Adelaide’s River Cafe and Red Ochre Barrel + Grill close down
Adelaide's River Cafe and Red Ochre Barrel + Grill have ceased operations immediately. The popular dining destination, known for its stunning River Torrens views, shut its doors permanently on Monday after its owner was unable to secure a long-term lease with the Adelaide City Council.
Executive chef and owner Ray Mauger delivered the news via social media late on Tuesday, stating he had “no other option”.
In a heartfelt message, Mauger wrote, “It has been a long and fabulous ride, but our ability to negotiate a long-term lease with the Adelaide City Council has failed, and we have no other option but to close our doors.”
Mauger extended his gratitude to patrons, saying, “Thank you, thank you for your loyal patronage over so many years.” He reflected on his lengthy career in hospitality, adding, “The hospitality industry has been our passion for over forty years, and who knows where that passion may resurface?"
Mauger indicated a need for respite saying, “For the moment, we need a break to restore and rethink where we belong.”
The two-level venue, comprising the ground-floor River Cafe and its upstairs counterpart, the Red Ochre, has been a fixture on War Memorial Drive since 2008 under Mauger's ownership. The site itself boasts a rich history, having first opened its doors in March 1961 as Ernest’s Bistro and Grill Restaurant. Over the decades, it has operated under various names, including Benjamin’s, The Taipan, and more recently, Cafe Lago, Gekko’s, and Flannigan’s. The venue was previously owned by well-known Adelaide hospitality entrepreneur Bill Sparr.
Jonathan Jackson, 21st May 2025
