The lively capital of South Australia is a vibrant metropolis of 1.4 million people. Adelaide seduces with a gorgeous climate, dynamic arts and culture scene, heritage architecture and lovely beachfront suburbs.

High standards set by world class Barossa Valley wines however, help cement Adelaide’s claim to fame as a notable stop for epicures. City chefs and restaurants, in concert with a phenomenal array of regional farmers and purveyors, consistently cook up serious, quality eats. With that in mind, check out some of the best foodie destinations near quality Adelaide hotels.

The Manse

The Manse is the dean of Adelaide restaurants and a reliable, staple bet for a white linen, upscale restaurant experience in the city. Late 19^th century Victorian digs help drive the refinement home and the degustation menu leans heavily on luxury ingredients like Rangers Valley wagyu, Berkshire pork and Iberico ham.

(Images courtesy of The Manse)

Elephant Walk

On the other end of the spectrum, Elephant Walk in North Adelaide is a funky late-night café. The retro dessert lounge has cushy booths, a popular terrace and a cool, kitschy vibe. A sinful coffee and dessert menu makes Elephant Walk a popular, go-to after-dinner destination.

(Image via Google Street View)

Red Ochre Grill

More restaurants need to emulate Red Ochre Grill’s visionary leitmotif of fresh and local. Chefs Ray Mauger and Dennis Whetstone have a fervid passion for seasonal ingredients and translate that zeal into some of the most progressive contemporary cuisine in Australia. With very few exceptions, Red Ochre Grill’s menu items hail exclusively from local producers. Views of the River Torrens and Adelaide cityscape provide a backdrop fit for the superb restaurant.

(Images by Red Ochre)

Cafe de Vili’s

A 24/7 diner and venerable South Australia icon, Cafe de Vili’s is a popular Mile End hangout east of Richmond Oval. A de facto hot spot for nocturnal shift workers and everyday hungry people, the convivial meat pie institution cranks out delicious, down-home comfort food.

Salt Bar & Restaurant

Glenelg is a scenic suburb a mere 11 km from Adelaide’s Victoria Square. Countless locals and tourists alike flock to the beach-side community’s Salt Bar & Restaurant for exquisite ocean views, stylish decor and top-notch cuisine. Predictably, the menu’s emphasis is on local fish and seafood, with a posh wine bar and gorgeous backdrop in Holdfast Shores Marina to boot.