Vineyard Views & Gourmet Feasts: Pairing Food & Wine in Adelaide

Adelaide is a haven for food and wine lovers. Strategically located in South Australia, the city boasts many flavours, spirits, and sceneries to celebrate good taste. From the quaint and romantic beachfront dining in Fleurieu Peninsula to the vibrant and colourful Adelaide Central Market, to the picturesque vineyard town of Mclaren Vale perfect for wine tasting, everyone will be in for some serious treats.

As one of the world’s Wine Capitals, South Australia houses some of the best vineyards. But wine is not the only thing this town offers. The culinary scene is a melting pot of different cultures, and the gastronomic journeys range from flourishing restaurants to bustling food markets and festivals. If gourmet food and wine tasting experience is what you are after, then you will always have choices in this town, too. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the best vineyard views and gourmet feasts to pair food and wine in Adelaide.

Adelaide’s Winery Scene

As said earlier, Adelaide is home to some of the best wine regions in the world. Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, and McLaren Vale are some of the short-drive-away options. Each region has its own signature wine and unique charm.

• Adelaide Hills – this region is home to crisp Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, perfect for white wine lovers.

• Barossa Valley – this region boasts their bold Shiraz, a must-see for those who love red wine.

Here is how you can pair food and wine in Adelaide’s gourmet scene.

Adelaide Hills Wine Region

The Chardonnay in Adelaide Hills is loved for its fresh and zesty profile, which makes it an excellent pairing for seafood. The acidity of the white wine beautifully cuts the rich flavours of prawns, oysters, and scallops, making for a refreshing and well-balanced experience.

Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard

166 Harris Road, Lenswood SA

This restaurant, located on Harris Road, Lenswood, offers an enviable view. It has a rustic, barn-like vibe and a wide timber deck, allowing diners to admire the gorgeous valley landscape as they sip their wines and feast on mouth-watering dishes. Guests can also enjoy their food on the split-level patio in warmer weather or by the fireplace during colder seasons.

Sidewood Estate Cellar Door & Restaurant

6 River Road, Hahndorf SA

This restaurant on the River Road is nestled among the eucalyptus and landscape gardens. It offers hand-crafted wines and a delectable food selection. Diners are greeted by the jet-black-cladded exterior and gable-roofed Hahndorf, which includes warm caramel leather banquettes with stone flooring.

In terms of their wine selection, this place samples award-winning wines that are expertly paired with their Mad Oz menu, which features lobster brioche, dill and gin-cured salmon, and more. Their seasonal menu highlights include the chermoula chicken, blue swimmer crab linguine, and Wagyu carpaccio.

Pike and Joyce Restaurant

Pike & Joyce Wines, 730 Mawson Road, Lenswood, SA

Pike & Joyce Restaurant lets you indulge your senses with wine and dining offerings. Strategically located on top of the hill in Mawson Road in Lenswood, this restaurant features a panoramic view of the Onkaparinga Valley through its full glass frontage.

Regarding its food and wine selection, this place boasts an award-winning Chardonnay and ever-changing dishes from its chef. Diners can relax, enjoy food and drinks on the balcony, and soak in the picturesque view of the 25-acre vineyard. This place is also known for its crisp-skin duck breast, which is an absolute must-try.

Barossa Valley Wine Region

Shiraz from Barossa Valley is known for its rich, full-blooded flavours. The wine’s robust flavour makes it the perfect match for the smoky, tender flavour of barbecue lamb.

St Hugo Restaurant

2141 Barossa Valley Way, Rowland Flat, SA

For an immersive sensory experience, check out St Hugo Restaurant. Nestled right at the center of Barossa Valley, this place features a captivating overlooking view of the vineyard. The restaurant itself pays tribute to the legendary winemaker Hugo Gramp as it houses its wine collection in a beautiful exposed brick, recycled timber, and arched windows interior design.

Built in 1850, the courtyard offers a perfect escape for a lazy afternoon of tasting estate wine. The restaurant’s menu is known for its Tasmanian lamb, crab tortellini, scallion rosti, and spring vegetables, which are all best paired with a glass of its very own Shiraz-Cabernet.

Orleana

68 Kingsford Road, Kingsford SA

For an ultimate luxury experience, check out Orleana on Kingsford Road. Diners will enjoy their delicious meals and world-class wines in a candlelit dinner at the historic cellar with an earthy and time-worn ambiance.

Adelaide’s Restaurant Scene Must-Try List for Wine-Lovers

Africola

4 East Terrace, Adelaide, SA

This place plays funky music on the stereo, which is only fitting for its colorful arts on the walls. In terms of dining experience, the restaurant takes casual to the next level as it features a mix of Australian and African (as its name suggests) cuisine. Its small (but hard-hitting) menu hits all the spot for a flavorful experience.

Africola’s signature crispy chicken sandwich is a must-try. They also feature a mouthwatering array of meat and vegetarian dishes.

Jeannie Wine Bar

7 Peel St, Adelaide, SA

The charming Jeannie Wine Bar is tucked into busy and lively streets in the heart of Adelaide’s Central Business District (CBD). It offers more than 250 bottles of carefully selected wines, 25 of which are available by the glass.

This bar and restaurant have the perfect balance of local and international wines, offering a diverse flavor for local and international diners.

Bar Torino

158 Hutt St, Adelaide SA

If you are looking for a classy and laid-back atmosphere, you need to check out this restaurant on Hutt Street, just outside the main city. Surrounded by colonial-era stone buildings and chic eateries, Bar Torino takes you back to the old days with its European Tavern vibe. Their wine collection is also quite diverse, offering both local and international selections.

Final Thoughts

Adelaide offers the perfect combination of gourmet feasts and world-class wines, making it a haven for wine and food lovers. If you are visiting South Australia soon, make sure to check out these places and get the best experience of delicious food, good drinks, and beautiful scenery.