If you are looking for a truly Italian café and dining experience, look no further than Caffe L'Incontro. Tucked away in Gay's Arcade, branching off from Adelaide Arcade, this café and eatery offers one of the most enchanting and traditionally European atmospheres to be found in Adelaide's cafés today.
Caffe L'Incontro and surrounds
The European atmosphere is evident, largely because of the European flair with which the staff at Caffe L'Incontro create meals and beverages. An example of this is how it is one of the few places a patron can purchase what is described as 'an Italian hot chocolate'. This beverage is a wickedly thick and rich drink to satisfy any sweet craving. However, not all their creations are so decadent, with a large range of coffees to suit all tastes.
Another factor adding to the atmosphere is how beverages are presented. Not simply placed on a saucer and brought out to diners, warm drinks are served in a variety of cups, and dependant on what is ordered, includes an Italian biscuit alongside and glass of water to finish. It is these added touches that highlight Caffe L'Incontro's class.
Caffe L'Incontro, Caffe Latte
Furthermore, Caffe L'Incontro offers at-the-bar dining, a staple of Italian coffee bars. This allows patrons to sit at the bar, read the paper and enjoy their coffee. This would not be recommended if you choose to eat there, but is perfect for enjoying a coffee or cold drink. In addition to the warm beverages Caffe L'Incontro offers, it also stocks a range of soft drinks, iced teas and sparkling fruit juices (pictured below).
Caffe L'Incontro, Sparkling Fruit Juice
A full lunch, dinner and light snack menu is offered and a list of daily specials is available on a whiteboard facing the bar. Their cuisine is similar to their beverage list in terms of style, focusing on flavoursome Italian dishes.
The glass ceiling creates an alfresco dining experience that is unhindered by the elements, adding to what is an already enjoyable environment. Overall, when looking for a place to recharge while along Rundle Mall or even its more distant surrounds, Caffe L'Incontro is a stop worth making, if nothing else, to experience one of the most European atmospheres in Adelaide.
