Adelaide is underrated when it comes to food, but the locals know what’s up. The city has this relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe, but also gets pretty serious about good eats. From fresh market bites to wild modern tasting menus, there’s a lot going on.
You’ve got farmers, winemakers and multicultural eats all bumping up against each other. You’ll find killer coffee and late night noodles just steps from some of Australia’s best fine dining.
If you’re here to eat, you’re going to love it. Here’s where to start on your Adelaide food adventure.
What to Eat in Adelaide
Pie Floater
This one’s classic Adelaide: a beef pie, served upside down in pea soup. It sounds wild but it totally works. You’ll find it at a few bakeries; it’s legit late-night street food.
Portuguese Tart
Obsessed is the only word for how Adelaideans feel about these. Creamy filling, flaky pastry, totally addictive. Grab them fresh at a Portuguese bakery near Central Market.
Goolwa Pipis
Tiny local clams that get served simply with butter and herbs. Super local, and usually found at nicer seafood spots. Try them steamed or flash-fried.
Market Fresh Produce
Adelaide Central Market is the place for local cheeses, cured meats, and drool-worthy fruit. There’s always something surprising in season—talk to the vendors for news on the best stuff.
Banana Blossom Salad
This Southeast Asian dish is a favourite at some of the city’s contemporary hotspots. Think crunchy, fresh, and loaded with herbs.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Adelaide
Adelaide CBD
The city center is where you’ll find everything from super casual late-night pizza to top-tier degustations. It’s a great spot for cafe hopping, wine bars, and markets too. Don’t miss the laneways—lots of street art and last-minute dinner gems.
East End
This leafy part of the city is full of buzz and outdoor terraces, packed with wine bars and modern Australian spots. Rundle Street is the strip for people watching, eating, and ducking into indie shops.
North Adelaide
Pretty, a bit quieter, but great for brunch and boutique bakeries. There are old pubs here with better food than you’d expect, and classic bakery vibes in the mornings.
Bowden
Bowden is just outside the city. Industrial feel, but there are food trucks, hip breweries, and a giant weekly market at Plant 4. Creative food, less touristy crowds, and always something going on.
Port Adelaide
Head out this way for old-school pubs, seafood right from the water, and one of the best authentic Mexican joints in town. Lot of grit and real-deal charm.
Budget Restaurants in Adelaide
Sunny’s Pizza
Lively late-night pizza joint in the CBD. Feels like a house party with DJ sets and cocktails. The charred, wood-fired crusts are a local legend—and prices start low enough for a weekday dinner. @sunnys.pizza
La Popular Taqueria
Best place for handmade tortillas and real Mexican tacos in Port Adelaide. Great for a casual dinner with mates or a taco binge. It’s all packed with flavor, prices are friendly, and they run two-for-one margarita nights. @lapopulartaqueria
Lucia’s Fine Foods
Inside the Central Market—legendary for pasta, wood-oven pizza, and laid-back espresso. The family vibe is strong, and the food is equally hearty. Perfect for a quick lunch on the cheap.
Crown & Anchor
Dive bar vibes with live music and pub eats. It’s cheap, fun, and there’s always something wild happening after dark. Grab a schnitzel and a beer.
Midnight Spaghetti
This upstairs Italian spot starts late and serves until the early hours. Expect pasta, wine, and a cool, laid-back crowd looking for an afterparty feed. Top spot for a midnight snack.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Adelaide
Osteria Oggi
Modern Italian with a big city vibe, perfect for long lunches or dinners with friends. Fresh handmade pasta and a killer wine list. The decor is super stylish, but the staff keep it welcoming. @osteriaoggiadelaide
Aces Pizza
Bright, casual spot in the CBD for killer New York–style pies. Good slices, huge salads, and a steady rotation of specials. Works for dinner with friends or just solo at the bar.
La Louisiane
French bistro with an Aussie twist. Order the steak frites or go for the crème brûlée. Feels like a neighborhood spot but it’s right in the city.
NOLA Adelaide
Soul food and Cajun classics—think fried chicken, smoky ribs, and killer whiskey list. Let the bartenders pick your drink and settle in for a good time.
Part Time Lover
Asian-inspired small plates, craft drinks, and a playful atmosphere. Perfect for a chill date or night out with a few close friends.
Luxury Restaurants in Adelaide
Restaurant Botanic
Incredible tasting menu set inside the gorgeous Botanic Garden. Local ingredients feature from the garden itself, and each dish is a mini adventure. Book way ahead. @restaurantbotanic_adl
d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant
A drive to McLaren Vale but absolutely worth it for a special meal. Vineyard views, superb wine, and creative modern Aussie food.
Chianti
Long-loved fine dining Italian spot in the East End. All white tablecloths and fancy desserts. Service is spot on, and the pasta is one for the bucket list.
Five Regions Restaurant
Menu rotates regionally, showcasing South Australian produce and paired with local wines. Slick, modern setting, and creative plates you’ll remember.
Fino Vino
Farm-to-table-style fine dining that still feels laid back. Great service, great wine list, and the kind of place you want to linger.
Best Coffee Shops in Adelaide
Homeboy Cafe
This spot blew up on social media for a reason. Minimalist interiors, legit coffee, and the pastries are worth skipping breakfast for. The pricing’s standard but you’d pay double in Sydney or Melbourne. @homeboy.coffee
Rustic Gourmet Norwood
Brand new location for a long-loved local brand. Go for the brunch and stay for the spacious, open vibe. Staff are super friendly and it’s solid value for quality coffee.
Elementary Coffee
They roast their own beans and serve up food that’s actually good, not just ‘cafe good.’ Cool crowd and easy for hanging out or working for a while.
Coffee Branch Cafe
Chill little spot on Leigh Street with a reputation for perfect espresso. Tiny tables, laid-back vibe, and the kind of staff who remember your order.
Bonobo Espresso
The indie favorite for take-away. Espresso is their thing, but there’s some sweet vegan bites too.
Markets in Adelaide
Adelaide Central Market
Open since 1869, this spot is a foodie must-do. Massive selection of fresh produce, cheeses, breads and cool little cafes. You’ll want to snack your way around.
Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market
Big Sunday market where local growers and makers come together. The produce is top notch and you’ll find all kinds of seasonal goodies.
Willunga Farmers Market
Worth the short drive for South Australia’s most famous farmers market. Organic produce, artisanal bread, and food trucks—especially fun on a sunny morning.
Adelaide Hills Farmers Market
Small-town charm and a serious focus on local products. You’ll find jams, honey, and the sort of vegetables that actually taste like something.
Plant 4 Bowden
Industrial warehouse with rotating stalls of food, drink, and live music. Huge range of street food every week. Great for a chill browse and snack stop.
Budget Accommodation in Adelaide
Vibe Hotel Adelaide
Central location and solid rooms for the price. Walking distance to the best eats in town. Expect simple but modern amenities, and prices often under AU$120 if you book early.
Adelaide Paringa Hotel
Basic but comfy, right in the city. Super close to Rundle Mall and tons of food options. Clean, cozy, and affordable, especially for solo travelers.
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre
Modern, cheerful rooms and breakfast is included. Walk to Central Market in ten minutes. Good for budget backpackers and couples alike.
The Guesthouse
Chill hostel vibe, shared kitchen, close to Chinatown. It’s the place to meet other travelers with a food focus.
Comfort Hotel Adelaide Meridien
Older but well-reviewed and solid value. Free parking and near the city fringe, so you can escape the action if you want.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Adelaide
Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets
Boutique style with a rooftop bar. Super close to Central Market and solid food options downstairs. Expect friendly service and rates around AU$200-$250.
The Franklin Boutique Hotel
Indie feel and only a short walk to everything in the CBD. Stylish rooms, craft beer bar downstairs, and personal touches.
Mayfair Hotel
Right in the heart of town, surprisingly reasonable rates, great for food-loving travelers. The vibe here is classic but never stuffy.
Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
Known for modern rooms and a super-friendly staff. Walkable to the East End, Rundle Street, and Central Market.
The Playford
Great service, timeless interiors, and a reputation for top breakfasts. Book a garden-facing room if you can. Prices sometimes hit AU$250 but worth it for location and breakfast.
Luxury Accommodation in Adelaide
TRYP by Wyndham Pulteney Street
Sleek and modern, right in the city’s heart. Walk to restaurants, cafes, and markets. Expect top service, big beds, and a new property feel. Rates from AU$250+ most nights.
Sofitel Adelaide
Plush, French-inspired luxury in the CBD. Rooftop pool, spa, and a fine-dining restaurant make this a food lover’s basecamp.
Seascape Lodge
Bit of a splurge, but you’ll be close to the coast and in gourmet heaven. It’s boutique, with epic breakfasts and unreal views.
The Playford (Executive Level)
Upgrade here for suite privileges and a great in-house restaurant. Perfect for special occasions and those who want more space.
Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets (Suites)
Suites give you more space and perks right by the Central Market. Great if you want the best of city life and food just outside your door.
