How good is a classic pub? After hiding out during COVID, being able to pop into the pub for after-work drinks or a cheeky celebration feels extra special, and we’re certainly soaking it in.
One of our all-round favourites is The Mile End on Henley Beach Road. There is so much that makes this pub special — the quirky artwork, the exceptional service, the beautiful building, the incredible food, the fab drink specials, the comfy accommodation… the list goes on.
When looking for the perfect pub, everyone has something different that they’re searching for. We PROMISE that The Mile End has something for every palette… and here’s why.
For the foodie…
This is us in a nutshell. At most places that we visit, we tend to order one of everything — and The Mile End is no exception! No matter if you’re looking for classic pub grub or something a little bit fancy, you’ll find the perfect fit. After starting with a bunch of smalls to share, we moved right on to the burger, lamb ragu, chicken parmy, and the vegan cauliflower steak. And as expected, it was all DELICIOUS!
For the booze-hound…
Drinks. For. Days. And even better — a lot of what you have to choose from is locally sourced from SA, which we love love love! If the extensive wine and beer list doesn’t tickle your fancy, then let us suggest their cocktails or a custom-made gin fizz. Just choose your fave SA gin, your fave fruit, and your fave mixer… and then sit back and relax while your friendly bartender whips up your perfect drink.
For the one that needs a staycation…
This December, The Mile End turns 180! In recent times, the nine rooms — majority with ensuites — have had a full refurb. If you’re looking for a retro vibe, this is it! They even have a two-bedroom flat that used to be the Hotel Manager’s digs — but now, you can rent it out and make it your own home sweet home. Who doesn’t want to live with a pub right downstairs!
If you’re just passing through town, you can feel good about staying here since you’re close to the airport, have plenty of parking, and it’s super affordable too. Win-win!
For the arty farty type…
If art is your game, you’ll be thrilled to find majority of the walls (both upstairs in the accommodation and downstairs in the bar) are covered in quirky artwork by local artist, Sandra Anderson. This gives each section of the pub a different vibe, so each time you visit it feels like you’ve discovered a new space.
Image credit :: The Mile End
For the person that loves a beer garden…
I feel cooler just by being in the beer garden, that’s the kind of vibe you get from this funky space. Fully enclosed and decked out with its own separate bar, you can hang out in the beer garden all year round. If you’ve got a special celebration around the corner, then this is the perfect spot to book for your private function. With a roaring open fireplace, you can still get that outdoorsy feel in the middle of winter. Boom!
For the muso…
Keep your eye on The Mile End social pages to suss out what entertainment they’ve got around the corner, because the line up is always A-grade. Soak in those acoustic guitar tunes or get your dancing shoes on for a Saturday night special — you’re bound to feel the music in your bones. If there’s no live music scheduled during your visit, you’ll still be vibing to the beats through the speakers.
For those that are die-hard live music enthusiasts, The Mile End is also the perfect second stop after a concert at The Thebby.
For those that love a grab and go…
Sometimes, you just feel like enjoying a locally made fine wine at home in your tracky daks — we get it. That’s why the other bonus of The Mile End is that it is attached to a fully stocked Booze Brothers. Anything that you’d find behind the bar is available for you to swing through and take home. Excellent!
Image credit :: The Mile End
SA, we did reaaal good and now we have our freedom back! Let’s make the most of it and get exploring again — starting with The Mile End.
Millie x
