Grace Emily Hotel — Restaurant in Adelaide

Upon entering the Grace Emily Hotel I felt, as Miss Eliza Bennet might upon spying a well-stocked bookshelf, that here at last was society! The room is handsomely furnished with a miscellany of curios—pictures, trinkets, and ornaments—arranged with that particular elegance one only achieves by never dusting them too thoroughly. A fireplace conducts itself with warm civility; even Mr. Darcy would be obliged to unbend a degree.

The company is spirited without lapsing into vulgar exuberance. Musicians appear nightly as if by entail—guitars thrumming, voices soaring, the sort of assembly where a girl might refuse a dance only because the song is too delightful to interrupt. I am told Mondays are the grandest affair; indeed, the revelry that commences on that weekday would make even Lady Catherine reconsider her views on leisure.

The staff move about like amiable cousins who know everyone’s business and judge no one for it. They deliver Coopers with such alacrity one suspects a secret tunnel to the brewery. Prices are so reasonable that any proposal to pay more would be deemed imprudent and declined forthwith. In one corner stands a noble billiards table—so cheap to engage that even Mr. Collins could afford to miss with confidence.

As to provisions, the house is admirably modern: one may import delicacies from abroad (or from Uber Eats) with the tolerant hospitality of a well-bred host. No one faints when a parcel enters; rather the room approves, like a chorus of prudent aunts. And though the crowd is merry, the atmosphere is astonishingly safe—more “good cousins at Christmas” than “rakes at Brighton.” There is, I am assured, a strict No Dickheads Act, which, though not yet passed by Parliament, is enforced here with uncommon success.

In sum: the Grace Emily is not a mere public house but a small republic of music and manners, where the ale is honest, the hearth is obliging, and the only scandal is how swiftly the evening becomes the best one of your week. I shall return with haste and a shawl, prepared to applaud, to laugh, and—should the band demand it—to elope...

The Grace Emily Hotel, situated on Waymouth Street, is a cornerstone of Adelaide's live music scene. From the moment you walk through its doors, you're enveloped in an ambiance that celebrates creativity and community. The pub's interior is adorned with music memorabilia, vintage posters, and eclectic decor, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to the arts.

Live music is the lifeblood of The Grace Emily. The pub hosts performances almost every night, featuring a mix of local talent and touring artists. The intimate setting allows for an up-close and personal experience, fostering a genuine connection between musicians and the audience. Notably, their Monday night open mic sessions, known as "Billy Bob's BBQ Jam," have become a rite of passage for emerging artists, providing a supportive platform to showcase their talents.

The bar offers a diverse selection of beverages, with a focus on local craft beers and boutique wines. The staff are passionate about their offerings and are always eager to share their knowledge, ensuring you find the perfect drink to suit your taste. The absence of gaming machines and televisions reinforces the pub's dedication to fostering genuine human connections and appreciating the arts.

The beer garden is a hidden oasis, providing a tranquil space to relax and enjoy a drink under the stars. It's adorned with fairy lights and rustic furniture, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This outdoor space often hosts special events and gatherings, further cementing The Grace Emily's role as a community hub.

In conclusion, The Grace Emily Hotel is more than just a pub; it's a cultural institution that champions live music, fosters community, and offers a welcoming space for all. Its authentic charm and unwavering commitment to the arts make it a standout venue in Adelaide's...

I am never going back to the Grace Emily ever again, which is unfortunate because I quite like the venue itself, however management need to do a serious and drastic overhaul of their bar staff. The last (and final) time I went to the Grace Emily I ordered a coopers sparkling ale from the tap (one of my favourites beers that I drink regularly) and was served a beer that more closely resembled vegemite than a beer with the amount of bottom keg sediment in it. When I asked if I could exchange my "beer" (aka yeast soup) for a fresh one once the keg had been changed, the bar staff flatly refused. Slightly taken aback by this I ask if instead it would be possible to exchange it for a bottle of coopers sparkling ale from the fridge and I would happily pay the difference. Again I was flatly refused. Being absolutely dumbfounded at this stage I asked if I could just have my money back. Again (not surprisingly) they refused. In all the years I have been going to venues around Adelaide I have never experienced such shocking, rude and utterly unreasonable service. I am all together very disappointed that such terrible bar service has ruined what is in most other respects an enjoyable place....