Wine & Dine at the Best Restaurants in Glenelg

After the perfect date night location? Or perhaps seeking new restaurants by the water to try out?

While there are plenty of foodie hotspots in Adelaide CBD, there’s no need to jump in the car if you’d prefer to stay local. Everything you need can be found right here in Glenelg - Adelaide’s ever-popular beachfront suburb. 

This thriving beach side locale boasts restaurants and bars dripping in both charm and elegance. Whether you're after a fancy Teppanyaki date, in the mood for some fresh oysters and champagne or keen to keep it casual, there’s a venue to suit every palate. 

Shake things up a bit, forgoing your usual spot to book a table at one of the best restaurants in Glenelg. 

Oliveti

This new restaurant in Glenelg strikes the perfect balance between casual and upscale, making it ideal for post-beach bites or romantic date nights. Oliveti is brought to you by the talented team behind Bar Lune, Spread, and Dolly, with a menu that features stellar share plates like hashbrowns with blue swimmer crab and bottarga, gnocco fritto with mortadella, and chargrilled octopus with walnut tarator.

Their pasta selection will keep you coming back, and hearty options like rib-eye with smoked tomato and market fish with arrabiata butter are must-tries, especially paired with Oliveti's well-executed sides.

Sitchu Tip: Don't miss the Chef's Selection for under $80!

43 Broadway, Glenelg

The Colley Hotel

For an unforgettable night out in Glenelg, visit the recently refurbished Colley Hotel, formerly the iconic Jetty Bar. This transformed venue boasts new dining experiences and stunning million-dollar views, making it one of our new go-to restaurants in Glenelg for expertly crafted cocktails and delicious meals.

You'll love the seafood dishes on offer here, from freshly shucked oysters to chargrilled prawns with an Asian twist, alongside the likes of braised pork belly and Thai green curry.

For classic pub fare, try the beef wagyu schnitzel, fish and chips, or spicy chicken burgers. 

28 Jetty Street, Glenelg

Molly's 

Uncover the allure of Molly’s, the new hidden gem tucked away in the Colley Hotel. This intimate space invites you to sip Negronis and Spritz while basking in great company.

Molly's will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast with its delectable Italian fare. Enjoy tender polpette bursting with rich tomato sauce, ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers, artichoke hearts with salsa verde, and Port Lincoln sardines topped with pangretta. The enticing charcuterie selection and an array of pasta and pizza promise to satisfy every craving.

Whether you seek a lively evening or a cosy corner to relax, Molly’s is the perfect new restaurant in Glenelg for delicious times.

Sitchu Tip: Don’t miss their luscious, creamy tiramisu to end your meal on a high note.

28 Jetty Road, Glenelg

Ellenika 

Take fantastic local produce prepared with a whole lot of love, add a top seaside location and a bright and relaxed venue - and you get Ellenika. With its menu of fresh Mediterranean fare made for sharing with friends and family, fanciful cocktails and wines, and a fun and welcoming atmosphere, it's a bright spot on Glenelg's restaurant scene. Make sure to book on a weekend, when the conviviality reaches new heights thanks to the addition of vibrant live music. Opa! 

Marina Pier Lights Landing Holdfast Shores, Shop 6/3 Chappell Drive, Glenelg 

Seafire

Perched on the front of the bustling promenade, Seafire serves up views to match their satisfying menu. A short stroll up from the jetty, this is one of the best restaurants in Glenelg for those after a premium experience. 

Gaze out to the busy marina and across the the bay from the al fresco seating. With a cocktail in hand, we recommend ordering one of their specialty dry-aged steaks, prepared in-house and cooked to perfection. Top with one of the house made butters - herb and garlic, fermented chilli or ‘cowboy’ butter for that extra kick. 

Shop 2, Marina Pier, Glenelg

Nijumaru

Find an all-you-can-eat Japanese haven at Nijumaru. They've got it all: premium sushi, sashimi, hot and cold dishes, and Japanese delicacies freshly made on-site. And here's the best part - it's only $43 per person for unlimited Japanese goodness.

With over 50 mouthwatering dishes, there's something for every palate. It's not just about the food; Nijumaru aims to be one of the best restaurants in Glenelg, offering top-notch service and a contemporary ambiance, plus a fantastic selection of Japanese sake, whisky, and vibrant cocktails to complement your meal. 

20 Jetty Road, Glenelg  

Mediterranean Ristorante

Transport yourself to a sun-kissed European summer at Mediterranean Ristorante in Glenelg. This delightful eatery offers an exclusive menu for coffee, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, making it perfect for any occasion. Tucked away from the bustling main streets, its bright, airy space is ideal for catching up with friends.

With large bifold windows inviting the sunshine inside, start your day with hearty eggs on Turkish bread or a nourishing acai bowl topped with fresh fruits, paired with expertly crafted coffee. At lunch, choose from a first-class selection of pasta and pizza, complemented by sides of haloumi, hummus, prawns, and prosciutto. As evening falls, indulge in authentic Spanish paella, brimming with mussels, prawns, calamari, and chorizo, served in a shareable paella pan. Deliziosa!

2/72 Broadway, Glenelg South

Coast Restaurant

When it comes to location, Coast ranks among the best restaurants in Glenelg. Perched on the foreshore, it’s the ideal spot for alfresco dining on a warm summer day. This modern eatery boasts bright coastal interiors filled with natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, Coast's menu offers everything from casual snacks to hearty indulgences. Savour fresh Coffin Bay oysters and Sicilian sashimi among the raw options, while pasta and seafood dishes abound. For heartier appetites, indulge in confit butternut squash, roast chicken, or a black Angus porterhouse steak. Opt for the ‘feed me’ menu at $65 or $75 per person, letting the Coast team curate a delightful selection just for you.

18 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg

Terra & Sol

Terra & Sol is a certified Glenelg hotspot. Starting as one of Glenelg’s best brunch destinations and growing into a full-service dining experience, it's the perfect spot to perch with friends and while away the hours over cocktails, live music and a tasty feed. 

This architecturally designed bar and restaurant features the kind of pastel-hued interiors usually reserved for Pinterest boards, only adding to the delightful experience. 

Fill up on a lunch of paninis filled with pumpkin, a pulled pork burger or a charred squid salad. Dinnertime starts with charcuterie boards leading up to the likes of lamb shank, salmon, baked gnocchi and rich desserts. Our only advice? Make sure you come hungry!

18 Jetty Road, Glenelg

Junipers on the Marina

Turn the perfect beach day up an extra notch with tapas and gin at Junipers on the Marina! Located in the marina and complete with views across the sparkling waters of the bay, it offers itself as Glenelg’s best restaurant, cocktail bar, entertainment venue and beach club – all in one. Take your time selecting one of the 40 gins on offer to start, with local gins including Seppeltsfield RD, Happenstance, Spiritato, Never Never and Ambleside to name a few. Order up some Spanish small plates to share with the table to keep things interesting. Classic croquettes, chorizo, patatas bravas and albondigas (meatballs) will get the party started - add an extra-large serving of paella while you’re at it!

11/12 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg

Capriccio

A beloved staple in Glenelg's foodie scene, Capriccio Restaurant embodies the essence of traditional Italian dining, making it perfect for a relaxed meal with family and friends. With an Italian-inspired setting adorned with culturally themed décor, the restaurant champions old-fashioned cooking while embracing a modern touch.

Their generous menu features all your favourites, starting with prosciutto e melone, followed by an array of handmade pastas, risottos, and perfectly cooked steaks. Seafood, traditionally prepared veal, and delectable vegetarian options round out the offerings.

10 Sussex Street, Glenelg

The Moseley Bar and Kitchen

The Moseley Bar and Kitchen is the place to be at any time, any day, any season. An ever-evolving events calendar that keeps the good vibes rolling year-round and gives people “a reason to visit Glenelg” – as said by themselves. The menu leans towards pub fare favourites from polished plates of fish and chips, burgers and steak. Wood fired pizzas are perfect for sharing alongside a grazing board of cured meats and cheeses, or a dozen fresh oysters.

The Moseley offers some of Glenelg’s best restaurant experiences throughout the year. Picture waterfront beach clubs inspired by the Amalfi Coast during the summer, with cocktails and seafood plates enjoyed under a parasol. Winter months bring the Moseley Igloos to get cosy in, with special cocktails and food menus, and even a fireplace to keep you warm.

11 Moseley Square, Glenelg

Oyster Bar Holdfast Shores

At Oyster Bar Holdfast Shores, the world truly is your oyster! This Glenelg restaurant offers an extensive selection focused on the ocean’s finest delicacies, making it a standout among the best restaurants in the area.

Savour South Australia’s freshest oysters, with over nine varieties and a tantalising monthly special that’s always worth sampling. From caviar and sour cream to crispy Panko-crumbed oysters, every combination is an adventure. While the oysters steal the show, don’t miss the delectable share plates, featuring cheese, crispy karaage chicken, garlic prawn twists, and mushroom arancini. Come out of your shell and book a spot at this waterfront pearl—your taste buds will thank you!

Shop 10 Marina Pier, Glenelg

Luciano's on the Marina

Luciano's brings a slice of la dolce vita to the restaurants in Glenelg, perfect for those who appreciate bold Tuscan reds and local South Australian whites. Passionate about crafting exceptional Italian cuisine, the team uses the freshest local produce to create dishes that will leave you craving more.

From wood-fired pizzas to fresh gnocchi made from scratch daily, every bite is a celebration of flavour. With stunning waterfront views across the picturesque Marina Pier, we highly recommend booking a table at sunset and indulging in the magic for yourself!

For an unforgettable experience, we recommend booking a table at sunset and indulging in the magic for yourself!

Shop 13-15 Marina Pier, Glenelg

POLK

Modern Asian fusion restaurant POLK is hard to miss, with its large neon sign above the entrance a vibrant invitation. POLK are all about funky cocktails and cute times, bringing bring bold, colourful and punchy flavours to the table. It’s the perfect place to gather, share and enjoy.

Step inside for a menu that spans across breakfast, lunch, dinner and takeaway. Tasty share plates of kingfish sashimi and steamed prawn dumplings will start you off, leading to elaborate mains like kangaroo tataki and creamy yellow curry. Tables of 4+ can opt for the ‘Please feed us’ ($55 per person) or ‘Big feast!’ ($70 per person) menus to let the chefs take control. Stay hydrated with a noteworthy cocktail and wine list - the berry and basil rum sour is a must! 

114 Partridge Street, Glenelg South

Tomiko Japanese  

Sit back and watch your meal come to life at Tomiko Japanese, a must-visit Glenelg restaurant for lovers of quality and authenticity. This vibrant restaurant features a mouth-watering menu of modern teppanyaki and classic Japanese dishes.

Start with sashimi, tempura, and gyoza before diving into a flying feast of expertly prepared teppanyaki. Savour premium cuts like chateaubriand and wagyu, complemented by ebi prawn and Atlantic salmon, all served with miso soup and edamame. For dessert, indulge in mochi, tempura ice cream, or rich double chocolate pudding. If you’re after something special, explore Tomiko’s teppanyaki banquet packages or their enticing a la carte degustation menu with 6, 8, or 10 courses.

7 Holdfast Shores, Marina Pier, Glenelg 

Sammy’s on The Marina

Seekers of the finest seafood dining, look no further than Sammy’s on The Marina. Soak up the 270-degree views of Glenelg Beach and Holdfast Marina as you cruise through their sumptuous menu of incredible seafood. Expect fresher-than-fresh plates of Kangaroo Island lobster, Coffin Bay oysters and South Australian whiting, to name a few.

We recommend getting stuck into a tasting platter packed full of oysters, king prawns, dips and calamari, with a bottle of wine to match all the flavours of the ocean. But if seafood isn't your thing, don't fret. Sammy's menu also boasts an extensive selection of meats, so there’s also a spot at the table for the carnivores in your life. Pile up on dishes of pasta, wagyu steak and lamb, topping it all off with beautifully presented desserts and cocktails. 

1/12 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg

Loving our list of the best restaurants in Glenelg and hungry for more? Get your dinner inspiration and take a tour around the various destinations of Adelaide, from North Adelaide eateries to our favourite dining options in the Adelaide Hills.