Images via Jarred Walker
Quietly nestled along Eden Valley’s main street in the Barossa, among the old-gum trees, the Eden Valley Hotel has been the go-to for locals since it’s establishment in 1866.
In it’s 160 years, it’s been through multiple owners and publicans, all helping continue an essential part of the township’s future. Now, the hotel has gotten a much-needed makeover, with new owners taking the reins and restoring it’s rustic, country charm.
After a decade of running the locally-loved 1918 Bistro and Grill in Tanunda, husband and wife duo, Sid and Tanya King, were up for a brand new adventure. When they saw the hotel was for sale, they took a lunch road trip and instantly felt it’s charming potential.
“Even in its tired state, we could see the bones underneath were good and historic country pub waiting to be brought back to life,” Tanya said.
The duo worked with local tradesmen, JBG Architects in Tanunda and Bishop Builders from Kapunda to help restore the building with care and the new space speaks for itself.
Tanya and Sid knew that if they pulled back the render, a beautiful stone building would reveal itself, and the renovations would be easy from there.
“It was like an unveiling,” Tanya said.
The old blue stone walls have been preserved and remodelled with a rustic charm, the goal being to restore without modernising it beyond recognition.
“It’s a place where people feel instantly comfortable, where the heritage is celebrated and where the community can gather.”
Each piece of furniture tells a new story, most of it being repurposed from marketplace finds, garage sales, side of the road and family.
“We set out to show that just because you can buy brand new things doesn’t mean you have to,” she said. “All our crockery, cutlery and glassware ,we collected from op-shops and family donated us items, it’s a group effort and people are happy to see their things getting a new lease on life, it’s eclectic and intentionally so.”
The new menu is dedicated to the region it sits on, Eden Valley wines and local producers line the bar shelfs and flavours of the kitchen.
“It’s all about showcasing what makes our region special and supporting other small business owners,” Tanya said. “And of course, there’s the usual easy-drinking favourites people already know, we’ve got something for every kind of beer drinker.”
With the 1918 Bistro and Grill head chef, Dion Whitlock, overseeing the pub’s menu, visitors can expect classic country pub food made properly. You won’t see any packet sauces or pre-made meals behind the kitchen door, it’s all honest hearty meals and we’ve been told there’s a few fun twists.
While the 1918 menu is loved, the two venues are intentionally different, with their own identities. Think classic golden schnitzels with toppings galore, seasonal specials and comforting food that feels cooked straight out of a family kitchen.
“That’s what our community loves, and that’s what we’re committed to delivering.”
The Eden Valley Hotel is still a place where everyone is welcome from bike riders, hikers and families to farmers, locals and visitors exploring the region.
“We plan to hold events on a regular basis like our Gather Round event in April, that showcases the beautiful wines of the Eden valley to visitors and celebrates small business,” Tanya said.
The event brings together nine family owned wineries on April 12, for a unique wine tasting experience and this is your offical invite to drop in anytime from 11am to 4.30pm.
“You can come in for a meal, a glass of wine, a coffee or just to sit by the fire or on the deck and enjoy the space.”
There’s no pressure or pretence at the Eden Valley Hotel, it’s a reason to hop in the car, go for a drive, catch up and wind down.
Eden Valley Hotel
When: closed Monday and Tuesday, and open Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00pm to 10:00pm, Friday and Saturday from 12:00pm to 11:00pm, and Sunday from 12:00pm to 7:00pm.
Where: 11 Murray Street, Eden Valley
For more info, click here.
