A well-curated wine pairing elevates a meal, highlighting flavours in both the dish and the wine. These five venues excel in crafting menus that harmoniously match exceptional cuisine with fine wines, creating memorable experiences for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Wined Bar @ The National Wine Centre – Adelaide CBD, SA
For a sophisticated dining experience in Adelaide, Wined Bar @ The National Wine Centre offers the perfect blend of modern Australian cuisine and expertly curated wine pairings. The sleek interiors, featuring blond wood tables, white subway tiles and racks groaning with premium wines, set the stage for a refined meal.
The pairing options at Wined Bar are a true celebration of South Australia's wine heritage. Dishes like kingfish with buttermilk and chive oil are paired with a crisp sparkling rosé, perfectly complementing the delicate flavours of the fish. For mains, the rich and tender beef cheeks with celeriac purée and gremolata pair beautifully with a bold Shiraz/Tempranillo blend. End your meal with a decadent chocolate brownie and sour cherry compote, matched with a luscious dessert wine. Whether you’re exploring wine tastings or indulging in the full menu, this venue guarantees an elevated experience.
Hunters Quarter – Pokolbin, NSW
Nestled within Pooles Rock Vineyard in the Hunter Valley, Hunters Quarter combines European-inspired dishes with breathtaking views of rolling vineyards. The private terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the beauty of the region.
The menu is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Starters like kangaroo tartare are paired with earthy, herbaceous wines, while mains like hickory-smoked duck breast with cauliflower cream and crimson raisins are complemented by a smooth Pinot Noir or a robust Shiraz. Seafood lovers will adore the fish with bouillabaisse and fondant potato, best enjoyed with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. End your meal on a sweet note with the spiced carrot pudding and caramel pecan mousse, paired with a Hunter Valley dessert wine for the ultimate indulgence.
For a more laid-back yet equally impressive dining experience, head to Grünthal Brew in the Adelaide Hills. This vibrant venue is home to a microbrewery, gin distillery, and winery, offering a diverse range of beverages to complement their Mod Oz menu.
Perfect for casual gatherings or family outings, the venue pairs dishes like char-grilled lamb skewers and peanut satay with their in-house craft beer or Hesketh wine. For something heartier, the smoked brisket pizza topped with caramelised onion, spicy pork mince, and salsa verde pairs exceptionally well with a rich, velvety Shiraz. Finish your meal with their chocolate and bourbon pecan pie, matched with a sweet fortified wine for a touch of indulgence. With its wine flights and tasting experiences, Grünthal Brew offers something for every palate.
Elevating Indian cuisine with global influences and bold wine pairings, Seven Spices is a culinary gem in Lane Cove. The warm, inviting space sets the tone for a memorable dining experience that blends tradition with modern sophistication.
Start with dishes like juicy lamb kebabs paired with a vibrant Shiraz, and move on to the Malabar fish curry, where the creamy coconut and tamarind gravy is perfectly balanced with a crisp Riesling. For dessert, the carrot halwa with pistachio kulfi and a sweet dessert wine ensures a delightful finish. Their signature seven-course tasting menu, crafted by Chef Srini and inspired by Michelin-starred techniques, takes guests on an extraordinary journey. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a family celebration, Seven Spices redefines the art of Indian dining.
Le Pas Sage – Adelaide CBD, SA
French elegance meets modern creativity at Le Pas Sage, a chic bistrot in the heart of Adelaide. Translating to "The Naughty Ones,” this venue challenges traditional perceptions of French cuisine by celebrating diverse flavours and innovative techniques.
The wine-paired menu features classic dishes with a twist, like oven-baked Camembert with honey and thyme, paired with a Chardonnay that enhances the creamy, nutty flavours. The coq au vin, a timeless French classic, is elevated when matched with a full-bodied red wine. For those who enjoy beef, the beef tartare with mustard, capers, and herbs pairs exquisitely with a light Pinot Noir. Finish your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails, designed to complement their refined French fare.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of Indian spices, a fan of French classics, or an admirer of bold Australian flavours, these venues showcase the magic of wine-paired dining. Each location offers a unique experience, seamlessly blending food, wine and ambience to create a meal to remember.
