East End

The East End is known as the domain of choice for trendsetters. Right in the heart of the city, the neighbourhood is filled with cafes, restaurants, bars and premium shopping. Rundle Street and the surrounding lanes and alleys are South Australia’s beating heart of boutique fashion. The likes of Zimmermann, Aje and M.J. Bale entwined with an eclectic mix of local designers and artisans occupy some of Adelaide’s oldest buildings.

The prestigious East Terrace, overlooking Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka, boasts historic State Heritage listed buildings - including the beautiful former Adelaide Fruit and Produce Exchange that now houses wine bars, upmarket restaurants and eclectic boutiques.

As demand has grown to be amongst the action, contemporary and luxury apartments are filling the area. The University of Adelaide’s main campus and the University of South Australia’s City East campus have also seen the development of student-specific apartment complexes, providing students with unmatched convenience to study and lifestyle destinations.

The great outdoors

The beauty of the East End is the ease of access to some of Adelaide’s best green spaces. Wander through the rose gardens, try your hand at lawn bowls or feed the ducks at the serene Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka Lake before settling in for a barbeque. Look out for John Dowie’s ‘Alice’ statue, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland on the Park’s western boundary.

The iconic Adelaide Botanic Garden offers a slice of serene heaven amidst a busy working day to recharge your batteries or a relaxing outing on a day off. Enrich your knowledge at the Santos Museum of Economic Botany, visit one of the stunning architectural landmarks or simply relax with a walk.

Arts & culture

Urban Cow Studio has been celebrating the talents of local artists for more than 25 years. The space often exhibits the works of over one hundred artists and has an extensive store of unique pieces.

For film enthusiasts, Palace Nova Cinemas feature mainstream movies, arthouse and independent films, and hosts assorted international film festivals. Moviegoers can also indulge in locally sourced wine and cheese at the fully licensed theatre.

Treat yourself

The East End is known for its alfresco dining and progressive culinary experiences. Penny University reimagines old favourites with surprising flavours and fresh produce. Grab something to go on the way to work or pull up a seat outside for a day of people watching.

For those who have more time to indulge, Osteria Oggi is both a culinary and visual delight. The restaurant has received international accolades for its sophisticated Italian fare while the décor snapped up Best Interior Design in the World in 2016.

Africola has deservedly scooped up a stash of awards since opening its doors in 2014. Situated on picturesque East Terrace, the restaurant serves up an African-inspired feast brimming with grilled and smoked meats, veggies, flatbreads, pickles and natural wine. The serves are generous and made to share, so grab your friends and head on over.

An oasis of awesome in the heart of the city, Adelaide’s East End is teeming with style, culture and entertainment. A picturesque neighbourhood, dotted with street art, galleries, boutiques and restaurants, iconic pubs, cafes and chic small bars, it’s where the locals go for their latte or long black.

There are seven precinct groups operating across the city and North Adelaide. Explore the precinct group webpage for the East End and find out more about this amazing part of the city or look at East End Venue Guide to help you decide where you will go for a meal or a drink!