When you’re just looking for an uncomplicated night out with a stiff drink and decent grub, a pub is a perfect choice. South Australia’s Adelaide offers plenty of options to choose from. With its coastal location, the picturesque metropolitan hub offers a diversity of selections. We’ve rounded up some of the best pubs Adelaide can offer for your drinking pleasure.
The Scenic Hotel
The Scenic Hotel is nestled in Adelaide’s leafy suburb of Norton Summit. Come here when the weather is nice to enjoy a drink surrounded by local gum trees and wine vines. You’ll find a great selection of local wines and craft beer. The food likewise doesn’t disappoint, offering an array of goodies for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. We recommend the long lunch held Sundays from 12:00 to 7:30 p.m.
The Cumby
The Cumberland Arms Hotel, affectionately known by locals as The Cumby, is a heritage-listed property. Despite its claim to fame, there’s nothing stuffy about this pub. You’ll find that it’s warm, friendly, and cozy, with a welcoming atmosphere that locals and tourists alike can enjoy. On Fridays and Saturdays, expect more of a party vibe thanks to the dance floor. On Sundays, you can chill out to live music. If the sun is out, enjoy your burgers and beer in the sunny garden.
The West Oak
The West Oak is located in the West End of Adelaide, providing a buzzing atmosphere that you can enjoy at any hour of the day. Stop by in the mornings to grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee or stop by in the evening for a beer—you’ll find plenty of local options.
If you’re looking for something more lively, head to the beer garden, where you’ll find an ever-changing lineup of live music. If you overdo the partying, trust the tasty food selection to bring you back to life and keep you energized.
Queens Head
Head to the Queen’s Head if you want to enjoy a drink while soaking up a bit of history. Nestled in North Adelaide, this gorgeous building has a brick facade that hasn’t changed since 1838. Thanks to its nearby location to the Adelaide Oval, it’s the perfect stop after watching a game. You’ll find plenty of local sports fans here during the season and on the weekends. However, this spot isn’t just for a post-game brew. They also offer an award-winning menu.
Stirling Hotel
Here’s another one for the history buffs. The Stirling Hotel is an entire century-old, giving you an authentic taste of old town Adelaide’s pub scene. While the pub has been standing for over 100 years, you won’t notice once you’re inside: The trendy, cosmopolitan interior with its chic design is pleasantly modern. As an added plus, this historic pub caters to diverse tastes, offering both a pizza bar and a fine-dining restaurant.
Sparkke at Whitmore
Sparkke at the Whitmore is well-known among Adelaide locals for its onsite brewery. You’ll find that many of the beers have a socially conscious or environmentally friendly angle, which can make enjoying your drink that much easier. The industrial exterior is contrasted by a warm and inviting interior featuring innovative touches like pink walls and neon decor. However, the best part of the Sparkke, in our opinion, is the rooftop seating.
Wheatsheaf
The Wheatsheaf changed owners in 2003, and since then, this pub has taken off. It’s located in a historic space that’s been revamped for maximum comfort. You’ll find a great selection of boutique spirits, craft brews, and wines, many of them locally produced.
If you like live music, you’ll also be pleased to hear that Wheatsheaf frequently features area musicians, creating a cozy, folksy vibe where you’re sure to feel at home. There isn’t a kitchen onsite, but it’s easy to get grub at the nearby food trucks.
The Exeter
The Exter is an all-rounder, delivering on every point you could want from a pub. Great beer? Check. Live music? Check. Affordable bites? Check. You’ll find sandwiches for as little as ten dollars and plenty of options for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike. Last but not least, if you want a breath of fresh air, head to the beer garden. Set on busy Rundle Street, this venue also wins points for its prime location.
The Gully Public House and Garden
If you’re looking for a pub with a twist, try The Gully Public House and Garden. You’ll find innovative dishes well beyond the typical burgers and beers. Options range from a Thai salad with prawns and pork to chicken curry. The overall ambience is laid-back and casual. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, you won’t be disappointed. The pub is also home to a slightly classier bar, Mr Jones.
The King’s Head
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you can do your part to support the local community if you’re in Adelaide. One easy way to do it? Visiting The King’s Head. This unique pub serves food, brew, and vino that’s sourced only from South Australia. You can feel great knowing you’re helping local producers while also enjoying fresh goods. Enjoy your bites and drinks, and then finish off by trying your hand at some of the in-house board games. You can play for free.
Earl of Leicester
If you want to keep it simple and classic when it comes to your pub visit, the Earl of Leicester was made for you. This picturesque pub is a favourite among locals, and you’ll quickly see why. It’s situated in Parkside and is known for its generous portions, with big beers, giant schnitzels, and big TV screens. We recommend the schnitzels. As a bonus, this pub is also family-friendly, with a seniors menu and a children’s menu.
The Final Word: Best Pubs Adelaide
As you can see, the only problem you’ll have when looking for a drink in Adelaide is narrowing down the options. This list of the best pubs Adelaide offers a tipple to suit every taste. You’re sure to find a spot that suits your style.