SA Readers’ Choice Award-winners that Are a Feast for the Senses

South Australia’s dining scene is a feast for the senses where passion, produce and place come together in unforgettable harmony.

From the heart of Adelaide to the rolling vineyards of the Barossa and Clare Valley, Chefs craft dishes that speak of the land and its stories. Think fire-kissed kangaroo in a city laneway, or delicate oysters paired with crisp Riesling overlooking coastal cliffs.

Celebrated restaurants like Restaurant Botanic and Hentley Farm capture global attention, while hidden gems and new openings keep locals excited. Every meal here is more than food - it’s a taste of South Australia’s soul.

Here is a snapshot of delicious Readers’ Choice Award-winning dining destinations in South Australia to put on your radar, as voted by you!

L’Anse French Café in Port Lincoln is a chic, light-filled space exuding modern French café style. The interior features soft wood tones, clean lines, a glass-fronted pastry kitchen and a relaxed yet polished atmosphere ideal for breakfast, brunch or lunch.

 

Guests can savour buttery, flaky croissants made via a three-day fermentation process for depth and texture - often lauded as among South Australia’s finest. The menu shifts regularly, but highlights include miso scrambled eggs with Parmesan on a croissant, citrus togarashi avocado toast with feta, yuzu honey dressing and nori salt and a Cajun chicken burger on house focaccia.

Beach Road Winery & Restaurant in McLaren?Vale is a relaxed, family-friendly cellar door and dining destination nestled amid sweeping vineyard vistas. The ambience is warm and welcoming, with charming indoor and shaded outdoor seating among the vines - ideal for slow, scenic lunches or special gatherings.

 

Starters like housemade arancini on tzatziki with rocket and Parmesan set the tone, followed by rustic, wood-fired Italian-style pizzas - try the Beach Supreme with salami, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, olives, mozzarella and parsley on a tomato base – or Italian pork sausage, caramelised onion, mozzarella and chilli flakes.

Those seeking authentic Chinese flavours and classic dishes in Mount Gambier head down Commercial Street to find Golden Chopsticks. A traditional vibe awaits with communal and cosy tables set with white cloths, timber floors and red accents setting the scene for lingering over a memorable meal with someone special.

Begin with appetising starters like sesame prawns, or housemade spring rolls and dipping sauce, before Chef’s specials such as Cantonese steak in plum sauce with sides of steamed rice and mixed vegetables. Sweet and sour chicken never disappoints with its classic combination of flavours, or delve into Chinese roast pork with oyster sauce and vegetables.

L.Law Hyde Park, situated on King William Road in Adelaide’s Hyde Park, offers a refined yet relaxed Asian fusion dining experience in South Australia. The interior is stylish and inviting, with gleaming marble bar surfaces, warm orange leather chairs, curated wine shelves and fun Art Deco artwork that gives the space a boutique gallery feel.

 

The menu is imaginative and health-conscious, delivering modern Asian flavour with Aussie flair. Signature dishes include the Sarawak laksa with pulled chicken, prawns, bean sprouts, egg, shallots, spring onion, bean curd and rice noodles; or the crispy pork belly rice bowl with bok choy, cucumber, bean sprouts, cherry tomato, soy and chilli sauce. 

Established in 1974, Nino’s of Victor Harbor is famed across not only kilometres, but also generations. For many, no trip to Victor Harbor seaside would be complete without visiting this simple, modern family restaurant, which caters for all tastes and occasions – weddings included. Knowledgeable, long-standing staff ensure diners are well looked after while Owner/Chef Simon Pitman keeps them well fed with meals made fresh to order using local produce. 

 

Though prize-winning pizzas are Nino’s trademark, there’s also a superb choice of salads, seafood, pasta, steaks and desserts. Think choices like spaghetti with prawns, calamari, mussels, garlic, chilli, Napoli sauce and fresh herbs.

In the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, The Original Coopers Alehouse offers a vibrant pub experience steeped in tradition and local flavour. With its historic charm, timber interiors and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a casual catch-up or hearty meal.

 

Known for showcasing Coopers brews on tap, the Alehouse pairs its drinks with a generous menu of pub classics and modern favourites - think Coopers Pale Ale-battered fish and chips, dry-aged steaks and towering burgers. Whether you're settling in for a game on the big screens or enjoying a relaxed dinner in the beer garden, the Alehouse delivers true South Australian hospitality.

Bringing a bold fusion of Thai and Western flavours to Thebarton, TingLish is a vibrant eatery where contemporary design meets street-style energy. Warm timber, colourful murals and industrial accents set the scene for a casual yet dynamic dining experience.

 

The menu is a creative collision of cultures - think red duck curry with coconut milk, pineapple, cherry tomato and lychees, or delve into slow-cooked beef massaman curry with potato, carrots and roasted peanuts. Whether you're here for brunch or dinner, TingLish offers an adventurous twist on familiar favourites in a lively, urban atmosphere.

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Fullarton, Noi Vietnamese Eatery delivers a modern twist on traditional Vietnamese dining. The space is stylish and inviting, blending earthy tones with minimalist decor and warm lighting to create a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere.

 

Guests can expect vibrant, flavour-packed dishes made to share - think spring rolls and garlic fish sauce to start, followed by twice-cooked pork belly with sticky tamarind glaze and green apple salad. From casual lunches to leisurely dinners, Noi offers a welcoming space where tradition meets innovation on every plate.