LOCATIONAt the start of Gouger Street, in between the legal precinct and Chinatown.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAThey say good things come in small packages; this is the case at Spoon. Sitting smartly in the company of city law courts and fellow Gouger Street eateries, it offers a dignified retreat from foodie-frenzied Chinatown and the Central Market. You can still be part of the action, however, by positioning yourself outside at the European-style bank of seating, perfect for sidewalk coffees and checking out pedestrians. Inside you will spy intimately set tables, sexy black linen and cheeky see-through chairs. If you are familiar with Adelaide’s finer Italian dining establishments, you may also recognise Maitre ‘D Alex Ambelas. He knows the biz and ensures your visits are tasteful ones. At Spoon he also reigns as cellar door manger as this snazzy little noshery is the CBD storefront for Lee Flourentzou’s Aramis Vineyards. Snaffle some of his labels’ award-wining drops to take home, but not before Alex has matched them to the goodies chef Mark Cooper sends from the galley kitchen.
For a casual encounter, perch yourself at the bar with a friend and huddle over Spoon’s tasting plate. Filled with salt and pepper Gawler River quail, seared trout, stuffed mussels and marinated goat
Chevre, it gives a delicious whiff of what may be enjoyed as mains. At the surrounding tables, legal eagles from nearby offices are seen hovering over salads of Cajun lamb loin (while going in for the kill from the very sophisticated drinks list – tipples from around the globe make victories taste all the more sweeter). In cooler months, the likes of suet pie of farmed rabbit with winter truffle summon further feelings of smug satisfaction. If time does not permit, then do a take-out ham and cheese toastie, Spoon style. Your
croque monsieur (with
Gruyere) will come in a black, very sexy, very stylish, boutique package.
Roz Taylor