Jolly good spots for Christmas catch-ups

Last updated 27 Oct, 2025

Kick off your Christmas celebrations in style! Whether you like to head out for drinks or catch up over coffee, here are a few of our top picks to celebrate the festive season.


Brew with a view

Malt Shovel Taphouse, Festival Centre

What better way to enjoy a long summer night than with sweeping views across the Riverbank and Adelaide Oval? Take your pick from their selection of craft beers and sit back to watch the sunset. The crispy fried mushrooms are a must-try if you're feeling peckish!


Laneway brunching

Part Time Lover, Pilgrim Lane

Gather those besties and tuck yourselves away for a leisurely pre-Christmas brunch. For those who prefer to farewell the office with a knock off drink or two, you can celebrate 'til late Monday through Saturday.


For live music lovers

Grace Emily Hotel, 232 Waymouth Street

Live music? Check. Pool table? Check. Monday night BBQs? Check! For a casual hangout in the beer garden or chilling out to live music, the Grace Emily is a must-visit during the summer season.


Sip and shop

East End Cellars, 25 Vardon Avenue 

Part wine shop, part tasting room, this boutique offering in the East End is a wine lovers dream. Whether it be for knock off drinks or some expert advice, this little gem is your go-to. Enjoy a glass or two outside - plus delicious snacks from their menu - after you stock up on Christmas gifts along Rundle Street!


King of the weekend

The Lion Hotel, 161 Melbourne Street

This local watering hole is a crowd favourite. Make the most of the festive season with cricket on the big screen, family weekend brunches, and live entertainment.


A hidden gem

Leigh Street Wine Room, 9 Leigh Street

Don't be fooled by the 'Dry Cleaners' sign out the front, this Leigh Street gem is worthy of the buzz. With shelves brimming with bottles and a signature curved ceiling, every inch lends itself to your Christmas festivities and Instagram snaps. Stay for dinner - an always evolving seasonal menu - and kick on for drinks until late.


For friends and fur babies

General Havelock Hotel, 162 Hutt Street

Fondly known as 'The Havey', it's your go-to for those long pre-Christmas lunches with local pints and all-day dining. If you love to treat your fur baby to weekend outings, the General Havelock is pet-friendly too!


City oasis

Café Troppo, 42 Whitmore Square

This delightful corner café serves up everything you're looking for in a weekend catch up; a delicious seasonal menu, friendly service and plenty of space to soak up the sunshine and green surrounds of Whitmore Square.


Best in the west

West Oak Hotel, 208 Hindley Street

This classic 1830s pub has been restored in recent years to its former glory, ready for you to kick back in the beer garden with Pimm’s on tap. The Jolly Bar upstairs is inspired by the old staff bar at the Royal Adelaide Hospital - just what the doctor ordered for knock off drinks!




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