This was published 4 years ago
Where to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Barossa: Chef Adam Swanson
Salami sandwich.
THE EXPERT
Adelaide-born Adam Swanson is a Trafalgar ambassador, chef at some of South Australia's top restaurants and owner of Cheeky Chook Eats in Lockleys. He is also a regular on TV shows such as Ready Steady Cook, Everyday Gourmet and Open Homes Australia. He is an avid traveller with Trafalgar and will host a trip with them through Italy this month. See trafalgar.com
BREAKFAST
The Farm Eatery offers "great local produce, cooked simply and very tasty".
A must is to visit the Apex Bakery, its wood-fired ovens haven't gone out in almost 100 years and it's a family-run business. Their breads are unbelievable, in particular the ciabatta. Oh my, it's just perfect. Every time I stop in, I have to bring a loaf home for my mum. Also, if you've got a sweet tooth, try the traditional German bee sting: two pieces of sponge filled with a rich cream and honey. Oh, and flaked almonds on top – just delicious. See apexbakery.com.au
SNACK
I love swinging into Steiny's for a cheeky stick of traditional German mettwurst, my fave being the red gum and Mallee hot-smoked pepperoni. This accompanied with a nice cold beer, some Barossa Valley Cheese Co curd and a loaf of Apex ciabatta is my ideal snack. See steinys.com.au
LUNCH
This venue is perfect for a sunny or rainy day: The Farm Eatery, which is part of the Maggie Beer grounds but run by her daughter, Elli. Great local produce, cooked simply and very tasty. I love the wood-fired pizza oven, which is located outside, so on a nice warm arvo you can sit back and enjoy a glass of rose and a wood-fired pizza. It makes me feel like I'm back in Italy. See thefarmeatery.com
DINNER
For a special dinner experience, fermentAsian is my go-to. The food here is to die for and the owners are amazing people. The one dish I have to order is the thit lon cuon la lot: fresh betel leaves with sticky caramelised Barossa Hampshire pork. Sticky, crunchy pork belly on a savoury betel leaf with spicy, salty notes is just perfect. Also, have a look at the wine list; it's out of this world. See fermentasian.com.au
FOR THE ROAD
Most people who visit the Barossa, stay in Adelaide as it's a quick hour's drive out of the CBD. If you're looking to pre-fuel before the drive or let's face it you'll be knackered after a day of wine tasting in the Barossa and craving comfort food, stop by Cheeky Chook Eats. It's a modern take on a chicken shop/diner. One of my favourites is the souvlaki sticks which are all cooked on charcoal, with a side of double cooked fat hot chips and a milkshake. Plenty of healthy options too, including salads and veggies such as brussels with pancetta, lemon thyme and parmesan, harissa charcoal-grilled cauliflower and a fresh juice bar, so there's really something for everyone here. No website: 438 Henley Beach Road, Lockleys
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