Pipers of Penola – Big Flavours in a Little Country Town

Pipers of Penola offer Award-Winning Dining and SA Wines in the South East.
Abbie Tiller

Pipers of Penola – Award-Winning Dining & SA Wines in the South East

Penola’s more than just its Ag Town of the Year crown — it’s home to some seriously impressive food, and Pipers of Penola is leading the charge. Located in the main street of this little South East gem, Pipers is proof that world-class dining doesn’t have to come with big city prices or pomp.

Run by chef Simon Bowen and his partner Erika, Pipers is all about taking top-notch regional produce and turning it into dishes that make locals and visitors alike sit up and take notice. Think roasted Limestone Coast rack of lamb, or Riverine 200-day grain-fed eye fillet of beef, cooked medium-rare with pomme purée, roasted onion, shimeji mushrooms and jus gras — both locally sourced, both guaranteed to please the palate.

And let’s not forget the wines. Pipers pours a big range of South Australian favourites, including gems from the Coonawarra, so you can sip local while you savour local.

The restaurant’s rack of awards keeps growing, most recently nabbing another gong for excellence in Contemporary Australian dining. Add in the rave reviews from diners — who love the relaxed service, inventive menu, and welcoming vibes — and it’s easy to see why people are planning a meal here around a weekend in the region.

Open Wednesday to Saturday from 6pm for dinner, or for a delicious Sunday breakfast from 8:30 to 11am, it’s perfect for a weekend wander around town.

Whether you’re a Penola local or passing through the Coonawarra wine region, a stop at Pipers is a must.