Adelaide might not always be the first city that pops into your mind when you think of Australia’s foodie hotspots, but trust me—this place is packed with incredible eats.
From cozy hidden gems to high-end dining spots, Adelaide’s restaurant scene is buzzing with flavor, creativity, and downright deliciousness.
Whether you’re a local looking for new spots or a traveler ready to indulge, this guide has got you covered.
Ready to dive into the best restaurants in Adelaide? Buckle up, because we’re about to take your taste buds on a wild ride.
From sizzling steakhouses to plant-based paradises, this list has something for everyone. Get hungry, because Adelaide’s culinary game is strong—and you won’t want to miss out.
1. Africola – Bold Flavors & Unforgettable Vibes
If you’re craving something loud, proud, and packed with flavor, Africola is where it’s at. This place isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
Think smoky, spice-loaded African-inspired dishes that’ll make your taste buds dance. The charred eggplant with tahini is a must-try, and if you’re into heat, their peri-peri chicken will knock your socks off.
The vibe here? Electric. The open kitchen, neon lights, and thumping beats make it feel like a party. And the best part? Even vegans get love here, with dishes like the roasted cauliflower with harissa stealing the show.
If you want a meal that’s as exciting as a night out, Africola is one of the best restaurants in Adelaide to hit up.
2. Osteria Oggi – Italian Comfort Food Done Right
Pasta lovers, rejoice—Osteria Oggi is serving up some of the freshest, silkiest pasta in town. This place nails that rustic Italian charm with its arched brick ceilings and warm, inviting atmosphere.
The handmade ricotta cavatelli? Absolute perfection. And if you’re all about that truffle life, their truffle-infused dishes will have you swooning.
But it’s not just about pasta. Their wood-fired meats and seasonal veggie dishes are next-level delicious.
Whether you’re craving a creamy risotto or a crispy wood-fired pizza, Osteria Oggi delivers. Pro tip: Save room for their tiramisu—it’s legendary.
3. Shōbōsho – Fire, Smoke & Next-Level Japanese BBQ
Ever had Japanese food that makes you go, “Wow, I need more of this ASAP”? That’s Shōboshō for you. This place is all about open flames, smoky flavors, and bold tastes.
Their robata grill churns out insanely good skewers, from juicy chicken thigh to melt-in-your-mouth wagyu.
But the real star? The kingfish sashimi with finger lime—it’s so fresh, it practically sings. And if you’re veggie? No worries. Their grilled mushrooms and miso-glazed eggplant are flavor bombs.
With its sleek, moody vibe, Shōboshō is easily one of the coolest restaurants in Adelaide.
4. Peel St. – A Flavor-Packed Adventure
Peel St. is the kind of spot where every bite is a surprise. The menu? A globetrotting mix of Asian, Middle Eastern, and modern Aussie flavors.
The betel leaf with smoked trout is a bite-sized explosion of taste, and their twice-cooked duck? Pure magic.
What’s awesome here is how they balance bold flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients.
The green papaya salad is zesty and crunchy, while the crispy pork hock (for meat lovers) is fall-apart tender. Small plates, big flavors—Peel St. nails it.
5. Arkhé – Fire & Flavor in Every Bite
If you’re into open-fire cooking, Arkhé is your new obsession. This place takes “farm-to-table” to a whole new level, with smoky, charred goodness in every dish.
The sourdough with cultured butter is simple but mind-blowing, and their dry-aged duck with plum? Chef’s kiss.
The vibe is intimate and stylish, perfect for a date night or a fancy dinner with friends. And with a killer selection of veggie dishes (hello, coal-grilled carrots!), everyone leaves happy.
Arkhé is easily one of the best restaurants in Adelaide for flame-kissed perfection.
6. Press Food & Wine – Modern Aussie Elegance
for a sleek, sophisticated spot that nails modern Australian cuisine? Press Food & Wine is your go-to. This place is all about seasonal, locally sourced ingredients turned into edible art.
Their slow-cooked lamb shoulder is fall-off-the-bone tender, and the sourdough with house-made butter? Yeah, you’ll be fighting for the last bite.
The vibe is upscale but relaxed—perfect for a fancy dinner that doesn’t feel stuffy. And with a killer wine list (though we won’t dive into that), it’s a top-tier choice for food lovers in Adelaide.
7. Parwana Afghan Kitchen – Heartwarming & Flavorful
Ever tried Afghan food? If not, Parwana Afghan Kitchen will make you wonder why you waited so long. This family-run gem serves up rich, aromatic dishes that taste like a hug from grandma.
The kabuli pulao (slow-cooked lamb with rice and caramelized carrots) is legendary, and their eggplant borani is a creamy, spiced dream.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with colorful decor that makes you feel right at home. Pro tip: Save room for the cardamom-infused rice pudding—it’s the perfect sweet finish.
8. Sunny’s Pizza – The Coolest Slice in Town
Pizza purists, listen up—Sunny’s Pizza is serving up some of the best wood-fired, blistered-crust pies in Adelaide. The dough? Perfectly chewy.
The toppings? Fresh and inventive. Try the Margherita with buffalo mozzarella for a classic done right, or go wild with the potato and rosemary pizza (trust us, it works).
The vibe here is funky and laid-back, with retro neon signs and a buzzing open kitchen. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a slice to go, Sunny’s is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
9. Leigh Street Wine Room – Cozy & Classy Small Plates
Tucked away in a charming laneway, Leigh Street Wine Room is all about intimate vibes and bold flavors.
The menu is small but mighty, with dishes like braised octopus with nduja and roasted heirloom carrots with whipped feta stealing the show.
The space is moody and romantic, with dim lighting and exposed brick—ideal for a date night or a classy catch-up with friends. Even without diving into the drinks, the food alone makes this one of Adelaide’s best restaurants.
10. Etica – Pizza & Pasta, Plant-Based Heaven
Who says vegan food can’t be indulgent? Etica proves that plant-based eating is anything but boring.
Their wood-fired pizzas (yes, vegan!) are crispy, cheesy (thanks to nut-based “mozzarella”), and loaded with fresh toppings. The cashew ricotta ravioli? Creamy, herby, and downright addictive.
The vibe is casual and eco-chic, with a focus on sustainability. Even hardcore meat lovers leave impressed—this place is a game-changer for vegan dining in Adelaide.
11. Golden Boy – Thai Food with a Modern Twist
If you love Thai flavors but want something a little fancier than your local takeout, Golden Boy delivers.
Think massaman curry with slow-braised beef and crispy barramundi with green mango salad—each dish is a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
The setting is stylish yet relaxed, with lush greenery and warm lighting. Whether you’re sharing plates or going all-in on a feast, Golden Boy is one of Adelaide’s best spots for Thai cuisine.
12. Fugazzi – Retro Glam & Italian-American Comfort
Step into Fugazzi, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a 1950s New York supper club.
The menu? A fun, elevated take on Italian-American classics. Their vodka rigatoni is rich, creamy, and impossible to resist, while the eggplant parmigiana is crispy, cheesy perfection.
The vibe is glamorous and playful, with velvet booths and vintage decor. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to dress up just a little—because the food deserves it.
13. Udaberri – Basque-Inspired Bites & Big Flavors
Udaberri brings the vibrant flavors of Spain’s Basque Country to Adelaide. Their pintxos (small snacks) are perfect for sharing—think jamón croquettes and grated tomato toast.
For something heartier, the seared scallops with black pudding are a must.
The space is cozy and rustic, with exposed brick and warm lighting. It’s the perfect spot for a long, leisurely meal with friends—just don’t forget to save room for churros!
14. Nido Bar & Pasta – Fresh, Handmade & Full of Soul
Nido is all about simple, soulful Italian food done right. Their hand-rolled pappardelle with slow-cooked beef ragù is the stuff of dreams, and the burrata with heirloom tomatoes is so fresh, it tastes like summer.
The vibe? Chilled and welcoming, with an open kitchen where you can watch the pasta magic happen. If you’re after authentic Italian flavors in Adelaide, Nido is a winner.
15. Soi 38 – Thai Street Food in a Hidden Gem
Tucked away in a basement, Soi 38 feels like a secret Bangkok eatery. The boat noodles are rich, fragrant, and packed with tender beef, while the crispy pork belly with green beans is a flavor explosion.
The setting is no-frills but full of character, with Thai pop art and communal tables. If you’re craving real-deal Thai street food, this is the spot.
16. Restaurant Botanic – A Gourmet Escape in Adelaide’s Green Heart
Tucked inside the lush Adelaide Botanic Garden, Restaurant Botanic isn’t just a meal—it’s a culinary journey through South Australia’s seasons.
This award-winning spot takes “garden-to-plate” to a whole new level, with dishes crafted from hyper-local ingredients, many plucked straight from the surrounding gardens.
The tasting menu is where the magic happens—think smoked kangaroo with native pepperberry or foraged mushrooms with fermented celeriac. Even the herbs and edible flowers on your plate were likely growing just steps away.
The vibe? Elegant but earthy, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel like you’re dining in the treetops.
Final Bite
Adelaide’s food scene is bursting with flavor, creativity, and downright deliciousness.
Whether you’re craving smoky BBQ, handmade pasta, or vibrant vegan eats, this city has it all. Don’t just take our word for it—get out there and taste it for yourself!
Which spot will you try first? Drop your pick in the comments, and let’s keep the foodie conversation going. Happy eating!