A Taste of the Mediterranean Lands in Adelaide: Omada Brings Greek Charm to Leigh Street
Sometimes, the most delightful discoveries are the ones that surprise you, unfolding right before your eyes – or in this case, your nose and your palate. For Adelaide food lovers, the aroma wafting from the corner of Leigh and Currie Streets is an irresistible invitation. It’s the scent of authentic Greek cooking, a culinary embrace that promises a vibrant and deeply satisfying experience. This is Omada, a new Greek bar and bistro housed within a magnificent heritage building, and it’s quickly becoming a standout destination.
The sensory journey begins before you even step inside. On “Spit Roast Sundays,” the streetside sizzle of lamb and octopus cooked over hot coals transports you directly to the heart of Greek traditions. It’s a lively, engaging spectacle that sets the stage for the warmth and conviviality found within.
Stepping through the striking cobalt blue door, a hue reminiscent of the Mediterranean Sea itself, you enter a bright, airy, and thoughtfully designed space. Studio Gram, the creative minds behind the aesthetics of other beloved establishments like Osteria Oggi, Fugazzi, and Latteria, have once again showcased their design prowess. At Omada, they’ve opted for a “less is more” approach, embracing a classic Greek sensibility that feels both sophisticated and utterly welcoming. The expansive dining room is strategically divided, featuring a bustling open-plan kitchen at one end and a long, elegant marble bar at the other. This bar, it turns out, is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a character in its own right, a focal point for conversation and expertly crafted beverages.
Mezedes: A Yiayia-Style Welcome
The culinary journey at Omada truly shines with its “mezedes” – small plates designed for sharing, served with a heartfelt, yiayia-style touch. Presented with an endearing charm on delicate paper doilies, these dishes are a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to flavour and presentation.
- Garfish Sando: A delightful surprise, this white bread garfish sandwich is artfully arranged like edible soldiers. Lightly crumbed and flash-fried to perfection, the fish is nestled between crisp lettuce shards, complemented by tangy confit calamari and a luscious lemon mayonnaise. It’s a playful yet sophisticated starter that sets a high bar for what’s to come.
A Menu Forged in Fire and Tradition
The heart of Omada’s menu lies in the elemental forces of coal and fire, a reflection of head chef Andy Ferrara’s dual heritage – half-Greek, half-Italian. The emphasis is unequivocally on shared dining, encouraging a communal experience that mirrors the warmth of Greek hospitality.
- Hand-Cut Dolmades: Forget the usual vine leaves; here, hand-cut beef and avgolemono dolmades are lovingly wrapped in cabbage. This subtle alteration results in a more delicate and nuanced flavour, a testament to the kitchen’s thoughtful approach to tradition.
- Ragù Moussaka: A comforting and dramatic rendition of the classic moussaka, served in a warm terrine form. The dish is elevated by a theatrical drizzle of béchamel sauce poured from a small crystal jug at your table, adding a touch of elegance to this beloved Greek staple.
- Char-Grilled Robe Octopus: A beautifully presented twirl of tender, char-grilled octopus, a signature dish that is generously topped with a vibrant Greek salsa and Omada’s own house-made taramasalata. The smoky char from the grill perfectly complements the creamy, briny dip.
The commitment to quality extends to the meat dishes. Cuts are expertly broken down on-site daily, ensuring freshness and allowing for an ever-changing selection that highlights the best seasonal produce.
- Lamb Plate: This is a carnivore’s dream, featuring succulent lamb chops, tender ribs, and flavourful sheftalia, all presented with pride. It’s a substantial offering that showcases the versatility and deliciousness of lamb.
- Youvetsi: Elevating the humble Greek stew, Omada’s youvetsi is a masterpiece of slow cooking. Tender chicken and rich ox-tail are simmered to perfection and served atop a bed of unctuous tomato sauce with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a dish that warms the soul.
For those who find the decision-making process too challenging, Omada offers curated set menus that guide diners through their culinary landscape:
- Chora (The Land): A celebration of land-based ingredients and traditional flavours.
- Thalassa (The Sea): A journey through the freshest seafood and coastal inspired dishes.
- Symposion (The Gathering): A comprehensive tasting experience designed for sharing and conviviality.
Cocktails: A Divine Elixir
No visit to Omada would be complete without indulging in their exceptional cocktail list. Securing a seat at the marble bar is a sought-after experience, not just for the drinks, but for the engaging company of the bar staff. Tommy Hoff, a seasoned professional formerly of Fugazzi, is at the helm, expertly crafting unique cocktails.
- House-Made Spirits: Omada infuses its own spirits, including a distinctive ouzo, a delicate lychee vermouth, and a traditional retsina, adding a personalised Greek twist to every concoction.
- House Spritz: A refreshing and invigorating start, perfect for any occasion.
- Filthy Feta Martini: This inventive martini is a true standout, incorporating feta brine for a savoury depth that is surprisingly complex and utterly delicious. The whey from the feta is cleverly repurposed, finding its way into the honey caramel for the baklava parfait dessert, demonstrating a commitment to zero waste and creative flavour pairings.
Omada is more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant celebration of Greek culture, cuisine, and hospitality. It’s a place where every dish tells a story, and every sip is a toast to good times. It’s enough to make even the gods of pleasure dizzy with delight.
Omada
46 Currie St, Adelaide, SA
(08) 7118 4391
https://www.omadabargrill.com.au/
Chef: Andy Ferrara
Price Guide: $$$
Bookings: Recommended
Opening Hours:
Lunch: Wednesday – Sunday
Dinner: Tuesday – Sunday
