Eat: Show us your mussels

Spring in Adelaide. It’s a beautiful thing. When the sun’s shining, the closest beer garden’s calling. And on this occasion, it was the Belgians. The Belgian Beer Cafe is neatly tucked out of harm’s way in the East End of the CBD. Why get distracted by passers-by when you can instead get distracted by a detailed eight page beer menu?
Drinks ordered. Thirst quenched. We then turned our attention to the food menu. How does a pot full of mussels sound? I’m not certain I even really like mussels but I’m all for the full experience and if mussels are the staple Belgian dish, then mussels it will be. Not to mention they come served in a massive traditional ‘Belgian Kilo Mussel Pot’. What?

Michelle opted for a much more sensible sausage and beer combo deal. But where’s the fun it that? Merguez ‘N’ Beer – Char grilled French beef sausage, caramelised onion, seeded mustard mayonnaise in a crusty bread roll served with pommes frites and a 330ml Stella Artois.

The Pot-O-Mussels comes served in your choice of six broths. I opted for Paddestoel – White wine, field mushroom, confit garlic, spring onion, cream, truffle oil and cracked pepper served with pommes frites and house made mayonnaise. It’s an impressive sight.

The creamy broth was as rich and heavy as it sounds. And although I’m assured this is indeed a serving for one, I didn’t stand a chance.

Reckon you’re up for the challenge? Mussel up boys. I think I’ll stick to the beer menu next time.

See: Cheap Thrills

Fifteen dollars doesn’t get you very much these days. On tightarse Tuesday it might cover the cost of a movie ticket or a cheap parmie, but what about the other six days of the week? Last night, a Friday, I got over three hours of quality live entertainment, a lot of laughs and change from fifteen bucks. Wanna know where?

Most Adelaidians are familiar with Rhino Room. An inner city venue that gets a thorough workout during March Madness that is the Fringe. But perhaps you didn’t know that they maintain that support of comedic talent throughout the whole year. Every Monday, Thursday and Friday, comedians and associated visual artists take to the stage, lifting the spirits of the intimately gathered crowd.

During a standard Friday night show you’ll see a handful of comedians, from beginners, youngsters and hobbyists to interstate and international guests. There’s no long queues to get in, just a bar with pretty lights. Every seat’s a good seat and you definitely won’t get lost in the crowd. You get a close up view as the funny people put their best foot forward and test their wares. Plus there are plenty of drinks breaks. And the beer list’s good.

Pre-purchase your tickets if you’re super tight organised or simply make your way down after a few work drinks. When the Fringe Festival rolls around you might even feel confident enough to recommend a local show to friends and family. Get yourself in the know and have a few well priced laughs along the way.

Mingle: Gin Diligence

If this isn't gin weather, I don’t know what is. Luckily, just in time, the fine people of Hendrick's have taken up shop in the East End of town. Here specifically to teach the young folk a thing or two about refined courtship whilst casually sipping on a G&T.

Get along to sample the Scottish brew, served in delightful little teacups. Workshops are open to any gents wanting to work on their hatiquette and any ladies of society wishing to brush up on the fine art of faniquette. You’ll be welcomed by some lovely lasses, waited on hand and foot and treated to a little behind-the-modesty-screen show (and tell).

The workshop is situated at 3/300 Rundle Street and is open to the public until Sunday. Look for the bathtub in the window.

Saturday 3 September – 12pm til 7pm
Sunday 4 September – 12pm til 7pm

Get all the details here.