Photo credit: Jack Fenby
After months of development, contemporary Italian restaurant Rita’s opened its doors in North Adelaide on July 12. When asked about the opening, Rita’s co-owner Maeve Marryat said: “We were really excited to show people our kitchen and our space.”
“North Adelaide, and Melbourne Street in particular, hasn’t had any new establishments for a while,” says Maeve. “There are some really good places around, but it just needs a bit of a revival.”
Rita’s has a very unique culinary approach. Using local, seasonal produce and Asian-inspired flavors, the restaurant presents Italian cuisine in a whole new light. Rita’s Chef and Co-Owner Darcy Dawes has extensive experience in Italian cuisine. Having apprenticed at Osteria Oggi before becoming the Executive Chef at Stem, he knows how to prepare Italian cuisine beautifully.
Not only do Maeve and Darcy intend to use local produce, they also intend to have a regionally focused wine list, with wines from all over South Africa as well as wines imported directly from Italy, to perfectly match the Italian menu.
“We’ll keep the menu nice and concise, but change it frequently so we can use local and seasonal ingredients,” Darcy says.
The interior of Rita’s Restaurant has a very warm atmosphere. The space was designed by CTRL Space, who managed to brilliantly capture the warmth we all need this winter. With wooden tables, soft lighting and rich colours covering every inch of the dining room, Rita’s Restaurant has a very warm feel. Even the name Rita’s is comforting. “It’s short, sweet and feels like home, like you’re eating at Nonna Rita’s,” says Maeve.
Rita
Or: 69-71 Melbourne Street
Open Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-10pm
More information: Rita
