Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Leïa Roques, Pexels
Adelaide's bar scene is a testament to its evolution, with a vibrant array of small, quality-focused venues nestled within its city laneways and offering diverse experiences from intimate speakeasies to panoramic rooftop settings.
Entertainment and Music:
Adelaide presents a vibrant and diverse music and entertainment scene, fitting its designation as a UNESCO City of Music.
The city offers an array of live music experiences, with venues such as The Gov consistently hosting diverse local and international acts. For a more intimate setting, Jive provides a platform for various artists and DJs. Visitors can also find genre-specific venues like NOLA Adelaide, which offers a New Orleans-inspired atmosphere with live jazz.
1. Maybe Mae
Type: Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
Tucked away between Peel and Leigh Streets, Maybe Mae offers a refined and intimate atmosphere. Upon entering through discreet timber doors, you find a dimly lit, art-deco inspired space with attentive table service. The cocktail list is imaginative, showcasing seasonal ingredients and thoughtful flavour combinations. It is a perfect spot for a sophisticated evening.
Getting There: Maybe Mae is centrally located in the CBD, making it easily accessible on foot from most city accommodations and attractions.
2. Leigh Street Wine Room
Type: Wine Bar
Within the heart of the west-end CBD, this wine bar is a tall, narrow space featuring an iconic arched ceiling, rich textures, and a blend of wine-themed art. It carries a European feel, reminiscent of intimate bars in Paris or Rome. The focus is on natural wines, with an extensive list of over 400 selections, and the venue offers simple yet elevated food to complement the drinks.
Getting There: Positioned on Leigh Street, this venue is within easy walking distance for anyone exploring Adelaide's central business district.
3. 2KW Bar and Restaurant
Type: Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Perched eight floors above King William Street, 2KW offers sweeping panoramic views of Adelaide's skyline, stretching from North Terrace to the Adelaide Hills. The outdoor terrace is a main attraction, providing a chic setting for drinks with comfortable lounge seating. Beyond the views, it features an extensive beverage list, including a notable wine selection and a range of cocktails, complemented by a menu of seasonal and local dishes.
Getting There: Located centrally on King William Street, 2KW is a short walk from many central city points.
4. Pastel Wine Bar
Type: Wine Bar
Situated on O'Connell Street in North Adelaide, Pastel Wine Bar provides a cool and relaxed ambiance. It features exposed brick and a display of wine bottles that contribute to its inviting feel. The wine selection prioritizes local and small producers, catering to various preferences, and often includes live jazz, creating a comfortable space to enjoy quality drops.
Getting There: Pastel Wine Bar is located in North Adelaide. It can be reached via the free City Connector bus (Route 98A or 98C), which loops around the CBD and North Adelaide daily. Alternatively, a taxi from the CBD to North Adelaide typically costs between AU$9 and AU$11 and takes approximately 3 minutes.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
