The Ramsgate Hotel: The Fight Made It Famous. Everything Else Made Me Want to Return.

I thought I knew the Ramsgate. Turns out, I only knew one chapter.

Mention the Ramsgate Hotel to most South Australians and, sooner or later, someone will mention the Ricciuto–Carr punch-up. It’s become part of Adelaide folklore.

For years, that was my entire impression of the place.

So, when I finally walked through its doors, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.

Staff members Jessica and Lilli greeted me with warm smiles, and within seconds I felt completely at home.

Before I’d even looked at the menu, the Ramsgate had already made a terrific first impression.

………..

Later, Bar Manager Matthew showed me around.

He shared the Ramsgate’s history, pointed out some of the venue’s highlights and talked me through the signature dishes and drinks.

It was obvious he wasn’t just managing the place - he genuinely believed in it.

By then, it was clear the Ramsgate had far more to offer than its reputation suggested.

The fresh mint-green walls gave the place a bright, coastal feel, while the black-and-white photographs celebrating the area’s history gave it real character. Comfortable timber chairs completed the picture.

Looking towards Henley Square, the Ramsgate had the feel of a place you’d expect to find in Bondi or Manly - bright, welcoming and easy to settle into. Arriving early meant there was time to soak it all in before the rush.

Their whisky wall showcased everything from familiar favourites to premium bottles, including a 26-year-old Glenfiddich single malt and Japan’s acclaimed Yamazaki.

Matthew explained how fresh fruit - including mango - is infused into selected spirits, giving the cocktail list a point of difference.

Outside, the beer garden - with its retractable roof and greenery climbing the walls - looked like the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon.

After the tour, it was time to find out whether the kitchen could match the venue itself.

The Ramsgate’s two signature dishes are the Grilled Chicken Rosé and the Slow-Cooked Beef Cheeks. Tempting as the beef cheeks sounded, I couldn’t go past the chicken.

It didn’t take long to understand why it’s one of the most popular meals. The menu also features a tempting range of seafood dishes and classic schnitzels.

For me, the Ramsgate wasn’t about one standout thing. It was simply the way everything came together.

Some venues are defined by their past.

The Ramsgate deserves to be experienced for what it is today.

I’ll certainly be back.

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