Adelaide, like every Australian capital, has myriad Italian joints. But Rigoni’s sits at the high-water mark, not only for its enduring appeal (since 1956!), but also for its savvy Italian dishes, clued-up staff, sublime SA and Italian wines, and immaculate presentation (serious first date/anniversary terrain). Style-wise, a simple formula of fold-back windows, blackboards, terracotta tiles and white linen applies – an undistracting interior leaving you focussed on your saltimbocca di cervo (grilled venison with sage, prosciutto, braised venison tortellini, chestnut puree, pickled beetroot and juniper jus). Book a seat in the window and watch Leigh Street’s pedestrian circus. They’re open for breakfast, too.
