If you haven’t been to Thunderbird in Port Elliot yet, it’s definitely one to put on your go-to list. 

Since nesting in The Strand in the heart of historic Port Elliot about three and a half years ago, Thunderbird has become a foodie destination.

When you’re down south on holidays and you’re at the end of the tether with fish and chips, sausage rolls and the kids’ leftover chicken nuggets, there is nothing better than rinsing the salt and the sunscreen off and lounging into Thunderbird with a table booking (and a babysitter if you’re that lucky!) Please note – children are welcome at Thunderbird, and taking the kiddos along would definitely be doable, particularly for a casual brekky or brunch out the front on the deck in the morning sun, but personally, I recommend that you reserve Thunderbird for an adults only date night/afternoon, if you have the luxury. Take the kids to the bakery or one of the pubs.

Thunderbird hasn’t just found favour with the visitors - there’s a very loyal local following also. You’ll find an eclectic mix of patrons from Port Elliot itself and elsewhere on the Fleurieu. Thunderbird definitely punches above its weight when it comes to the quality of the dining and the drinking, so when this restaurant popped up in Port Elliot, many people thought all their Christmases had come at once.

It’s one more jewel in the crown of Port Elliot. Located just a bit over an hour from the Adelaide CBD, the town is charming, with its calm and sheltered Horseshoe Bay, historic train station, and some very tempting boutiques up and down The Strand and the Main Street, selling stunning homewares, women’s fashion and gifts (if you’re a sucker for earrings and scarves like me, you’ll be in heaven). Before or after your booking at Thunderbird, a visit to the stunning Strand Art Gallery next door is also a must.

Thunderbird is just lovely and there are many reasons why it’s so popular.

Menu-wise, it’s proudly parochial, using the produce bowl of the Fleurieu Peninsula as the inspiration to its fresh, seasonal dishes.

Expect modern Australian cuisine with a strong seafood section. Which of course it should be, with the glorious Horseshoe Bay just a drop punt away. Well a drop punt and a bit of a downhill roll with the wind behind it, if it’s me doing the kicking. 

The wine list is regionally based, with a focus on McLaren Vale and our other South Australian wine regions, but for something a bit different you’ll find the only international wine collection south side of McLaren Vale. 

In terms of ambience, the stunning exposed brick interior and halo lights, relaxed jazz, and staff who know what they’re doing, all combine to make you feel like you’re in for a treat. It’s ‘finer’ dining, but with a relaxed atmosphere. 

Summer at Thunderbird is great, but I think the restaurant really comes into its own in the winter time. Think red wine, and something slow-cooked and scrumptious, like the lamb shoulder (which is delicious). I can’t think of anything nicer than trying to spot some Southern Right Whales on their annual migration to the South Coast, followed by some serious defrosting with a warming meal and coffee or local wine at Thunderbird. Pure bliss.

Treat yourself and make a booking today. 

Thunderbird: 41 The Strand, Port Elliot

(08) 8554 2491, https://www.thunderbirdpe.com/