We love a good cocktail and these award-winning bars do not disappoint.
Molly’s Yard:
Hidden down an alley just off Hindley Street you’ll find Molly’s Yard – its owner Adam Norris has turned this former storage shed into a beautiful, vine-covered drinking den with just 5 tall tables and no walls. Dugout from the side of the building, the below-ground cellar is intimate and slightly surreal. The menu is small but well-executed cocktails made by Jack Hughes who was previously at Porteno in Barossa Valley so you know they’re going to be good.
The Bonavista Social Club:
Previously located on Halifax Street, the Bonavista Social Club has moved to larger premises in Payneham bringing with it a bigger bar and all-round better experience. The new venue is classic Americana with loads of old motorcycles, gas lamps, deer heads, and antique furniture dotted around creating a really warm atmosphere.
An established institution in Adelaide’s cocktail scene, the Bonavista creates some of the most amazing drinks you’ll find anywhere. It’s one of those bars where you can order what they’re having or trust them to create something special for you – an open mind will be rewarded!
The Birdcage
Located in Adelaide’s CBD, The Birdcage is a popular haunt for after-work drinks. It’s dimly lit, full of dark nooks and crannies, and abuzz with energy when the place is busy. A good choice if you’re looking for somewhere atmospheric that isn’t too stuffy for a date or just want to grab a casual drink with friends.
The Gin Palace:
A real throwback to earlier times, The Gin Palace on Rundle Street is an old-school bar with its own brewery attached outback. No flashy mixologists here, they do classic cocktails done really well – their G&Ts are especially good!
Kitsch Bar at Hotel Grand Chancellor:
A relatively new addition to the Adelaide scene, this large hotel bar is always busy and has plenty of people spilling out onto the street on weekends. The drinks menu is extensive with everything from cocktails to shots, beers, and wine. If you’re into #shots then this is your place, they have over 50 different kinds!
The Gin Factory:
Located in an old factory down on Rose Street in Hindmarsh Square, The Gin Factory makes a mean martini according to lots of reviewers. Big space inside but lots of nooks and crannies where you can hide away for a quiet drink too if needed. Tables outside are good for people watching or if the weather’s nice try getting there early to bag yourself one of their cute little cabanas.
Hinky Dinks:
Located in the city center, Hinky Dinks is a good bet for after-work drinks or if you want to have dinner and drinks with friends. The cocktails are so-so but they have an impressive selection of rare whiskeys behind the bar. They also do one hell of a cheese board! This place is cozy so booking ahead is advised on the weekend.
Honkytonks:
Hidden away down an alley off Hindley Street (no prizes for guessing what it’s called) this open-air bar has been drawing crowds since its inception – originally run out of a shipping container it now sprawls out into several rooms including a beer garden where live music often plays. In the warmer months, Honkytonks is a lively and upbeat place to hang out.
The Ritz:
Located at the top of Hindley Street above the mall, The Ritz attracts a young, party-going crowd who come for cheap drinks and big beats. During the week it’s a good spot to catch up with friends over some cocktails – head down after work on a Friday for happy hour which runs from 4 pm – 7 pm! Nightclub entry starts at 10 pm but you will need ID even if you don’t plan on going into the club.
The Attic Bar & Grill:
If you’re looking for somewhere in Glenelg then this is your best bet in town. Located in an old house on Holdfast Bay Road, the Attic does a nice line in classic cocktails and is super popular with visitors and locals alike. It gets really busy during summer so be prepared to queue (or book early) if you want to enjoy it’s famous sunset cocktail overlooking Glenelg beach!
The Tapper:
If you’re looking for something different then The Tapper should be at the top of your list! Located in an old public toilet (really!) It started life as a pop-up bar but has since become established as one of Adelaide’s most creative drinking experiences. All sorts of unusual concoctions are served up by their mixologists, who also host events like cocktail-making classes where you get to make your own drinks to take home.
Hotel Manhattan:
Located in a historic sandstone building on Hindley Street, Hotel Manhattan is a classic old-school bar with big leather booths and a gorgeous vintage décor that patrons love. If you’re looking for something more low key then it’s perfect – come here for some fun times instead of trying to cram yourself into the city nightclubs!
The Manhattan Lounge:
One floor up from Hotel Manhattan, this stylish cocktail lounge has been wowing Adelaide drinkers since it opened last year. Subtle lighting and plush furnishings make this a seriously inviting spot which is ideal if you want somewhere quiet or intimate to catch up with friends over drinks. The menu changes seasonally but they have an excellent range of wines and classic cocktails.
Paul’s Bar:
Located on the corner of Hindley and Morphett Streets, Paul’s Bar is a popular drinking hole with office workers who come for lunchtime drinks or to unwind after work. It’s super casual and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for those looking to enjoy kebabs and beers – prices are reasonable too!
Bread & Bone:
Hidden away down an alley off Leigh Street (no prizes for guessing what it’s called) this unique bar has been drawing crowds since its inception – originally run out of a shipping container it now sprawls out into several rooms including a beer garden where live music often plays. In the warmer months, Honkytonks is a lively and upbeat place to hang out.
‘The Brewhouse’:
Another old Adelaide classic tucked away down an alley off Leigh Street, this super-chilled bar is the perfect place to go for a quiet drink after work. Come here for small-batch brews and good vibes – it’s also ideal if you want something low-key or aren’t into bars that are trying hard to be cool!
Adelaide has a lot to offer when it comes to bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for somewhere low-key, we recommend The Brewhouse because of the small-batch brews and relaxed atmosphere. Or if you want something more upbeat then try Honkytonks which is located in an old shipping container that’s now sprawled into several rooms including a beer garden with live music often playing in the warmer months!
After reading this article, if you think you would appreciate some company, you can try out the company of an Adelaide Escort, which you can find on Ivy Societe.