I partied at the best bars in Adelaide till the sun rose!
While Adelaide may seem like a cozy, homey town, there are still plenty of party animals all around the city who make its nightlife fun and unforgettable.
With epic nights spent hopping from bar to bar, I’ve discovered firsthand how much fun Adelaide’s nightlife can be!
Whether you’re looking for your next favorite cocktail or want to dance to tracks that’ll be on repeat in your head, here are the best bars in Adelaide you don’t want to miss!
Memphis Slim’s House of Blues
Address: 22 Gilbert Place Basement Level
Website: https://www.memphisslims.com.au/
Contact Details: https://www.memphisslims.com.au/contact-us
Business Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 5 PM-2 AM
| Facebook reviews score | 5/5 |
| Google reviews score | 4.7/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Score consistency | 4.85/5 |
| Environment | 5/5 |
| – Design and lighting | 5/5 |
| – Cleanliness | 5/5 |
| Food and drinks | 5/5 |
| – Variety | 5/5 |
| – Freshness and flavor | 5/5 |
| Staff | 4/5 |
| Music and entertainment | 5/5 |
Memphis Slim’s House of Blues is a solid spot for jazz and blues nostalgia. From its live music down to its design, the bar has a cool and sophisticated appeal.
It was founded by Jon Di Pinto who also owns the Cry Baby bar nearby. His dedication to the jazz and blues theme shows through details like their pool table, timber decor, and choice of live performers.
The drinks also follow the theme, as most of them are American classics. The Raspberry Mint Julep (a Kentucky Derby classic) was smooth and zesty, while the Cherry Crusta packed a complex punch with its brandy base.
Regarding downsides, however, the place is small and gets packed during peak hours. Also, their staff is a bit slow to respond to requests.
Perfect authentic vibe for blues/jazz
“This has an old world feel while bringing the perfect authentic vibe for blues/jazz musicians to play live.
Staff were very welcoming and provided great knowledge on drink ideas when I couldn’t decide.”
Renee| Google Review
We loved the atmosphere
“Very nice underground bar! We loved the atmosphere and the singer. The bartenders were very friendly and nice. Would go back for more! If you want good blues in Adelaide, here’s the place for you.”
Max| Google Review
Maybe Mae
Website: https://www.maybemae.com/
Address: 15 Peel St
Contact Details: +61 416 498 192
Business Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday, Sunday: 5 PM- 1 AM
- Friday-Saturday: 5 PM-2 AM
| Facebook reviews score | 4.8/5 |
| Google reviews score | 4.5/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 4.65/5 |
| Environment | 5/5 |
| – Design and lighting | 5/5 |
| – Cleanliness | 5/5 |
| Food and drinks | 5/5 |
| – Variety | 5/5 |
| – Freshness and flavor | 5/5 |
| Staff | 5/5 |
| Music and entertainment | 5/5 |
Many friends have recommended Maybe Mae to me particularly because of its intriguing hidden entrance. Nestled between Peel and Leigh Street, the bar features a cleverly designed secret passageway that adds to its charm.
They feature tasteful 1950s decor inspired by the Hollywood star Mae West (hence the name). I love the exquisite green leather booths and brass mirrors, in particular.
As a first-timer, I tried one of their “Hall of Fame” drinks—the Corpse Reviver which had zesty lemon grounded by a botanical triple juniper gin.
On the other hand, my friend had the amazing Pineapple Club with coconut and curacao.
Now, when it comes to the downsides of the bar, one is that their drinks are pricey. Also, the entrance may be hard to find for first-timers.
Good atmosphere, very friendly staffs
“Good atmosphere, very friendly staff. They have good cocktail recommendations too. I really enjoyed my time there.”
Rose| Google Review
Staff have a passion for cocktail making
“Was there on a quiet Sunday evening. Cool design, great cocktails and good music. (Think Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Police). Staff have a passion for cocktail making and left feeling had an experience not only a couple of good quality cocktails. Enjoyed the Super Julius
Dean| Google Review
Mary’s Poppin
Address: 5 Synagogue Pl
Website: https://www.maryspoppin.com/
Contact Details: [email protected]
Business Hours: Friday-Saturday: 9 PM-3 AM
| Google reviews score | 4.6/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Score consistency | 4.6/5 |
| Environment | 5/5 |
| – Design and lighting | 5/5 |
| – Cleanliness | 5/5 |
| Food and drinks | 4/5 |
| – Variety | 4/5 |
| – Freshness and flavor | 4/5 |
| Staff | 5/5 |
| Music and entertainment | 5/5 |
Mary’s Poppin stands out for being the only LGBTQ+ bar in Adelaide. From the colorful disco decor down to the lively music, its atmosphere is fun!
They regularly hold events here like drag shows and gay icon-themed nights. What I particularly find impressive is their careful curation of songs and decor to match each of these, making the events more exciting.
Their drinks are straightforward, featuring classics like mojitos, margaritas, and locally made wines.
It’s easy to unwind here because there’s enough space for moving around even during peak hours.
On the downside, however, their classic selection of drinks lacks original mixes. Also, a minor downside is that they have a strict “No Hen’s Night” policy.
Atmosphere is wonderful especially the dancers and DJ
“I love this place. Went there to celebrate a joint birthday with two of my friends and absolutely loved it. It was my second time there and my best friend’s first time (she loved it). Left the early morning and got to the start of my 31st, I felt safe there and that is saying something since I have anxiety and trust issues. The atmosphere is wonderful, especially the dancers and DJ. So worth going here!”
Melissa| Google Review
Songs were so well selected!
“I went to the NYE party (with Vanjie and Kane Enable, Alison Xpress and Ms Furr), it was amazing!!! The DJ Stacy Queen was living, the songs were so well selected!!! Loved it!!!! We will definitely be back!!!”
Michael| Google Review
Wax Bar
Website: https://waxbar.club/
Address: Frank’s Lane
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Wednesday-Saturday: 6 PM-2 AM
| Google reviews score | 3.8/5 |
| Total reviews | 4/5 |
| Score consistency | 3.8/5 |
| Environment | 5/5 |
| – Design and lighting | 5/5 |
| – Cleanliness | 5/5 |
| Food and drinks | 5/5 |
| – Variety | 5/5 |
| – Freshness and flavor | 5/5 |
| Staff | 4/5 |
| Music and entertainment | 5/5 |
Built for music appreciation, Wax Bar is for enthusiasts of disco, funk, soul, and house. The bar’s concept comes to life with minimalist design, ambient lighting, and ample lounge space. Their top-tier audio system also lets me fully enjoy the groovy vinyl tunes, especially the deep bass lines.
Their drink menu is well-thought-out, creatively split into “Side One” and “Side Two”. My favorite was the Watermelon Paloma. The tequila wonderfully blended with the tropical flavors of watermelon and grapefruit.
When it comes to downsides, however, one is that their queuing lines are long. Some also found their servers slow to respond to requests.
The cocktails were good
“Drinks were very tasty and reasonably priced.
I didn’t buy any food.
Staff were very friendly and provided excellent service.
Very nice view of the street from the balcony.
Will be going back.”
Liam| Google Review
Fun music and great cocktails
“Love Wax bar for a good night out with fun music and great cocktails. Love the vibe this place gives off, a Gem 🫶”
Skye| Google Review
Bank Street Social
Website: http://www.bankstreetsocial.com.au/
Address: 48 Hindley St
Contact Details: +61 8 7080 9800
Operating Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 5 PM-1 AM
- Friday-Saturday: 5 PM-3:30 AM
- Sunday: 6 PM-1 AM
| Facebook reviews score | 4.5/5 |
| Google reviews score | 4.4/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 4.45/5 |
| Environment | 5/5 |
| – Design and lighting | 5/5 |
| – Cleanliness | 5/5 |
| Food and drinks | 5/5 |
| – Variety | 5/5 |
| – Freshness and flavor | 5/5 |
| Staff | 4/5 |
| Music and entertainment | 5/5 |
Bank Street Social has a notable New York-themed interior brought to life by timber decor, exposed bricks, and intimate lighting. I felt very at ease here thanks to this atmosphere.
Founded by Shaun Campbell and Simon Orders, the bar was built with a New York aesthetic and the goal of serving authentic South Australian food.
I especially saw the latter with their well-crafted menu that includes many award-winning wines and pizzas featuring local produce. Their portions are filling, and the prices aren’t bad either.
That said, they’ve received complaints for rude service. Also, the bar gets easily crowded during peak hours.
What a great atmosphere!
“What a great atmosphere! This underground gem is a treasure trove with a huge selection of spirits, cocktails, wine, and delicious pizza. Will need to come back at least a few times to try more of their selections!”
Mitchell| Google Review
Staff are knowledgeable
“So glad to have found this place on a short visit to Adelaide. Staff are knowledgeable and so friendly. Delicious cocktails, and the halloumi fries are definitely worth a special mention! It’s a fine balance between music volume, lighting, etc. to create a great atmosphere, but Bank Street Social have nailed it. Thank you!”
Bianca| Google Review
