Award season tastes even better with The UPPside named finalist in two national dining categories
Penwortham might be one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it towns in the Clare Valley, but whatever you do, don’t blink and miss The UPPside.
This unassuming little restaurant is quietly kicking big goals in the food world, serving up European flavours so good you’ll forget you’re still on South Australian soil.
And now, they’ve got the national recognition to prove it. The UPPside already holds the 2024 title for Best European Restaurant, and now they’re going for back-to-back wins, plus a shot at Best Specialty Restaurant, too. This category recognises venues that offer a distinct or innovative dining experience, often tied to cultural heritage, regional produce, or a unique culinary concept – all boxes The UPPside ticks with its Euro-inspired menu, homegrown ingredients, and strong focus on sustainability.
It’s a massive win for the region, and proof, yet again, that some of Australia’s best food experiences aren’t in the big smoke – they’re right here in country South Australia.
Run by husband-and-wife team Christian and Caity Uppill, The UPPside European Restaurant & Wine Bar brings a little slice of Europe to the Clare Valley – no passport required. While most of us are still dreaming of that foodie trip through France or a long lunch in the Swiss Alps, they’re plating it up in Penwortham. From Poland to Sweden, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands, their hearty, seasonal dishes feature ingredients grown in their own garden or sourced from nearby producers. Oh, and if that isn’t enough, there’s a freshly opened Italian gelati bar for dessert.
“A philosophy we live by is locals supporting locals, showcasing local,” says Christian. “To us, the industry recognition reinforces not only our commitment, but our vision for what we’re building with The UPPside – and for the beautiful region we call home. It’s very humbling.”
There’s no doubt the food’s a knockout – but what sets this place apart is its philosophy. Christian and Caity are proud supporters of the Slow Food movement, which promotes food that’s “good, clean and fair.” It’s about more than what ends up on your plate – it’s about how it’s grown, who grows it, and the broader impact on people and the planet.
Earlier this year, they earned the coveted Snail of Approval, an internationally recognised badge handed out to chefs and producers who live by those principles and promote traditional food culture.
Their connection to Slow Food started back in 2017, when they opened their first restaurant, Il Toro, and began growing produce at Christian’s family farm. After COVID, they returned to the Clare Valley and launched The UPPside in late 2021, and since then, they’ve doubled down on sustainability. From composting and worm farming to solar power, grey water recycling and ethical sourcing, they’re committed to running a restaurant that gives as much as it takes.
The Clare Valley has plenty to be proud of, and The UPPside is leading the way. Finalist in two national awards, with a menu full of heart and a values-driven approach to food, this little restaurant is proving that regional SA isn’t just keeping up with the big guns… it’s outshining them.
Winners will be announced at the Restaurant & Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence in late 2025, so watch this space.
Click here to learn more about The Uppside, and book a seat to take your tastebuds on a tasty trip through Europe.
