Behind a set of imposing double steel doors, close to the centre of Gouger Street, is The Loft Oyster and Wine Bar. Located upstairs, along a grand wide stair case, is a spacious open plan area with intricate details among the magnificent high ceilings.

The decor is sophisticated and chique with a meticulous blend of classic and modern. The individual pieces of furniture in the room create individual spaces for every kind of mood. Perfect for those warm Summer nights, there is a large balcony that overlooks Gouger Street. As a rather large establishment, the venue caters for up to 270 people.

As the name suggests, the Loft Wine Bar specialises in wines, however there are a small selection of cocktails on offer. Also available, are a selection of tapas options. Sample their fried soft shell crab with salt and peppercorns, their grilled scallops with prosciutto and pesto or perhaps one of their delicious vegetarian antipasto plates.

On this particular occasion, I sampled some of their fresh oysters. You could taste the natural saltiness with a wonderful sublime texture.  With each oyster there is a wonderful burst of flavour on my tongue, followed by a subtle sweetness as I start chewing. The oysters have this cucumber finish about them which is both pleasant and exciting.

The staff here are friendly for the most part, however, in order to fulfill their earnings quota per customer, I feel some employees are almost pestering the customers for a drinks order. Depending on how busy the evening is, drinks can take up to 30 minutes to arrive. The atmosphere will vary from being relaxed to vibrant, depending on what time of the night you come here. The pricing here is on par with other places, and the bar food is small and overpriced, just like every other bar.

This place just oozes style and sophistication, and continues to be a trendy hangout. Definitely worth a visit if you’re on this side of town.

WHERE: 1/128 Gouger St, Adelaide