The chance to dine out all over the world is one of the most enticing experiences afforded to the modern jetsetter. To know a city’s food is to know its culture and the different elements of its personality; you can receive an education from indulgence.

In a multicultural city like Adelaide, the culinary options are almost endless. Here are our recommendations for a gastronomical exploration of South Australia’s capital that you won’t soon forget. Eat, drink, and be merry!

The Grace Establishment, Norwood

For modern Australian dining, you can’t beat The Grace. The décor and atmosphere create a chilled vibe so smooth you just won’t be able to fight it. Wash down the tasty bar snacks with a cocktail either at the bar or in the sunny courtyard, or settle in and dine from the droolworthy restaurant menu. Try the Mini Wagyu Cheeseburger – you won’t regret it.

Laksa House, Central Markets

In keeping with its (charmingly unassuming) name, Laksa House serves up the best laksa in Adelaide, hands down. But that’s not all. Here you’ll find quick, cheap, and flavoursome Malaysian food with no fuss, including the cutely named Dry Ho Fun, which Time Out Adelaide sure does love. Be sure to check out the markets while you’re there – we highly recommend the splendidly titled Smelly Cheese Shop.

The Rising Sun, Kensington

For all you can eat Adelaide has the answer, and this little restaurant hidden away in a cosy converted cottage is certainly one of them. Head here for Mediterranean-influenced modern Australian dishes, or just curl up on a Chesterfield in the bar.

Art Gallery Restaurant, Adelaide

Housed inside the Art Gallery of SA, the Art Gallery Restaurant is the ultimate in sophisticated dining. The regularly updated menu serves classic favourites and fine seasonal meals, with dishes often influenced by current exhibitions.

Vietnam Restaurant, Pennington

The Phan family knows good service and good food, always served with a smile. Head to this award-winning restaurant for fresh and tasty Vietnamese meals to warm the soul. They also offer Chinese dishes for a bit of variety. The signature Barbecued Lemongrass Chilli Quail is an absolute delight, as is the old favourite Beef ‘Pho’.

Hahndorf Inn, Adelaide Hills

You can find every kind of cuisine in Adelaide – Chinese, Indian, Mexican, Brazilian food – but this German restaurant is a real treat. They offer immense servings of yummy comfort food, but their specialty is pork, so you can really go the whole hog. Try the Giant Juicy Pickled Pork Hock (knuckle), or treat yourself to the Chargrilled Ribs, accompanied by a stein of good old German ale.

Vego and Love’n It, Adelaide

You don’t have to be vegetarian to enjoy this CBD institution. Order the Mediterranean Half Burger (all the burger, half the bread) and lounge around in the retro surrounds like a local in the know. Try one of the refreshing shakes and don’t forget to order some of the divine vegan chocolate to top off your meal – you won’t believe it’s not the real thing.