurant that has quickly become one of my favorites in Adelaide. Walking into Oggi, I was struck by the sleek, minimalist decor, which feels both inviting and contemporary.
The menu here is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the pasta is made in-house daily. I opted for the pappardelle with slow-cooked lamb ragu, and it was one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the rich, hearty sauce was packed with tender pieces of lamb that melted in my mouth.
To finish off the meal, I couldn’t resist trying their tiramisu, which was a light and fluffy masterpiece. It was the perfect way to end my Italian feast.
What to expect: Sophisticated Italian dining with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta.
Tip: Oggi can get busy, especially on weekends, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation ahead of time.
4. Adelaide Central Market: A Foodie’s Playground
No trip to Adelaide would be complete without a visit to the Adelaide Central Market. As a food lover, I could spend hours wandering through the market, sampling the various local products and chatting with the vendors. This vibrant market is a true reflection of Adelaide’s multicultural food scene, and it’s the perfect place to discover some of the best local delicacies.
One of my go-to stops is the Smelly Cheese Shop, where I’ve indulged in a range of artisanal cheeses. I tried a few local varieties, but the standout was the Barossa Valley Triple Cream Brie—rich, creamy, and absolutely divine.
Another favorite of mine is Lucia’s Fine Foods, where I always grab a slice of their famous pizza. It’s simple, with a thin crust and topped with fresh ingredients like buffalo mozzarella and cherry tomatoes, but it’s bursting with flavor.
What to expect: A bustling market filled with local produce, specialty foods, and artisanal products.
Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the freshest products. Don’t miss out on trying some of the local cheeses and pastries—they’re some of the best I’ve ever had!
5. Gouger Street: A Global Feast
If you’re looking for a place where you can find a variety of international cuisines, look no further than Gouger Street. This vibrant street is home to some of Adelaide’s best restaurants, offering everything from Asian street food to French fine dining.
One of my favorite spots on Gouger Street is Star of Siam, a Thai restaurant that serves up some of the most authentic and flavorful Thai food I’ve ever had outside of Thailand. The pad Thai is my go-to dish—it’s perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness, acidity, and spice.
For something a little different, I also love Gaucho’s, a renowned Argentinian restaurant known for its grilled meats. The steak here is absolutely top-notch, cooked to perfection over a wood-fired grill and served with a variety of sauces and sides.
What to expect: A lively street filled with a mix of casual and fine dining options from around the world.
Tip: Gouger Street is especially popular in the evenings, so it’s a great spot to go for dinner or a late-night bite.
6. Coopers Alehouse: A Taste of South Australia’s Brewing Heritage
If you’re a beer lover like me, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Coopers Alehouse, a pub that celebrates South Australia’s most famous brewery—Coopers. The atmosphere here is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect place to relax with a cold beer after a day of exploring the city.
I tried the Coopers Pale Ale, which is a local favorite, and I immediately understood why it’s so beloved. It’s crisp, refreshing, and pairs perfectly with the pub’s hearty menu. I ordered the fish and chips, which were golden and crispy on the outside, with tender, flaky fish on the inside.
What to expect: A casual pub atmosphere with a focus on local beer and classic pub fare.
Tip: If you’re visiting during the summer months, grab a spot in the beer garden and enjoy your meal outdoors.
7. Vili’s Bakery: Iconic Australian Pies and Pastries
As someone who loves trying local delicacies, I couldn’t leave Adelaide without sampling one of its most iconic treats—the meat pie. Vili’s Bakery is the place to go for a classic Aussie pie, and it’s been a beloved institution in Adelaide for decades.
I opted for the steak and mushroom pie, and it was everything I hoped it would be—flaky, buttery pastry filled with tender chunks of beef and savory mushrooms. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel at home, even if you’re on the other side of the world.
But Vili’s isn’t just about pies—they also have a fantastic selection of pastries. I treated myself to a vanilla slice, and it was pure heaven. The layers of crisp pastry and creamy custard were the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
What to expect: A no-frills bakery offering some of the best pies and pastries in Adelaide.
Tip: Vili’s pies are great for a quick and satisfying meal on the go, but be sure to save room for one of their sweet treats!
8. Local Delicacies: South Australian Oysters and Kangaroo
When in Adelaide, you can’t miss the opportunity to try some of South Australia’s local delicacies, especially the seafood. One of the highlights of my trip was trying freshly shucked oysters from Coffin Bay, which are renowned for their sweet, briny flavor. I enjoyed them at Sean’s Kitchen, a restaurant located in the city center that specializes in fresh, local ingredients.
For a truly Australian experience, I also decided to try kangaroo for the first time. I was a bit hesitant at first, but the dish I had at Press* Food & Wine completely won me over. The kangaroo was lean, tender, and cooked medium-rare, served with a flavorful jus and roasted vegetables. It was unlike any meat I’d had before—slightly gamey, but incredibly rich and satisfying.
What to expect: Fresh seafood and local Australian meats, often served in fine dining establishments.
Tip: If you’re trying kangaroo for the first time, opt for a restaurant where it’s prepared by experienced chefs to ensure the best possible experience.
Adelaide, A Culinary Wonderland
Adelaide is a city that truly has something for everyone when it comes to food. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, street food, or local delicacies, there’s no shortage of incredible culinary experiences to be had. From the bold flavors of Africola to the fresh, vibrant produce at Adelaide Central Market, I found myself falling more in love with the city’s food scene with every bite.
If you’re planning a trip to Adelaide, I can’t recommend these restaurants and local delicacies enough. Each one offers a unique taste of the city, and together, they paint a delicious picture of why Adelaide is quickly becoming one of Australia’s top food destinations.
