It isn’t often I write a restaurant review anymore, however, after a trip to Roxie’s today, I felt inspired to do so. 

Set slightly further afield than the main streets of Adelaide’s CBD, we came across Roxie’s purely by chance, on our way back from Flinders Street Christmas Market. I must say, a Christmas market in 25+ degree weather is very weird, but it meant we were looking for somewhere in the sun for a bit of lunch. 

Roxie’s was like a Mediterranean tardis- unassuming from the outside, but once you’re through the gate it’s a tropical garden with amazing character and atmosphere. 

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To our surprise we were the only people there, however, this did mean we got full pick of all the seating options. High tables, benches, stools, chairs, in the sun, in the shade, everything you could imagine. 

The food and drinks are ordered separately, and after a quick scan on the menu, we placed a food order, followed by drinks. Although the menu wasn’t extensive, there were delicious choices, and intriguing pairings of ingredients. Which, I guess, is why I have been inspired to write this blog; the food excited me.

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To drink we opted for something refreshing… and alcoholic. I haven’t been drinking since I had my wisdom teeth out, so I eased back in gently with a Pimms spritz; fruity and delicious! Mum chose an Australian Riesling, perfect on a hot sunny day. 

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Now onto the main attraction… the food. We selected three plates to share. Mum chose the Croquetas from the tapas section of the menu, which both looked, and smelled, amazing- but sadly they weren’t gluten free. The croquetas were served with delicious aoli too, which I did try! 

Along with the croquetas, we ordered a broccoli dish from the grill section, and the special pizza with a gluten free base. The broccoli, for me, was the best dish! With a super garlicy sauce, almonds, hazelnuts, egg and herbs, it was crunchy and delicious, with a smoky finish from the grill. I was unsure about the egg, but it worked so well with the other ingredients, a really clever dish. 

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The pizza special was crispy and just the right amount of greasy. The toppings were mortadella ham, green olives and mozzarella. I do normally like my pizzas to have the tomato element, but I really didn’t notice it missing. I took a couple of slices we had leftover to have as a snack as we walked around Adelaide Zoo. 

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If the food, drink, atmosphere and surroundings aren’t selling points enough, the staff were also great. Both behind the bar and in the kitchen, the staff were amazingly friendly, helpful and chatty, and really added to our dining experience. I imagine Roxie’s gets super busy, and it seems a great location for a summer party, or a casual beer after work. 

Like I have said, everything was great, and I will certainly be returning. It is definitely worth veering off from the usual track, away from Hindley Street and Rundle Mall.