Russell's, Hope Forest

Russell's is fast becoming the "cooks alternative"--the venue where Adelaide's top chefs enjoy their night off. Housed in a slightly dilapidated old building furnished with second-hand shop oddments, Russell's offers a casual atmosphere, encouraging strangers to share tables and chat. Service is mostly do-it-yourself with lighting provided by candles. Try bread, olive oil and home-made dukkah to start, accompanied by salad, platters of goats cheese and olives. Follow this with crispy wood-fired Italian pizza or Turkish bread filled with tender, marinated lamb. To drink, try the red and white house wine or you can bring a favourite bottle of your own.