Image: HACHEM
As the Australian Good Food Guide released its Chef Hats for 2026, Adelaide’s top restaurants are revelling in the well-deserved accolades. For the team at The Playford’s Luma Restaurant, the recognition is more than just another award, it’s a huge deal for the crew and a celebration of what they’ve been dedicated to day in, day out.
Awarded a fantastic score of 14, Luma is now officially placed among the top one per cent of restaurants in the country. After a multi-million dollar refurbishment that saw The Playford reopen its doors in 2022, Luma Restaurant has quickly become a favourite not just for those staying upstairs, but for Adelaide locals looking for European dining done right.
Led by Chef Hugh Hazlewood and Food and Beverage Manager Guarav Kapur, the duo have created a venue that’s a love note to Europe with dishes that are built around bold flavours, colours and locally sourced ingredients. Chef Hugh is dedicated to masterfully using classic techniques and contemporary cooking methods, something that helped Luma stand out in the guide. Originally from the Riverland, Hugh started as a kitchen hand at just 15 years old. Ever since, he’s been honing his craft in Adelaide, then England, before returning to his hometown of Renmark in an Executive Chef role. Now calling Luma home base, the techniques he’s developed here and overseas have heavily influenced his style and shine in his cooking.
On the menu, you’ll find South Australian ingredients from Murray River pink salt and Coffin Bay oysters to South Australian Blue Swimmer Crab and Riverland stone fruit. The Mains see this trend continue with dishes like the Coorong Mulloway and Coonawarra Lamb. Dessert rounds out the local menu with sweets and savoury options.
The Australian Good Food Guide awards Chef Hats through an independent judging process, which sees anonymous experienced industry professionals judge venues on a 20-point scale, with Chef Hats awarded to those delivering the very best dining experiences.
For Luma to receive two hats and a score of 14 is incredibly exciting. These awards aren’t just about the chef, but the whole team, from kitchen hands and waiters to those like Hugh and Guarav. It’s a celebration of everyone’s hard work and the dedication that goes into pulling off a fantastic experience for everyone who walks through the doors. “Our team is incredible and capable of achieving greatness,” shared GM Steve Finlayson.
What sets Luma apart is that it’s more than just a restaurant. Whether you find yourself enjoying a coffee and fresh pastry in the morning, a quick lunch, a cocktail after work, or a dinner, Luma is all about making unforgettable experiences, no matter what time of day. Recently, The Playford was also named Australia’s Best Boutique Hotel by the 2025 HM Awards.
With two Chef Hats now to its name and a team-driven ethos at its core, Luma continues to prove that Adelaide’s dining scene belongs on the national stage, delivering polished European style from breakfast through to dinner, right in the heart of the city.
Luma Restaurant
Where: 120 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000
For more information, click here.
For more on the Chef Hat winners, click here.
