LOCATIONAt the intersection of Pulteney and Wakefield Streets.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAAny Adelaide diner worth their rock, sea or table salt will have noshed at Alphutte at least once. Owner Leo Schadegg migrated in the 1970s after completing his chef apprenticeship in Switzerland. He built this city restaurant in 1983 and has been at the helm ever since. In these days of trendy tapas eateries, some may consider Alphutte slightly passe but a visit will remind you what dignified dining is about. The decor is a mix of the old and new (well-worn leather chairs have obviously seated a few in their time). Lofty timber beams give a chalet feel, while the wooden drinks trolley will bring a smile to your face – either for its charm or its contents. Wine and cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the corner cellar where Leo displays his support of both the sport and our local wine industry (with some nice drops from abroad too).
The menu has changed little in the past 26 years and Alphutte’s regulars would not have it any other way. Head chef Darren has been in residence two years shy of its lifetime. Dishes are listed “from the Swiss corner” and “from the rest of the world”. Shellfish ragout is the most popular entree with its prawn, lobster and scallops in a fish and cream sauce served in puff pastry. Piccata Milanaise is an indulgent main of pork medallions turned in egg and parmesan then baked in butter and presented on risotto. Caneton a l’orange brings a half duckling roasted brown in Grand Marnier sauce. If you bypass the chocolate fondue, you may like to finish your Swiss rendezvous with a “mountaineer’s hot chocolate” with butterscotch liqueur, or a schnapps from that endearing drinks trolley.
Roz Taylor, March 2009