The Summertown Aristologist

In the ‘80s the Adelaide Hills was home to dining institution The Uraidla Aristologist, an innovative restaurant inspired by the traditions of French and Italian cooking and then-radical notions of seasonal, local produce.

These philosophies were revived in 2016 by two Basket Range winemakers and a familiar face on Adelaide’s food scene: Anton van Klopper (Lucy Margaux), Jasper Button (Commune of Buttons) and Aaron Fenwick (ex-Orana, who opened The Summertown Aristologist as a restaurant and wine bar with a community focus.

The brief has matured since then but the recipe remains simple: natural wines, humble food and good company. The evolving menu is made up of hyperlocal grazing plates made with ingredients that are either self-grown or sourced from ethical producers. Starters of smallgoods and sourdough (plus the butter) are all made in-house.

The crockery and glassware are handmade, too. Look up for the light shades, which were crafted by glass artist Mandi King from repurposed demijohns.

In 2020 the team opened a cellar door next door, so you can sample the wine before taking it home with you.