Ten Shopping Icons and Pubs in Adelaide

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Adelaide may not be as well known for shopping as its neighbouring counterparts, but there are many hidden gems in and around the city sure to satisfy any serious retail therapy. From high-end shopping strips to legendary niche businesses, there is something perfect for everyone.

An Adelaide icon in its own right, the Adelaide Central Market is home to more than 80 traders boasting some of the freshest and most diverse tastes from around the world. Sample quality regional cheeses, flaky French pastries and aromatic coffee as you wander through the twists and turns of the celebrated market, which was established back in 1869.

Head over to Adelaide’s famed Rundle Mall, right in the city centre. On the western entrance you’ll find South Australian iconic chocolatier, Haighs, located in the historic Beehive Corner building. This chocolatier is the only one in Australia that still imports and roasts its own cocoa beans, creating delectable, distinctive chocolate treats.

A little further up the mall you’ll find the beauty hub of Jurlique famed for turning organic herbs from the Adelaide Hills into a range of divine beauty products. Fellas may prefer to take home some merchandise from legendary outback fitter, R.M. Williams. The now famous RM Williams boots were crafted for station workers during the 1930s, before developing into a worldwide business and South Australian icon.

The mall itself boasts more than 800 retail shops, but if it’s a speciality boutique you’re after, travel a little further up to the shopping strip of Rundle Street. Check out Miss Gladys Sym Choon – an icon for generations of Adelaide’s shopping cognoscneti, with a commitment to young Oz designers. Or for some vintage glam, check out Irving Baby on Twin Street, just off of Rundle Mall. This hidden gem is full of rare and unique items from the 60s and today.

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the opportunity to check out Australia’s foremost centre for the design, production, exhibition and sale of work by both established and emerging Australian craft practitioners. The JamFactory features an awe-inspiring collection of art design, glassware and handcrafted jewellery.

Heading out of the city, King William Street is a must-do for those with chic tastes - check out Wild Child for the perfect party number. Or, try Melbourne Street if you’re headed north of Adelaide.

After a day’s worth of shopping, head out to one of Adelaide’s famed wine bars or cocktail lounges. Described as the most elegant wine bar in Adelaide, The Apothecary 1878 boasts an extraordinary range of wines and quality champagnes, complemented with an upmarket menu inspired by Italian cuisine. An historic feel is carried throughout with rich velvet carpet, mahogany cabinets and imported chandeliers.

Hindley Street’s renowned Moskva Vodka Bar boasts three levels and four bars with tempting vodka cocktails of all varieties. From the gorgeous Champagne bar in the ladies powder room, to the Ice & Shot Bar, there’s something to suit all tastes.

Beer enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the world’s best at the Belgian Beer Café on Ebenezer Place – just off Rundle Street. This tucked away beer haven exhibits the unique tastes of Belgium, from Leffe Abbey to artisan beers. Watch the barmen’s Stella Artois pouring ritual as you sit back in the bar’s warm, authentic Belgian atmosphere.

Try your hand at a bit of golf at The Tap Inn, offering a fully automated Driving Range, Simulator Room, and an 18-hole Putting Green. Once you’ve worked up a hunger, head down to the Sand Bunker Beer Garden for the Inn’s renowned 54 types of tapas.

Published 26th Mar 2009

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