Adelaide Food Central was invited to the opening launch of The Unley. All food and drinks were provided free of charge.

In these tough competitive times, businesses have to follow the current trends and do what works in order to be successful. This is no different to The Unley, which for a long time, was The Boho Bar. The unique and quirky Bohemian themed decor has been replaced with more modern and sophisticated surroundings. The addition of the roof top bar will be perfect for lazy Sunday afternoon or a warm Summers night. The menu has also been revamped to include tapas style dishes, sliders, flat bread pizzas and the more traditional pub options.

The Unley Signature is inspired by the orchids and agricultural history of Unley and combines Zubrowka bison grass vodka, Triple Sec and Havana Club dark rum with cloudy apple juice and agave nectar. The pronounced flavour of the dark rum compliments the sweetness of the apple juice and agave nectar perfectly making this a delicious refreshing cocktail.

The Mar-tea-ni is a delicate balance of Tanqueray gin and earl grey tea. The gin uses the finest botanicals to deliver distinct citrus flavours of grapefruit, oranges and lime, and successfully creates a new spin on the traditional martini.

The Jalapeno Popper had a firm crunchy panko crumbed coating which covered a soft thinly spread jalapeno. The cheese filling was smooth and creamy, and the subtly spicy chipotle sauce gave this dish much needed depth.

The Tiger Prawn was cooked to perfection and exhibited lovely smokey char grilled flavours. These were further complimented by the subtly sweet goji macadamia puree.

The Pan Fried Haloumi was lightly browned on both sides. The saltiness of the haloumi was balanced by the citrus notes of the preserved lemon and the subtle spiciness of the chilli virgin oil.

The Beef Satay was lean, tender and succulent, and was well complimented by the spicy peanut and coconut sauce. A variation to a classic combination.

The Atlantic Salmon was pan fried to medium rare and had a lovely pinkish centre. The soft delicate fish was well complimented by the natural sweetness of the stewed capsicum, onions and tomatoes.

The Vegie Patch was bright and colourful with the full assortment of vegetables. The firm asparagus, brussel sprouts and heirloom carrots were complimented by the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and beetroot. Topped off with a delicious date balsamic, this salad is both light and refreshing.

The Peking Duck Slider is a modern take on an Asian favourite. The generous slices of well marinated Peking Duck were balanced by the sweet and tangy pickled cucumber. The chilli myrtle sauce had a subtle kick and enhanced the overall flavour of the ingredients.

The Unley Burger comes with a tender, succulent and well seasoned Coorong Angus beef pattie. The bacon was slightly salty with lovely smokey flavours. This was balanced by natural sweetness of the beetroot jam and tomato chutney.

The Roast Beetroot, Pear and Haloumi Slider was something I’ve already had at the Mile End Hotel. A perfect balanced of saltiness from the haloumi and sweetness from the beetroot and pear.

The Jerk Chicken Pizza is cooked on a piece of flat bread. As expected, the chicken was a little dry but very well marinated. The subtle spiciness of the chicken was well balanced by the sweetness of the blistered capsicum and pineapple.

To finish things off, we were served the Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake. Presented in a deconstructed fashion, the cheesecake was soft and delicate. Its smooth and creamy texture was complimented by the firm crumbly base.

This place has come a long way since it was The Boho Bar. The menu has been revamped while still retaining the pub favourites, and the surroundings are sophisticated and contemporary. Ideally located on the city fringe, this is the perfect place to unwind and share a drink with friends.

WHERE: 27 Unley Rd, Parkside