Jacqui Lim is a passionate advocate for the food and wine industry, known for connecting people through great food. Whether she’s organising events, recommending restaurants, or sharing her experiences on Instagram at @jacquisfoodfetish, Jacqui brings people together one meal at a time. Follow her for a taste of Australia’s best dining experiences.
Magill Estate Kitchen
Smaller $12 – $38, Pastas and Mains $36 – $78, Steaks $54 – $220, Tasting Menu $125
In April, Magill Estate Kitchen (MEK, the sibling of fine-diner Magill Estate Restaurant) reopened with a fresh look, a new menu, and an elevated sense of sophistication. While the food, service, and wines are all top-tier, the atmosphere remains relaxed and approachable. Enjoy deli-style food in the mornings, bistro dining for lunch, and dinners on the weekend. The Wagyu Chateaubriand is exceptional, and let’s hope the Scallop Sausage in Taiwanese bread is here to stay.
78 Penfold Rd, Magill
Taikunthi
Snacks and smaller $10 – $21, Larger $24 – $30
Located within the state heritage-listed Union House at the University of Adelaide, Taikunthi is a sophisticated yet relaxed dining destination. Open on weekdays for breakfast, lunch, and drinks, it offers contemporary Australian cuisine with a focus on local produce and quality South Australian wines – all at very reasonable prices. Grab a coffee, have breakfast, enjoy a long lunch, or graze on charcuterie with a vino. It’s the perfect place to relax solo, catch up with friends or have a business meeting.
Level 5, Union House, University of Adelaide
Yolk Cafe
Breakfast/Brunch $8 – $33
Yolk is the place for a satisfying brunch/lunch and it’s always pumping. The food is consistently good, with generous serves, great coffee, fresh juices, and even a cheeky espresso martini. The favourite on my last visit was the Rice Kimchi Scramble – Fried rice with scrambled eggs topped with kimchi, spring onion and furikake – of course, you have to add the beautifully done, succulent fried chicken! Oh, and don’t forget to order a bowl of truffle fries!!
42 North East Road, Walkerville
Tarantino’s
Starters $12 – $34, Pasta and Mains $39 – $290
Tarantino’s is a vibrant addition to Adelaide’s East End, bringing a fun, New York-Italian bar and grill vibe. The food is seriously delicious. Don’t skimp on the snacks as they’re tasty must-haves, and the handmade pastas are equally impressive. If that’s not enough to satisfy, there’s a selection of wood-grilled mains including some hefty steaks to share. The drinks list features classic cocktails and a solid selection of Italian varietals to round things out.
30 Vardon Avenue, Adelaide
Mensa
Snacks, Smaller $6 – $35, Larger $28 – $145
Suburban eatery Mensa in Kent Town is championing Italian cuisine, delivering a mix of traditional and modern dishes. The menu reads so well you’ll want to order just about everything on it. Of course, you simply must order a pasta dish or two – the pasta is made fresh in-house, as is the ciabatta. The restaurant itself is simple yet stylish, with a casual vibe and warm, friendly service. I’m already planning a return visit for the orecchiette with chicken livers.
44 The Parade West, Kent Town
