We are well and truly spoilt for choice when it comes to bars and restaurants in Adelaide, but sometimes all we’re after is a cute and intimate spot to cosy up in, especially as we move into winter.
We’ve narrowed down 10 venues that showcase the superb quality of South Australian hospitality in a teeny, tiny & tucked away spot – or at least it feels that way.
Yakitori Takumi
Not only does this gem only seat 36 people – and it feels like way less – it’s also the first yakitori izakaya in Australia. Founded in 2004, Yakitori Takumi offers an extensive menu of small dishes in a traditional yakitori setting. Think, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and squid skewers, as well as Japanese classics like takoyaki (octopus balls) and gyoza (dumplings).
The set up has an open kitchen and counter seating so you can watch all the theatrics in the kitchen while you sip on your sake. This place is well-kept secret. It has made quite the impression on hospitality veterans and foodies who often frequent the place, and now you can be one of them.
Where: 60/55 Melbourne St, North Adelaide SA 5006
When: Tuesday to Thursday 6pm – 9:30pm, Friday & Saturday 6pm – 10pm
To find out more, click here.
Sahara Moroccan Casbah
Tucked away in the corner of the city, Sahara Moroccan Casbah is a place that, at first glance, appears to be a humble rug shop. Step inside, however, and you’ll discover the flavours of Morocco, brought to you by owner Ali Arhbal.
It’s a retail-shop turned restaurant, but feels more like you’ve hired a private chef to cook in your eclectic, colourful and character-filled home. Booking this place feels like desperate calls vying for the attention of lovers past – equal parts hope and heartbreak. You have to be persistent, Ali only answers by phone, and will only book you in if he has ample time to prepare your meal from scratch. However, all is forgiven for the incredible hospitality and delicious menu that awaits.
Where: 187 Sturt St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Upon request
To find out more, click here.
Baddog
As it says in bold LED lights, no cocktails. This bar is well and truly an under-the-radar spot that attracts a specific niche. Unassuming from the front, it’s just a door with a LED light and if the light’s on, they’re open. It’s the kind of place you still can’t find even with Google Maps but, the vibe, the music and the hand-picked whiskey collection make it a celebrated spot and a lot of fun. Come and see for yourself, just keep your eyes peeled.
Where: 63 Hyde St, Adelaide SA
When: Monday to Thursday 6pm – 12am, Friday 5pm – 12am & Saturday 7pm – 12am
To find out more, click here.
Bar Bar
Image Credit: Bar Bar
Bar Bar is an intimate 15-seat venue that focuses on agave spirits and good company. When it comes to the cocktail menu, Bar Bar’s attention and expertise is squarely on agave spirits, with tequila and mezcal taking centre stage.
Located on Pirie Street, a stone’s throw from the heart of Adelaide’s dining district, is this teeny tiny cocktail bar that promises to deliver for those of us seeking expertly crafted tequila based drinks.
Where: 78 Pirie Street, Adelaide
When: 3pm – 12am Monday – Saturday
For more information, click here.
Bibliotheca
Nestled in Gresham Street next to its sister bar A Social Undertaking, The Bibliotheca Bar and Book Exchange showcases a larger variety of unique cocktails and whiskey from around the world in a comfortable library-inspired bar. The team at Bibs can even educate you on different Whisky styles and how they are made.
As a quieter small bar destination, Bibs is an ideal place to wind down after a busy day, enjoy a glass of wine and maybe even read a book!
The Bibliotheca Bar and Book Exchange
Where: 27 Gresham Street, Adelaide
When: from 19 October open 7 days
For more information, click here.
Lost Tide | York Peninsula
Tucked away in Stansbury on the beautiful Yorke Peninsula, this micro-distillery serves up premium small-batch gin, liqueurs and vodka with an Australian twist. With only a license for 12 people, it’s as exclusive as a bar can get. All be it tiny, the place remains a popular hotspot all year round, so be sure to book ahead if you’re wanting to pay a visit.
Where: 4a Anzac Parade, Stansbury, Southern Yorke Peninsula 5582
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12pm – 5pm | Private tastings by appointment
To find out more, click here.
Nearly
Trendy, with a cult following, and just a couple of tables inside, spilling out onto the street. Nearly Bar hosts The Weekly Fifty quiz every Wednesday night, but it’s a perfect little local haunt for a knock off, or even better, a fantastic date spot. Plus, you’ll get some fantastic pics in here.
Where: 179 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA
When: Tuesday – Friday 3pm – late
Saturday 4pm – late
For more info, click here.
Bar Peripheral
Labelling itself as “Not for everyone,” this bespoke cockatil bar has only 12 seats, with no standing and no more than 4 people in one group. There’s rules, but if a dark, intimate and quiet bar with drinks specifically tailored to your preferences is what you’re after, this one is for you.
Where: 447 Pulteney St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Monday to Saturday 7pm – 12am
To find out more, click here.
Pink Moon Saloon
Credit: David Sievers
Awarded Gourmet Traveller’s Australian Bar of the Year 2017, Pink Saloon has become an Adelaide institution. The venue nestles itself in what used to be an alleyway, creating an intimate atmosphere with a beautiful courtyard area that, despite its size, feels incredibly spacious.
What it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in flavour. Expect a broad selection of classic and bespoke cocktails, using freshly squeezed juice and made with love. Try the wapple – watermelon, apple and gin – for a great time.
Where: 21 Leigh St, Adelaide SA 5000
When: Tuesday to Thursday 4pm – 11:30pm, Friday & Saturday 4pm – 2am
To find out more, click here.
A Social Undertaking
A Social Undertaking is a small bar with a tongue-in-cheek name that nods to the owners’ background in the funeral industry. Guests can choose from classic cocktails, signature creations, and a broad range of beer, wine and spirits. It’s cosy, small, and perfect to add to your list of tiny bars.
Where: 25 Gresham Street, Adelaide
When: Tue – Thurs 5 – 9pm
Fri – Sat 5pm – 2am
For more info, click here.
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