Adelaide
20 November: After touching down in Adelaide from Doha, I wasted no time in immersing myself in the Australian experience.
Following a swift unpacking session, I ventured out for my inaugural night in the country. My destination: Shobosho, a Japanese restaurant conveniently located a stone's throw away from the Intercontinental Hotel, my accommodation for the next five nights.
Prior to dinner, I made a pit stop at Udaberri, a modest wine bar on Leigh St, where I indulged in a chilled beer, albeit at a steep price. Nevertheless, it served as a prelude to the culinary journey awaiting me at Shobosho.
Despite it being a Monday night, Shobosho buzzed with activity, confirming its reputation as a hotspot. Seated at the bar with a prime view of the kitchen, I eagerly awaited the gastronomic delights to come.
The service was prompt and attentive, with a refreshing glass of Sapporo swiftly quenching my thirst.
Shobosho's concept of Japanese Tapas Bar & Restaurant intrigued me, and I wasted no time in ordering a selection of small plates, including Raw Tuna and Wagyu Tartare, followed by Full Duck Dumplings and Wagyu Kushikayi. Accompanied by a recommended Spanish vintage, each dish surpassed expectations, tantalising my taste buds with exquisite flavours and textures.
As I savour every morsel, I'm reminded that dining is not just about the food but the entire experience. Engaging in lively conversation with fellow patrons and the bartender at Strathmore Hotel, I realised that the memories forged during these moments will endure long after the last bite is savoured.
With the night drawing to a close, I bid farewell to newfound acquaintances, enriched by the exchange of stories and experiences.
21 November: Adjusting to a new city can be both exhilarating and challenging, but with a desire to explore and a determination to embrace the new, every step becomes an adventure.
Adelaide, with its charming blend of history and modernity, welcomed me, offering a perfect canvas for my explorations.
After being cooped up for what felt like an eternity, a brisk walk through the streets of North Adelaide was just what I needed to shake off the stiffness and get back into the rhythm of things. The cool 23-degree weather was a pleasant surprise, although the warning about the strong southern sun echoed in my mind as I lathered on the SPF 50. A peaked or wide brimmed hat is a must.
Elder Park greeted me with its tranquil beauty, leading me across the Adelaide Riverbank Pedestrian Bridge, with the iconic Adelaide Oval standing proudly in the distance, a testament to the city's love for sports.
As I strolled, the melodious chirping of Australian Magpies filled the air, a soundtrack to my journey. Reaching the corner of the park, I paused to admire the statue of Colonel William Light, the visionary founder of Adelaide. His legacy loomed large; his meticulous planning evident in every corner of the city. Standing there, I couldn't help but marvel at his foresight, imagining him atop Montefiore Hill, shaping the future with a pointed finger and unwavering determination.
Continuing my walk down Jeffcott St, I passed by colonial schools and colleges, each steeped in history. Aquinas College, with its noble mission and diverse community, stood out among them, a beacon of education and inclusivity.
Wellington Square beckoned me with its tranquil charm, a fitting tribute to the 1st Duke of Wellington, whose legacy resonated through the city's streets. Fuelled by a much-needed coffee from Fare and Square, I savoured the moment, soaking in the sights and sounds of my new surroundings.
As I returned to my hotel, crossing the Victoria Bridge and tracing my steps along North Terrace, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences that awaited me in this vibrant city. With each day promising new discoveries and connections, Adelaide had already begun to feel like home. And as the evening lights twinkled against the darkening sky, I knew that my journey was just beginning.
As evening descended, I had the pleasure of meeting an old friend for drinks and dinner. Bonding over shared experiences of overcoming cancer, we traded stories and laughter over beers and hearty Australian fare, our friendship deepening with each passing moment.
Here's to the adventures yet to come, and the friendships that make every step worthwhile. Cheers to Adelaide, a city brimming with warmth, history, and endless possibilities.
22 November: Embarking on my morning stroll to the Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Zoo became a delightful exploration through the heart of Adelaide.
The path led me through Elder Park once again, where the solemn presence of the War Memorial on North Terrace served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by South Australians during the First World War.
As I continued my journey, the Botanic Gardens welcomed me with a symphony of bird songs, enveloping me in the tranquillity of nature.
Established in 1857, these lush grounds on North Terrace remain a cherished oasis within the bustling cityscape. Their serene beauty, alongside the adjacent State Herbarium, forms an integral part of the Botanic Gardens of South Australia, a testament to the state's commitment to preserving biodiversity and botanical heritage.
Opting to forego a visit to the zoo, I followed the meandering path along the River Torrens, eventually finding solace at Launders Boathouse Cafe. There, amidst the scenic surroundings, I savoured a rejuvenating cup of flat white and indulged in a delectable BLT on toasted Sour Dough, a perfect respite from my leisurely exploration.
For dinner, a short Uber ride transported me to Arkhe Restaurant on The Parade in Norwood. Starting at Norwood House Pub, I briefly immersed myself in the convivial atmosphere of this Irish establishment before proceeding to Arkhe. Welcomed warmly by a gracious waitress, I settled into the counter seating, eager to witness the culinary magic unfolding in the kitchen.
Opting for a glass of Fabiano Fiancé Sauvignon Blanc as an aperitif, I embarked on a culinary journey that celebrated the flavours of Adelaide. From the Pacific Rock Oysters, sourced from Kangaroo Island, to the Sourdough Crumpet adorned with Bluefin Tuna and Mandarin Kosh, each dish was a symphony of flavours and textures.
For my main course, the Grilled Baby Octopus with Brown Butter Hummus and Chilli Jam stole the spotlight, accompanied by a side of runner beans and roasted potatoes. Paired with another glass of Sauvignon Blanc, it was a gastronomic experience that surpassed all expectations, a fitting conclusion to a day filled with exploration and culinary delights.
23 November: I woke up to rain today, the first time since arriving in Adelaide. Thankfully I arranged a short sightseeing river cruise, to pass time on my penultimate day.
I had noticed the previous day whilst having a coffee in Launders Boathouse Cafe, a cruse go by. This made me investigate more once I returned to my hotel. Apparently, reviver cruises were first established over 90 years ago, and named Popeye. The original Popeye, a 25-foot (7.6 m) boat holding up to 20 passengers, was built for Gordon Stanley Watts, a Gallipoli veteran, by Harold Lounder in 1935 in one of several workshops which were then dotted along the banks of Torrens Lake.
Tony, The boats Captain and proprietor of Popeye was a mass of knowledge. The 45-minute excursion was filled with history of the early Europeans and how the City was shaped by Colonel William Light a former British Army Officer who settled in Adelaide and become the Surveyor General of South Australia.
Dinner that evening was at The Meat & Wine Co on Currie St. The Meat & Wine Co. stands as a culinary gem for connoisseurs of fine dining. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality, it offers a truly unique gastronomic experience in the heart of Adelaide.
With a diverse menu featuring the finest cuts of meat, meticulously prepared and expertly grilled on open fire to perfection, every visit is an indulgence in culinary excellence. Set in an inviting ambiance that blends sophistication with warmth, it’s a haven for steak aficionados seeking more than just a meal.
Impeccable service, an extensive wine list, and an unwavering dedication to the art of steak, make The Meat & Wine Co. a must-visit destination in Adelaide. In short, it’s an akin to Gaucho’s Argentinian Restaurants but with a bit more flair and imagination.
The menu is exhaustive, but I opted for the Scallop Ceviche, followed by the O’Connor Grain Fed 240D 300g fillet with onion rings instead of Chios or potatoes. The Ceviche came in small scallop shells, which I thought was a nice touch. The recommended local glass of Tarrawarra Chardonnay was an excellent match for the zesty dish. The Jim Barry Cabernet Sauvignon Single Vineyard was also a good match to complement the juicy steak.
A friend of mine from London said later the cost was reasonable given the choice of steak and the cost in London would be three times as much.
24 November: Starting my day with a morning exercise routine followed by a leisurely stroll through Adelaide's vibrant streets, I couldn't help but appreciate the city's unique blend of coastal landscapes and hills.
Situated on the Adelaide Plains between the Gulf St. Vincent and the Mount Lofty Ranges, Adelaide boasts a Mediterranean climate ideal for viticulture, contributing to its renowned wine production.
Beyond its natural beauty, Adelaide pulsates with cultural vibrancy. Throughout the year, the city hosts internationally acclaimed festivals like the Adelaide Festival and Fringe Festival, drawing artists and enthusiasts from across the globe.
Moreover, Adelaide stands out as an educational hub, home to prestigious institutions like the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and University of South Australia.
Sports enthusiasts also find solace in Adelaide's fervent sporting culture, especially in Australian Rules Football, cricket, and football. The iconic Adelaide Oval serves as a testament to the city's sporting spirit, hosting various events and concerts.
One cannot overlook Adelaide's lush greenery, with parks like the Adelaide Botanic Garden offering serene retreats amidst urban hustle.
Meanwhile, the city's culinary scene tantalises taste buds with diverse offerings, epitomised by destinations like the Central Market, a haven for food aficionados.
However, my culinary adventure hit a snag at Parwana Afghan Kitchen in Torrensville. Despite the restaurant's local acclaim, my experience fell short of expectations. While the spiced vegetable fritters (Pekowrah) tantalised my palate with their perfect balance of flavours, the Grilled Afghan Lamb (Gosht) left much to be desired. Tough and lacking in taste, it bore little resemblance to grilled lamb and more to boiled mutton. Disappointed, I left without leaving a tip and called an Uber.