13/12/2011 1 photo If you enjoy a good round of competitive…read morepool and catch-up drink with old mates like I do, make sure to visit The Matchroom. This place is great - cheap, cheaper if you split with several friends, Australian, includes a lounge bar facility, plenty of vacant pool tables to choose from, yet not very crowded - so plenty of room to strike a pose and get your pool stick on. This isn't your typical pool lounge that always seems to be full of smoke, nextdoor to the nightclub or just around the corner...unless you don't mind bumping your stick against other strangers or back wall and walking a lengthy distance just to get some drinks from the bar. An diverse mix of pool and snooker regulars, serious competitive older men and enthusiastic beginners who hits the white ball too hard like me, this dimly lit pool room has everything an middle-aged man or a bored high school graduate could desire. You might be surprised at the tiny size of the bar, but I was pleased that there is not even one hint of smoke all evening, as a result of the new anti-smoking laws in South Australia. Not only will you have a fun time playing pool, but the bartender is always there for your drink order or enquiries. Depending on the night you go, there is plenty of pool to be played. There are darts on offer, but due to customers being dangerous with darts the bartender has outlawed the darts game in his room. Great for a group of friends looking to have fun and catch up on old times, as we seem to forget when we are so busy during the working week.

At my grandparents' house, they call my nonno (Italian grandfather) the 'teenager'. They call him…read morethis because he's moody and never home. And he never tells us where he goes. We come up with all sorts of stories for him, but as to the truth, it's a mystery. Although, The Matchroom, I think, has shed some light on that mystery. One thing I know of his mysterious past is his pool-playing ability. I've never seen a better pool player. In person, anyway. So I asked if he wanted to go to a club. He reluctantly agreed. I listed a few places but he said no to most of them. This set of the first alarm bell. I wondered if he knew these places and didn't want me to meet the kind of people he hung out with. Finally he conceded to The Matchroom. I'm a bit of a wildcard when it comes to pool. I'm either amazing or terrible. There's no middle-ground. But one thing I love to do is break. I love the thunderclap of the white ball breaking up the motley assortment of other balls. I always hit the white ball too hard, however, and often knock it off the table. It makes my nonno go ballistic, but I just love and continue. One time, however, the owner of the establishment caught me and he marched over to me, angry-faced, and began to give me a firm telling-off. That's when my nonno came to stand beside me. The owner gave him one look, then looked back to me, apologised, and left. Now isn't THAT interesting.

Okay, I have been here a number of times in the past with friends, but really, it isn't one of my…read morefavourite places, namely because it does tend to be particularly expensive, especially when it comes to having a meal. Sure, it has some charm about it, but while charm does give a place some rating, it isn't the be all and end all. I guess the expense of the meals really did put me off somewhat.

I've been back a few times since my last review. This time we started with Turkish Bread with…read moreDukkah ($7.90). The three huge pieces of bread were perfect to soak up the oil and the Dukkah was yummy. The pork belly ($26.90) is still great. My friend ordered the Thai Salad ($24.90). Everything washed down with a glass of Bird in Hand sparkling ($9.50) and Merrill Rose ($7.00). It's a pity that they don't serve any decent sparkling red by the glass, so would be nice to see something other than Seaview on the wine list. We had table service the whole time, and only had to go to the bar to pay after our meal. Maybe that was because it was quiet for a Monday lunch, and I think that The British was a great way to start my week.

This pool hall is one of my favourite places on the Parade. It is hidden away upstairs and great…read moreentertainment for everyone. Apart from the Empire pool lounge, which frankly is quiet seedy, it is the only pool hall in the city. There are not too many pool tables, but every time I have been there, there has been one available. It's not expensive to play, just a couple of gold coins a game. There is also a jukebox, that also plays the matching music videos, so you can decide what terrible classic you want to listen to whilst attempting to hit balls into pockets. I really enjoy the atmosphere up there. I have never felt uncomfortable and it is even suitable for families with teenage children. Importantly, they have a bar so you can sip on a beverage whilst playing. The drinks are slightly expensive, but nothing too ridiculous. The hall can also cater for functions of up to 200 people. The interior decorating is very interesting. They have some of the weirdest statues and other items I have ever seen, there are even things hanging on the roof!

When I was a teenager, I thought that playing pool was the most badass thing you could do. I had…read morethis idea that any imbecile can fight, but the hardest men showed their skills first on the pool table......and THEN they proceeded to bash each other with their pool cues if there was further need for convincing. The Ballroom was one of my favourite places to go, and was a good way to spend a boring night on The Parade. Back then I wasn't too bad at sinking a few, but nowadays I try to save myself the embarrassment. The Ballroom would be a perfect place to shoot a bar fight. It's dark and a little seedy, but not too intimidating. There are plenty of pool tables available and the place is hardly ever busy, so you won't have to worry about waiting. In the event that you do have to wait for a table, you can always grab a drink from the bar and hang around or watch some of the other players flex their skills. The jukebox is also another great source of entertainment with tonnes of old hits - although I don't think the majority of the patrons would appreciate playing a game of pool to Vengaboys, so it might be a good idea to stay away from the pop one hit wonders!

Unless you've been born into a well to do old Adelaide family - and you're a gentleman - you're…read moreunlikely to ever get past the front door of The Adelaide Club. This is an exclusive 'gentleman's club' the likes of which don't exist in many places these days. The club was established back in 1863 and its still stands today in its original location on North Terrace. Much of the exterior of the building has remained unchanged since those early days but those 'allowed' inside report that it has undergone a myriad of changes inside through the years. Not that average bods like you and I can get in there but those who have say there's a library, billiards room, bar, library, cards room and of course accommodation. If you come from old Adelaide money, you may get inside one day but I don't like my chances of ever paying them a visit. I'm sure this establishment is deserving of five stars but its exclusivity status prevents me from granting it - so there!

or secret Mens society, as I like to call it…read more It's that exclusive, that the staff are contracted to keep their mouths shut about anything and everything that happens within The Adelaide Club walls. Now it isn't just old Adelaide money, its for anyone of a certain upper class in society who also happens to drive a Bentley and isn't still paying it off. There is a restaurant which offers silver service, a smoking room for enjoying a fine Cuban cigar... and accommodation. I'm of course just going by what I've been told, The Adelaide Club is for doctors and lawyers and their home away from home wifeys. I would be concerned if my partner was frequenting this gentlemens club, the exclusivity is ridiculous and dated and the secrecy is just plain uncomfortable.

Shotz, Aka 'Emo Palace' is a wonderful microcosm of the Adelaide youth. There's the boys with dog…read morechain bracelets and eye liner slitting their wrists in the middle area, tattooed gangster girls and dudes sculling rum and starting fights in the beer garden, and teeny-boppers in tight dresses dancing to vintage Madonna on the dance floor. And out front where all the kids vomit and try to drag each other into cabs, you have all kinds mingling in an orgy of youthful desperation. This venue would win for 'most times me and my friends have fallen spectacularly in a bar.' The only other place even close for number of ass over tit moments would be the Rocket Bar stairs. Shotz is such a weird mix of all the young Adelaide night life you never really know what you're getting yourself into, the only guarantee being: it will be weird. You will get incredibly pissed from the stupendously cheap drinks there. And by God, you will dance.

Where is in the world can a DJ move from a classic like Cmon Eileen to brining backstreet back…read morealong with the latest from Bruno to smashing out a little small thing from blink 182 and taking you somewhere toxic with Brittany in one set AND keep the dance floor full of cheering punters? Shotz, that's where. Maybe it's the cheap drinks and nostalgia that it brings back, I'm pretty sure they haven't redecorated here since my high school days (or cleaned the walls *cough*) but it's the kind of solid trashy place that you can come when you're well in to your night out and just want to dance like no ones watching, because they aren't, they're here on the floor dancing just as crazy as you.

I came in for a cool drink on a 37° day and they refused to serve me. They told me to go down the…read moreroad to the Stag Hotel. I am here for work and have to wait in the heat until I'm required at 5:00 pm. I saw others enjoying a cool drink on the way out. What does that say about service at this venue? I won't be back.

The Botanic is, by far, one of my favourite places to grab a drink in the city. Their incredibly…read morerelaxed atmosphere, fine interior décor and wide selection of drinks make this place great for all occasions, whether it be getting together with a large group of friends, or sharing a drink with a few. The bartenders really know how to make a mean drink, and their extensive knowledge in different cocktails is impressive to say the least. One of my favourite drinks here is their simple gin and tonic, and their inclusion of the slice of cucumber in the glass. It's a small difference, but one that is noticeable on the palette and enough to make a huge difference. They've got local and import beers that won't stretch your budget too thin, and a large selection of wines and spirits. Their food is also incredibly great value. The wood oven pizzas are light enough to snack on, yet filling enough to ensure you won't be passing out during the cab ride back home. And only six dollars! That's value you can't beat.

Came here for lunch on a weekday. Street parking was easy. It's been about 6 years since I last…read morecame. In my mind, Coopers Alehouse has always been a go to spot for schnitzel, so that's what I came for. Our table ordered a chicken parmi, a beef schnitzel and a fish & chips. Didn't realize that schnitzels don't come with salad so we also ordered side salad. The parmi was ok, wasn't as juicy as I remembered it to be. The beef schnitzel (with Diane sauce) was a bit underwhelming - there were definitely chunks of tendons or something, making it hard to cut and chew. The fish (flat head) was actually the most expensive dish - the batter was good and the fish was tender, so that was good. The chips were fresh and tasty too. Overall it was a good meal but I wish the schnitzels were better, since that was the focus of my meal.

Rode by this restaurant on 2 bike rides and as I do love coopers beer... thought I'd give it a go…read more I must say... whatever the renovation is... bravo!! The sparkler came out lovely, strong as always and cold! I'm a sucker for REAL onion rings so I started with them... not to be missed! Then I had 6 of the oysters natural. Big, meaty, and the minionette was lovely. The main was shockingly good. The chef's choice seared spiced king fish was brilliant. Medallions of seared spiced king fish loin topped with salmon roe arranged with a slaw of fennel, chicory, orange and grapefruit chunks, and more king fish chunks. All complimented by a to die for black squid ink garlic aioli!! I'm full... and the sparkler is kicking in... I will definitely be back for more if I am in Adelaide!! Thanks to all the staff too. Really on point.

I really enjoyed the atmosphere here in this sunny afternoon in the beer garden…read more For football fans there is a massive screen showing matches, however don't fear if you're not a footy fan as the volume is either low or non-existent, which is the perfect balance and enables conversation to ensue. Don't go here for a light snack. Do expect chips with just about every meal. Do starve yourself beforehand as you will be well rewarded. The food was fabulous 'pub grub'. The schnitzels could feed a small army and the chicken was so sumptuous. I love the variety of toppings available including a 'hangover' topping that is $9 extra, and includes 2 fried eggs, bacon, onion rings, BBQ sauce and cheese. Almost worth getting drunk the night before for! I'm really keen to return to try the pork sanger. It looked amazing and has wasabi aioli and dirty slaw with it. And chips. Of course. The staff was really friendly and attentive. There are also happy hours. The bell rings and there is a rush to the bar to buy $3 cider and $2 beer. A fun, relaxed crowd completed the atmosphere. A great way to while away a Sunday afternoon.

Now, I must admit I have not been to the Alma Tavern for a long time. In fact, majority of the…read moretimes I have visited this pub has been for functions upstairs which have all been great. They have a good space to hire and centrally located. Recently, The Alma has had a facelift and the outdoor beer garden (Skybar) area is pretty damn cool! They have installed a pizza oven and outdoor bar, with lots of open space and seated areas. This area is looking so much more trendy and fun. I think that this outdoor area will get very busy in the warmer months. Be sure to check out their pizza menu! They are having a lot of fun with it. I tried a Open Burrito pizza which had chilli con carne on it with rice, cheese and sour cream. Sounds unusual, but was really yummy! This is comfort food and goes way too well with a beer. The Alma is a lot bigger than what you think it is when you drive past. It is separated into a back formal dining area, main bar & restaurant in the middle and front, outside beer garden and upstairs function area. The Alma serves your typical pub food, but they just do it so well. It is good quality and well portion sized. Check out their Classic Fish and chips served with mushy peas! Yum!

My kind of pub. Dingy but not dirty. Quirky, without being too 'quirky'. Live music most nights of…read morethe week. Decently priced beer. Spacious and cool. Sticky carpet and colorful characters. Not a pokie in sight (or sound). Regular BBQs out in the beer garden. Cool sense of community from musos, hipsters, artists, and just anyone who likes a beer in one of Adelaide's most laid back pubs. Walking into the Grace is like putting on an old jumper you've found at the bottom of your wardrobe- might have an interesting whiff about it, but damn is it comfortable.

I recently visited the Grace Emily Hotel in Adelaide, a favourite Monday night hangout of mine…read morelocated at the south end of Waymouth in the inner west of the city. Monday night is open mike night, better known as Billy Bob's BBQ jam, an attraction for locals and tourists alike. Although quiet until about 9pm, the bar quickly fills and by 10 is packed with eccentrics, hipsters, aspiring musicians backpackers and international students. It is a quaint looking place, staunchly anti poker machine and one of the strongest supporters of Adelaide's local music scene. The walls are littered with 60's paraphernalia and objets d'art. During the winter time an open fire roars in the front bar, whilst during the summer people congregate outside in the beer garden out the back whilst waiting for the music to start. The cause of attraction is Billy Bob and his BBQ band. Performing perfect renditions of rock epics such as Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher" (including the choreographed guitar thrusts) and moody blues numbers Billy Bob and his band set the bar for subsequent performances, and return to the stage intermittently to support other acts. Subsequent performances vary markedly from week to week but are always entertaining. From aged local singer song writers to sprightly young punkers, 10 piece reggae bands to a travelling magician the line up is always full, different and invigorating. During the Chinese New Year I have even seen a full Dragon Dance performance. For those who wish to perform, it is advisable to bring your own instrument (with the exception of drums of course which are provided by the venue), although, on occasion, Billy Bob and his band have allowed use of their guitars to young and underprepared punters. You will need to approach Billy Bob (he's the guy with the cowboy hat) and get your name written down on the list. Everyone is welcome, so if you can play, give it a go. The sound is great and taken care of by an experienced professional, there are also a number of mics for multiple vocalists, horns etc. For those who prefer to relax, the front bar is a less hectic way to take in the vibe and have a chat. With friendly bar staff and a counterculture atmosphere the Grace Emily is a unique and wonderful gem in the city of Adelaide. Aside from the regular Monday night open mike night for which the Grace Emily is so well known, it hosts numerous gigs for local, interstate and international acts during the week and on weekends. And they have the full range of coopers on tap! What more could one ask for in a venue.

This is by far, Adelaide's best kept secret right now. Small bars are popping all around town, but…read morethis one stands true to the whole hole-in-the-wall hidden bar concept. GENIUS. It is so refreshing. If you're not looking hard enough you would easily miss it. Walk in and it's like the prohibition era, from the grungy shelves to the dark, moody decor and booths to the sad music. It is easily one of the best themed cocktail bars in Adelaide. Drinks are fantastic. Some bars have expensive drinks for not much and they don't taste great. Not at Baddog, they are top notch and the barman does it right in front of you on the bar so you don't miss a thing. Brilliant. Best find of the year for me so far.

Zack has built an amazing speak easy style bar that makes you feel like you've ducked back in time…read moreto a prohibition era. The waist coats, crystal glasses and twisted stainless steel and silver spoons all work to make this a top spot for a cocktail or cheeky beer. A maestro of the common and rare cocktails and a range of spirits you wont find in many bars Zack makes this bar. Sitting at the bar is mandatory for the first drink in my opinion then sneak off to the lux booths for quiet and intimate drinks. Its dark, has very cool décor and edgy clean bathrooms. Bad Dog Bar doesn't have tvs, doesn't have pokies and doesn't have tap beer and for goodness sakes never order an apple-tini :) and that's the way we like it. Top Tip: order the pickleback - rye bourbon shot followed by some freshly made pickle juice. The SMoking Joint cocktail is also a fav!