The 22 Best Pubs In Adelaide For a Purse-friendly Feast

Adelaide is home to many fine dining restaurants and buzzing bars, but when casual catch ups are on the agenda you can’t beat a good old-fashioned pub. 

Whether you're in the mood to rug up and tuck into a hearty meal by the fire, sip on spritzes as the sun shines down, or catch up for a quick after-work drink and make the most of happy hour, Adelaide's well-rounded selection of watering holes has you covered. From laid-back suburban institutions to sunny seaside bistros, these are the best pubs in Adelaide.

The Austral Hotel

The Austral Hotel is somewhat of a hub for a bunch of different things unfurling in Adelaide's CBD. There's steak nights, quiz nights, a student club and even art exhibitions occurring at this local favourite, making it the beating heart of the city. Here, you'll find all your classic pub fare, plus a pretty delicious nut sundae on the dessert menu.

205 Rundle St, Adelaide

Mismatch Brewing Adelaide

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays so that they can brew up a storm, Mismatch Brewing Co is one of the best pubs in Adelaide by far. Their simple philosophy? Serving up delicious, elevated pub grub so their patrons can experience a dimple yet tasty meal. They use locally sourced ingredients to help support South Australian farmers, and pick only the best quality produce for you to enjoy. Plus, they have meal deals on every single night, from $8 pints to $15 jugs and margherita pizzas.

317 Morphett Street, Adelaide

The Exeter Hotel

They say don't fix something if it ain't broke, right? Well, that's exactly the mentality The Exeter Hotel has adopted - and it's worked out great for them. Established in 1929, this Adelaide pub hasn't been renovated or altered to bring it into the 21st century. Instead, it remains as it has always looked, giving its visitors a blast to the past. You don't come here to watch the footy or play at the Pokies. Instead, share a beer or wine with a group of friends as you catch up in the welcoming beer garden. Plus, they're open from 11.00am until late every single day (except Christmas), so whether you're feeling some brunch or want to satisfy a late-night craving, you'll be able to do so here.

246 Rundle Street, Adelaide

The Stag Public House

The Stag Public House is the perfect place to go with a group of friends if you want to catch up while also enjoying some entertainment...and delicious food. Sometimes, you simply can't go past some 'classic pub grub', as they like to call it at The Stag. Whether you want a juicy burger or succulent steak, you're guaranteed a good feed here. Plus, with live music every Friday, the atmosphere and vibes are immaculate.

299 Rundle Street, Adelaide

The Cumberland Arms Hotel

A well-loved local institution, 'The Cumby' is a rite of passage to most Adelaideans, with many a late night of dancing with friends in the books. Not just a popular spot for a late night boogie, The Cumby happens to dish up delicious meals, with elevated pub grub on offer like a fried Korean chicken burger, barbecued lamb shoulder and beer battered garfish and chips. With the TV's always playing national and international sports games, plus several dining rooms and casual indoor and alfresco areas to choose from, there's always a good time waiting.

205 Waymouth Street, Adelaide

Parkside Hotel

Known originally as the Fountain Inn Hotel, Parkside Hotel is a refined local pub where Adelaide's best produce reigns supreme. Expect a modern approach to Australian pub food that's perfect for healthy vegetarian dishes, hearty hangover feasts and fussy kids alike. Go for pub classics, elevated snacks and entrees and wood fired pizzas, accompanied by local wines, tap beers and classic cocktails. Bright and fresh interiors from a beautiful renovation will help you to relax, while the friendly and attentive staff will keep you coming back to this suburban pub for more. Did we mention there's an outdoor terrace too?

142 Glen Osmond Road, Parkside

The Unley

When it comes to rooftops, you can't go past The Unley. Open from early morning to late at night, this light and airy pub boasts a kitchen, bar, gaming room and glorious rooftop. Feast on mac and cheese croquettes and halloumi chips alongside classic pub favourites, pizzas and restaurant style-meals. If you’re feeling extra peckish opt for The Unley Roast or a juicy steak and settle in for good times at one of the best pubs in Adelaide. 

27 Unley Road, Parkside

The West Oak

There's no shortage of good vibes at this charming pub in Adelaide's West End, which serves up heritage and history in a funky vibrant setting. Slinging locally brewed beers by night and freshly brewed coffee from their coffee window on Fenn Place by day, The West Oak isn't your classic pub. Their outdoor beer garden hosts an epic lineup of live music acts, there are schnitzel specials on Thursdays, and their electric atmosphere brings people back time and time again. Oh! and the menu packed full of fresh dishes with a modern Australian twist is just a bonus, right?

208 Hindley Street, Adelaide

The Gully Public House

Found in Tea Tree Gully, the historic Gully Public House has long been captivating patrons with charm and a fabulous atmosphere. We're telling you now - this is no ordinary pub grub, though it does come complete with weeknight specials and daily happy hours. In true Adelaide style, an additional Happy Hour runs from siren to siren during Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide AFL games.

Dine on their garden menu which features dishes like salt and pepper squid and pulled pork nachos, or for something simple, stick to the pub classics or a pizza. Once your bellies are full and you're all gossiped out, take it up a notch by popping into the charming Mr Jones Bar that sits nestled amidst this vibrant pub, with DJ’s bringing the tunes on weekends.

1349 North East Road, Adelaide

Yellow Matter Brewing

While this one is labelled as a microbrewery, there was just no way we could leave this female-owned, incredibly aesthetic venue off the list of the best pubs in Adelaide. Considering it’s a perfect place to enjoy a crisp and refreshing beer, we feel Yellow Matter Brewing is just as good as any other pub in Adelaide – plus it looks really cute. If beer isn’t your thing, you can opt for a wine for the curated wine list, or choose a non-alcoholic beverage, while tasty pizzas will keep the hunger at bay.

Only recently opened in Brooklyn Park and close to sister venue Karma and Crow, visit soon to enjoy $15 pizzas and $6 pints Monday to Thursday, from 12-3pm. Oh, and did we mention there’s a pool table and dogs are welcome? We rest our case.

108 Marion Road, Brooklyn Park

Brighton Metro Hotel

Everyone’s favourite feature of the Brighton Metro Hotel has made its long-awaited return – the All You Can Eat Buffet at Charli’s Diner! Starting from just $29.95 for lunch and better than ever before, it’s no wonder locals were hanging out waiting for this to once again fill their tummies. If you’re not quite ravenous enough for a buffet, or you simply just want a place to enjoy a relaxed drink with mates, then head the beer garden or sports bar for good times, all afternoon. The Brighton Metro has been serving the locals for 175 years, and with a recent revamp under its belt, it’s fair to say this will be sticking around for years to come as one of the best pubs in Adelaide.

466 Brighton Road, Brighton

The Lion Hotel

A place for any occasion, The Lion Hotel is a go-to hangout that constantly buzzes with local activity. Starting their day with casual brekkie feeds, the atmosphere turns up a notch come nightfall, with many flooding to their restaurant for a hearty pub meal followed by a session at the bar or bustling dance floor. The garden bar is the spot to be for sports fans to catch a game of AFL, rugby or cricket on the big screen, and the tables and chairs scattered outside are packed and buzzing each weekend. For something a little more fancy-pants, The Lion offers several chic and private spaces for everything from corporate cocktail functions to intimate celebrations. 

161 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide 

The Kentish

Tucked away in one of North Adelaide’s charming leafy streets is The Kentish gastro pub. This neighbourhood watering hole caters to every occasion – there’s an outdoor courtyard and front tables for sunnier days, a front bar, and a wonderfully spacious ‘The Wine Shed’ restaurant area for winter. We recommend starting with a couple of their sharing plates, which include everything from chicken wings to popcorn cauliflower, then moving on to a pub staples such as nachos, burgers, bangers and mash and crispy schnitzels.

23 Stanley Street, North Adelaide

The Brompton Hotel

Freshly renovated and fabulous as ever, The Brompton Hotel is another gem in the suburbs of Brompton and Bowden. Decked out with stylish checkerboard walls, light timber accents and marble tabletops, it's the perfect backdrop for a long Saturday social session. Pick between their welcoming light and airy bar area, classy restaurant space or suntrap courtyard for drinks and excellent food options. The Brompton Hotel's bar menu offers lighter bites including steak frites and king prawn roll, while the restaurant’s larger menu includes pork loin and ocean trout. For some crunchy chicken Kyiv, be sure to book in for the special offer on Thursdays. 

5 First Street, Brompton

The Brickmakers Arms

Recently renovated The Brickmakers Arms in Brompton has all the makings of an exceptional local pub. The new fit out includes bright and airy interiors, it boasts a great selection of local beers, and it has a hearty menu that covers classic Australian dishes and filling eats from Asia. Tuck into buttermilk popcorn chicken or fish tacos for a snack, or go all out and order the roasted pork belly with potato, carrots, red wine jus and apple compote. Because the best pubs in Adelaide need something extra special to sweeten the deal – there’s a promising looking beer garden under construction just in time for summer.

36 Chief Street, Brompton

The Port Admiral

A pub in Adelaide with a focus on community, inclusivity...and gluten-free dishes? We love to see it! Say hello to The Port Admiral, where a warm and welcoming atmosphere allows you to leave your cares and stresses at the door. Looking for a pint and relaxed atmosphere to have a conversation with a friend? This is the place to do it. Or maybe you're simply wanting to read a book in peace, or to settle in for a weekend steak, burger and parmy lunch with the family. Whatever you need, The Port Admiral admirably provides. 

You'll love the balcony and beer garden, spending time under the vines on the pavement out front and pulling up a pew at the bar and saying ‘cheers’ to the end of a long week.  

55 Commercial Road, Port Adelaide 

Palais Hotel

Where the sun is often shining, the cocktails are always pouring and the live music is always going, eat by the sea at beachfront hotel Palais Hotel in Semaphore. Wine and dine at the seaside bistro and be spoiled for choice with octopus carpaccio, fresh South Australian oysters, PFC (Palais Fried Chicken), roast pork and arancini. Continue the fun outside in the outdoor garden that is well equipped all year round to enjoy the unbeatable combination of ocean views and live music.

86 Esplanade, Semaphore

The Birkenhead Tavern 

The Birkenhead Tavern is a legendary spot along the scenic Port River, just across from the Port Adelaide Docks. Established in 1878, this gem has witnessed the passage of time with upgrades and renovations while preserving its historical charm. The Birk is celebrated for its delectable, family-friendly menu offerings that won't break the bank, from fish and chips and salt and pepper squid to scotch fillet and porterhouse. Whether you're dining in the bistro, sipping at the Riverview Bar, or lounging on the all-weather deck with a view of the river, you're in for a treat. Keep your eyes peeled for the local dolphins, known to put on impromptu shows while you dine or enjoy a drink. 

3-7 Riverview Street, Birkenhead 

The Crafers Hotel

Experience a slice of Adelaide history at The Crafers Hotel, which was one of the city's very first pubs. Just 20 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD, you can enjoy their bistro style food for lunch and dinner, and even stay for a night or two on site. Choose between The Crafers Hotel's bar and hotel menus, packed with sharing plates including Smoky Bay oysters and French onion soup, and generously sized mains like the warming autumn ratatouille and duck breast, pressed lamb shoulder or a classic steak frites.

8 Main Street, Crafers

The Uraidla Hotel

A sign hanging off the balcony states that this is Uraidla's best pub and brings in intrigued patrons eager to find out just what they will discover. Once inside, you'll indeed find one of the best pubs in Adelaide known for its mouth-watering food and extensive craft beer selection. The perfect hang out in winter, perch yourself next to a fireplace and spend the afternoon sipping away. If you're feeling a little adventurous be sure to ask for a tour of their tank cellar. Take your time browsing and sipping your way through the extensive and fancy wine collections that can be enjoyed on site in what was once a water tank, since converted into a 4000-bottle capacity wine cellar.

1198 Greenhill Road, Uraidla

The Scenic Hotel

As the name would suggest, The Scenic Hotel sits perched atop Adelaide in the lush suburb of Norton Summit, with the breathtaking scenery taking center stage. Nestled amid the rich tapestry of South Australian gum trees, wineries and local flora and fauna, this friendly watering hole is a favourite among locals. Their swoon-worthy location is topped off by a crafty wine and beer list, an intriguing food menu boasting local produce and a carefree and relaxed space. Dine outdoors under the canopy of fairy lights and trees for an unforgettable experience in nature.

Old Norton Summit Road, Norton Summit

The Old Mill

Located on the Main Street of historic Hahndorf, The Old Mill sure is hard to miss and absolutely worth the drive out from the city. Built in 1854 as a steam mill to service farmers, it is now a hotel that sits as a subtle reminder of the rich heritage Hahndorf hosts. Boasting an excellent a la carte menu that features locally sourced produce, the Old Mill’s Brasserie and Heritage Room dining areas fill the experience with old world charm. You may find yourself having a little too much fun, so why not make a night out of it and stay at the Old Mill's adjoining hotel. 

98 Main Street, Hahndorf

Toured all of the best pubs in Adelaide and ready for more? Take the weekend touring some of Adelaide's best wine regions, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating road trip on some of Adelaide's best day trips.