A common saying is “East is East and West is West and never the twain shall meet.” But, the fact that this is even an idiom says a lot about our fractious relationship with the world around us.
Fusion cuisine calls for passionate experimentation, but also a thorough understanding of which ingredients pair best with each other. This is what researchers call “gastro-anomy.”
Asian
Whether they’re filled with cabbage and shrimp, doused in soy sauce or fried to golden perfection, dumplings are a crowd favourite. Now you can get your fix at Adelaide’s newest dumpling dealer, Oriental Dumpling King. Located on Rundle Street, the new restaurant specialises in a range of different flavour-infused dumplings. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and sour pork, salt and pepper beef or a more traditional boiled version, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
The team behind popular Henley Beach eatery Gondola Gondola are bringing their skills to the city with Blue Rose, which is set to open in July. Taking over the former 50SixOne site, the new restaurant will feature a strong Vietnamese influence but also include Chinese and Taiwanese dishes to create a modern fusion menu. The team are known for their incredible cocktails as well, which will be a highlight of the new venue.
Gouger Street is becoming a hub of Asian cuisine with the arrival of Pho Nguyen. The new restaurant is the first strictly northern Vietnamese venue in the city, and will use recipes that have been passed down through generations. The food is expected to be delicious, and will be another great option for those who love authentic and healthy Vietnamese food.
Another exciting addition to the Asian scene in Adelaide is Kiin, which opened in the city centre earlier this year. The new restaurant is the brainchild of local restaurateurs Ben Bertei and David Wickwar. The name translates to “eat” in Thai, and the menu is inspired by the pair’s travels across Asia. The venue’s sleek interior is complemented by bespoke shelving that showcases traditional Thai implements.
Those who love to explore the diverse food and wine cultures of Australia will be pleased to hear that Luciano has returned to the Adelaide dining scene after a lengthy hiatus. The luxurious Marina restaurant has reopened with a new look and new menu, but it still boasts the same quality that made it famous. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. The new menu is slightly more streamlined, but it’s full of classic dishes like the house-made gnocchetti with South Australian crab, tomato, and chilli.
European
Australia’s food culture has long borrowed from the cultures of Europe. However, recent waves of immigration from Asia, Africa, South America and the Mediterranean have greatly influenced the way Australians cook and eat. The fusion of these diverse cuisines is creating new, interesting flavors and textures for our palates to enjoy.
Iconic Australian take-away foods include meat pies, sausage rolls and pasties, Chiko Rolls and dim sims. These are typically found at milk bars, bakeries and petrol stations where they can be kept hot in pie warmers or microwaved. These and other foods that need to be deep fried are commonly served at fish and chip shops.
Kiin, which opened late last year in the CBD, is the collaboration of sommelier David Wickwar (of Melbourne’s Vaporetto wine bar) and chef Ben Bertei. The menu playfully crosses Thai flavours with Western techniques, while retaining the balance of salty, spicy, sweet and sour that is so fundamental to authentic Thai cooking.
The restaurant is located in a former railway station, which features domed ceilings and original train ticket booths. The building was converted into a restaurant, with the interior designed by local designer Adrian Condina. The design of the space is elegant and modern, while also being cosy and comfortable. The use of natural materials and colours is key to the restaurant’s aesthetic.
Guests can expect fresh, healthy and tasty food at Kiin, which is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxing evening out. They can choose from a selection of delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts. The menu has something for everyone, including vegetarians.
Another great dining option in Adelaide is Peel St, a rustic eatery that combines East and West with French refinement. This new addition to the Adelaide culinary scene has already received many positive reviews. The menu is full of robust flavors, and the dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is also known for its unique drinks and cocktails.
Middle Eastern
In the heart of Beulah Park you’ll find Bar Lune. This lone neighbourhood bar that doubles as an eatery has a moody vibe with dark blue accents, terrazzo benches and wooden furnishings. A smashing wine and cocktail list accompanies punchy, modern plates with licks from the charcoal grill. Think crab soldiers with chilli crisp and bottarga, cacio e pepe reginette with truffle, chorizo and morcilla with hot mustard and pickled daikon, scallops with verjus and salted grapes and grilled market fish with yuzu kosho.
An exciting, ever-changing menu brimming with robust flavours awaits diners at Peel St restaurant. This rustic dining destination oozes charm with exposed brick, a vibrant wall mural and Edison drop globes, while on balmy SA days take to the new alfresco area.
One of Adelaide’s best traditional Neapolitan pizzerias, Umaii is vastly different to ‘quick sushi’ stores. Using local and ethically-sourced produce, this sophisticated eatery championed nose-to-tail cooking back when it was still a novel concept. A dedication to Australian wines and sharp, convivial service complete the picture.
Chef Duncan Welgemoed hails from South Africa and his colourful diner is a celebration of the country’s cuisine. A large fire pit in the kitchen sizzles a range of ‘bush meats’ such as boerewors, venison and wood roasted hearts while dishes like the lamb tagine with prunes, almonds and couscous are also popular.
The newest addition to Adelaide’s burgeoning Vietnamese food scene is Miss Five Vietnamese. Set to open in Virginia this summer, owners Trang and Leanne are bringing the city’s beautiful suburb a fusion restaurant that blends Western and Asian influences. Expect to feast on dishes such as crispy fried eggplant with sichuan chilli oil and tofu mayo, and grilled pork ribs with gia vi salad and vinegared onions.
Daughter In Law restaurateur Jessi Singh has a restaurant in Melbourne and Byron Bay, and now the coveted spot is in his hometown of Adelaide. This fusion restaurant is as colourful as its name suggests, serving up an array of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. A must try dish is the chicken 65 (south Indian style) which comes with a spice level of your choice.
American
If you’re looking for a place to eat Western food in Adelaide, you should visit Pierre Street. This restaurant offers delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner for the whole family. It also serves fresh fruit salad, which is great for a healthy snack or dessert. The menu is quite affordable, and the staff is very friendly. It also has a great selection of cocktails and beers.
If fusion cuisine is your thing, try the new Latin American restaurant in Rundle Street called Hispanic Mechanic. The chef-owners are passionate about their national cuisine and want to share it with the people of Adelaide. They also offer a curated wine list and locally brewed beer. The cuisine is a mix of traditional Spanish dishes and South American cuisine.
Hispanic Mechanic is located near the downtown core of Adelaide and was opened about a year ago. The restaurant combines traditional Mexican and Latin American foods with a little Korean fusion. The menu has some interesting combinations that make it stand out from other restaurants in the area.
The interior of the restaurant is very charming, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. The restaurant is open until late, and the prices are very reasonable. There are plenty of options for vegetarians and gluten-free eaters. The restaurant is perfect for a night out with friends.
In the heart of the city, the InterContinental Adelaide offers an array of fine dining restaurants and cocktail bars. The hotel’s restaurants feature local and international cuisine. They offer a wide variety of appetizers, main courses and desserts. It is also possible to order delivery from the hotels.
The InterContinental Adelaide is home to some of the finest restaurants in Australia. Their chefs are expert at combining different cultural flavours to create a unique culinary experience for their guests. The hotel’s restaurants are renowned for their excellent service and quality ingredients. The restaurants are a must-visit for anyone interested in enjoying fine dining in Adelaide.