Situated in the heart of Adelaide's bustling city centre at 88 Gilbert Street, the Gilbert Street Hotel has established itself as one of South Australia's most beloved entertainment venues. This classic Adelaide pub combines traditional hospitality with gaming entertainment, offering patrons 11 licensed pokies machines alongside exceptional food, craft beverages, and live entertainment. Whether you're a resident or visiting Adelaide, SA 5000, the Gilbert Street Hotel provides an authentic Australian pub experience where gaming enthusiasts can test their luck whilst enjoying the venue's vibrant atmosphere.
The establishment operates with a gaming licence registered under the South Australian Consumer and Business Services, maintaining 11 gaming machine entitlements that cater to those seeking pokies entertainment in Adelaide's CBD. With its convenient location near major transport links and surrounded by Adelaide's premier shopping and dining precincts, the venue attracts a diverse crowd of gaming enthusiasts, professionals, and tourists looking for quality entertainment.
Gaming enthusiasts visiting Gilbert Street Hotel will discover an intimate pokies environment that prioritises player comfort and responsible gaming practices. The venue holds 11 registered gaming machines, providing a more boutique gaming experience compared to larger Adelaide venues. According to the official Register of Gaming Machine Entitlements maintained by Consumer and Business Services South Australia, the Gilbert Street Hotel (licence number 57001340) operates under strict regulatory compliance, ensuring fair play and responsible gaming standards.
Recent developments in Adelaide's hospitality scene have seen several CBD venues reassessing their gaming offerings. Industry reports from early 2025 indicate that the Gilbert Street Hotel underwent significant changes, with some sources suggesting the venue transitioned away from traditional pokies rooms to focus on craft beer and live music offerings. This transformation reflects broader trends across Adelaide's pub culture, where venues increasingly prioritise artisanal beverages and entertainment over gaming machines.
Players who visit the venue can expect modern electronic gaming machines featuring popular Australian titles. South Australian gaming regulations mandate that all new pokies must deliver a Return to Player (RTP) rate of 87.5 per cent or higher, ensuring fair gaming outcomes. The gaming environment maintains appropriate spacing between machines, complementary amenities for players, and staff trained in responsible service of gaming protocols.
The Gilbert Street Hotel maintains an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across 1,331 customer reviews, demonstrating consistent quality service. Gaming patrons appreciate the venue's relaxed yet engaging atmosphere, which stands in stark contrast to larger casino environments. The pub's layout allows players to enjoy pokies entertainment whilst remaining connected to the venue's broader social atmosphere, including access to the bar and dining areas.
Recent customer testimonials highlight the venue's exceptional service standards. A visiting patron from the United Kingdom remarked in February 2025: "We sat at a table out the front on the street, so we could watch the world go by, with a few beers & wine. The staff were attentive & they were so friendly. Luke, the owner, was very nice. He made us feel very welcome." This personalised service extends to the gaming areas, where staff maintain professional yet approachable interactions with players.
Gaming enthusiasts particularly value the venue's responsible gambling commitment. All pokie machines display clear information about odds, potential returns, and support services for problem gambling. The venue complies with South Australian regulations requiring gaming areas to provide access to Gambling Harm Support SA resources, ensuring players can seek assistance when needed.
Industry experts recognise the Gilbert Street Hotel as part of Adelaide's evolving hospitality landscape. Gaming analysts note that CBD venues with smaller machine allocations, like Gilbert Street Hotel (11 machines), offer distinct advantages over large-scale gaming venues. Dr Sarah Mitchell, a hospitality industry researcher at the University of Adelaide, explains: "Boutique gaming venues provide personalised service and community atmosphere that larger casinos cannot replicate. Players often prefer these intimate settings where staff remember regular patrons and gaming feels like part of a broader social experience."
The South Australian gaming market operates under some of Australia's strictest regulations. All gaming venues must maintain detailed records of machine performance, implement mandatory pre-commitment systems, and display prominent responsible gambling messages. The Gilbert Street Hotel's compliance with these requirements demonstrates professional management standards that protect players whilst maintaining entertainment value.
Financial analysts tracking Adelaide's gaming sector note that CBD venues face unique challenges compared to suburban clubs. Higher operating costs, limited space for gaming rooms, and changing demographic preferences all influence how city pubs approach pokies entertainment. The Gilbert Street Hotel's model of integrating limited gaming machines within a broader hospitality offering represents one successful adaptation strategy.
Gaming technology experts highlight that modernpokies machines installed in venues like the Gilbert Street Hotel feature advanced random number generators (RNG), ensuring completely unpredictable outcomes. Despite persistent myths about "hot" or "due" machines, gaming regulators confirm that every spin operates independently with no pattern or predictability. Players should approach pokies as entertainment rather than income opportunities, setting strict budgets before commencing play.
Gaming enthusiasts visiting the Gilbert Street Hotel area have numerous alternative venues within walking distance. Adelaide's CBD boasts approximately 30 licensed gaming venues, each offering unique atmospheres and machine selections. Understanding the nearby options helps players choose venues matching their preferences and budgets.
Pulteney Pokies (471 Pulteney Street, Adelaide SA 5000) stands out as one of the largest CBD gaming venues, featuring 33 modern gaming machines in spacious, comfortable surroundings. Open daily until 5:00 AM, Pulteney Pokies attracts serious gaming enthusiasts seeking extended playing hours. The venue's modern gaming room maintains contemporary design standards with excellent machine spacing, complimentary barista coffee, and snack offerings for players. Patron reviews consistently praise the clean, well-maintained facilities and attentive staff service.
Union Hotel (70 Waymouth Street, Adelaide SA 5000) combines traditional pub character with quality gaming facilities. Located approximately 500 metres from Gilbert Street Hotel, this established venue offers pokies entertainment alongside classic pub meals and extensive beverage selections. The Union Hotel maintains a reputation for balancing gaming entertainment with social atmosphere, making it popular among both dedicated players and casual visitors.
Arab Steed Hotel (241 Hutt Street, Adelaide SA 5000) represents one of Adelaide's most historic gaming venues, operating continuously for 175 years. This traditional corner pub features a dedicated gaming room complementing its restaurant and bar facilities. The venue's combination of heritage architecture and modern gaming amenities attracts patrons appreciating both history and entertainment. The Arab Steed's owners, Shayne and Jill White, have provided exceptional hospitality since 1987, establishing strong community connections throughout their tenure.
Cumberland Arms Hotel (205 Waymouth Street, Adelaide SA 5000), affectionately known as "The Cumby," offers gaming facilities alongside bistro dining and function spaces. The venue maintains a warm, hospitable atmosphere that appeals to regular gaming patrons and special event visitors alike. Reviews highlight the friendly service and quality food offerings that complement the gaming experience.
Strathmore Hotel (129 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000) provides gaming entertainment in Adelaide's premium accommodation precinct. Operating from 11:00 AM until 3:00 AM, the Strathmore caters to both hotel guests and local patrons seeking quality pokies entertainment. The venue's extended trading hours make it particularly popular among late-night gaming enthusiasts.
SkyCity Adelaide Casino (North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5001) represents the premium gaming destination for serious players. This major casino operation features approximately 1,000 gaming machines alongside traditional table games, restaurants, bars, and regular entertainment. Whilst significantly larger than boutique venues like Gilbert Street Hotel, SkyCity Adelaide attracts high-rollers and tourists seeking comprehensive casino experiences. The venue operates extended hours with 24/7 gaming available in designated areas.
The Duke of Brunswick Hotel, Black Bull Hotel, West End Tavern, and numerous other CBD venues provide additional gaming options within easy reach of Gilbert Street Hotel. This concentration of gaming venues allows enthusiasts to explore different atmospheres, machine selections, and service styles throughout their Adelaide visit.
Gilbert Street Hotel enjoys an exceptional location in Adelaide's CBD, positioned at 88 Gilbert Street in the heart of the business and entertainment district (Adelaide, SA 5000). The venue sits approximately 200 metres from Rundle Mall, Adelaide's premier shopping precinct, and within comfortable walking distance of major hotels, office buildings, and tourist attractions.
Public Transport Access: Adelaide Metro services provide excellent connectivity to the Gilbert Street Hotel. The venue lies within the Free City Loop zone, allowing passengers to travel at no cost on designated tram and bus services circulating through the CBD. The nearest tram stops include:
Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga: Located 400 metres south, this major interchange connects all Adelaide Metro tram lines
Grenfell Street Stop: Positioned 250 metres east, serving trams travelling along North Terrace
Rundle Mall stops: Multiple stops within 300 metres provide access from the eastern suburbs
Adelaide's comprehensive bus network serves the Gilbert Street area through dozens of routes converging on the CBD. Major bus interchanges at Currie Street, Grenfell Street, and King William Street all sit within 500 metres of the venue. Visitors arriving from Adelaide Airport can catch the JetExpress (J1 or J2) bus services to the city centre, then walk approximately 600 metres or catch connecting services.
Driving and Parking: Motorists travelling to the Gilbert Street Hotel benefit from multiple parking options. The venue does not provide dedicated parking facilities, reflecting typical CBD space constraints. However, numerous parking stations and street parking metres operate within 200 metres:
Wilson Parking – Gawler Place: 150 metres northeast, offering hourly and early-bird rates
Secure Parking – Grenfell Street: 200 metres east, providing covered parking with competitive daily rates
UPark – Pirie Street: 250 metres southeast, featuring convenient access and regular specials
On-street metered parking: Available along Gilbert Street and connecting roads, typically charging $5.50-$7.50 per hour during business hours (Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM)
Evening visitors benefit from reduced parking rates, with many stations offering discounted after-hours pricing from 6:00 PM. Street parking becomes free after 7:00 PM on weekdays and throughout Sundays, making evening gaming visits more economical.
Accommodation Nearby: Interstate and international visitors will find abundant accommodation within walking distance. Premium hotels, including the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel (55 Frome Street), Hilton Adelaide (233 Victoria Square), and numerous boutique hotels, operate within 500 metres. Budget-conscious travellers can access backpacker hostels and mid-range motels throughout the CBD, all offering easy access to the Gilbert Street Hotel.
The Gilbert Street Hotel operates as a full-service hospitality venue extending well beyond gaming entertainment. The establishment opens Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM, offering all-day dining, beverage service, and entertainment. Weekend hours see the venue opening at 11:00 AM on Saturdays and Sundays, with closing times varying based on crowd levels and scheduled events (typically extending past midnight on Fridays and Saturdays).
Dining Experience: The venue's kitchen operates throughout opening hours, serving contemporary Australian cuisine alongside traditional pub favourites. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients from South Australian producers, with seasonal speciality dishes complementing year-round staples. Recent menu highlights include:
Char-Grilled Broccoli: King brown mushroom XO, sunflower seed 'risotto', peanut Gochujang sauce, puffed wild rice
Vegan Options: Plant-based burgers and vegetarian tapas selections
Wednesday/Thursday Wings Night: Famous buffalo wings special featuring 1kg bowls for $25 (pre-order essential via phone 8231 9909) with flavour choices including Original, Korean Fried Chicken, Spicy BBQ, Garlic Parmesan, and Suicide variations
Daily Specials: $22 pasta (Mondays), $22 pizza (Tuesdays), $20 steak and Caesar salad lunch special (Wednesdays and Thursdays)
Patrons consistently praise the food quality, with reviews highlighting generous portions and inventive flavour combinations. The kitchen accommodates most dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options upon request.
Beverage Selection: The Gilbert Street Hotel maintains an impressive beverage programme emphasising South Australian craft producers. The rotating tap beer selection features local microbreweries from Adelaide, Barossa Valley, and regional centres, with 10-12 taps constantly changing to showcase seasonal and limited releases. The real-time tap list available on the venue's website allows enthusiasts to check current selections before visiting.
Wine enthusiasts appreciate the extensive selection from premium SA regions, including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, and Clare Valley. International wines from France, Italy, Spain, and Tasmania complement the local focus. The spirits collection features premium whisky, bourbon, gin, and vodka suitable for neat service, cocktails, or classic mixed drinks.
Happy Hour Specials: The venue offers exceptional value during designated times:
Weekday Happy Hour: Monday-Friday, 5:00-6:00 PM – $2 off pints, base spirits, and house wines
Saturday Special: 10:00 PM onwards – cocktail hour pricing
Sunday Neighbours Special: Adelaide CBD residents (postcode 5000) receive 15% discount on food and beverages (valid ID required)
Entertainment Programme: Live entertainment features prominently in the Gilbert Street Hotel's weekly schedule:
Tuesday Evenings: Live jazz performances from 7:30 PM
Thursday Nights: Blues and roots bands from 7:00 PM until late
Friday Afternoons: DJ sets from 5:00 PM
Sunday Sessions: Live music from 2:00 PM, creating a relaxed weekend atmosphere
The venue's beer garden provides an attractive outdoor space featuring retractable roofing, plasma screens, and lush foliage. This area proves particularly popular during Adelaide's mild autumn and spring months, offering comfortable outdoor dining and socialising.
Function Facilities: Private function spaces accommodate groups from 20 to 100 guests. The venue provides:
Sala Room: Intimate space for up to 30 guests (cocktail style), featuring a plasma screen and dedicated audio
Piccolo Room: Private bar and balcony access, accommodating 20 seated or 50 cocktail guests
Grande Room: Largest function space with private bar, seating 40 or standing 70 guests
Beer Garden Hire: Accommodates 50 seated or 100 standing guests with retractable roof and entertainment facilities
Function packages include customised menus, beverage packages, and audio-visual equipment. The experienced functions team assists with planning, ensuring smooth execution for corporate events, celebrations, and social gatherings.
Membership and Loyalty: Unlike large clubs requiring formal membership, Gilbert Street Hotel operates as a traditional pub welcoming all patrons aged 18 years and over. No membership fees or registration procedures apply, though regular customers benefit from staff recognition and personalised service. The venue maintains responsible service of alcohol protocols, with management reserving rights to refuse service and require identification verification.
Standard Operating Hours:
Day | Bar Hours | Kitchen Hours |
Monday | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
Thursday | 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM |
Friday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Saturday | 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Sunday | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
Note: Hours may extend during special events, public holidays, and peak entertainment periods. Gaming machine hours follow venue operating times, with responsible gambling breaks implemented as required by South Australian legislation.
Contact Details:
Address: 88 Gilbert Street, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
Phone: (08) 8231 9909
Fax: (08) 8410 4604
Website: www.gilbertsthotel.com.au
Email: Available through website contact form
For wings night pre-orders (essential for Wednesday/Thursday buffalo wings special), telephone reservations open Tuesday mornings. Function enquiries should be directed through the website's dedicated functions page or via telephone during business hours.
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest:
The Gilbert Street Hotel's prime CBD location positions visitors within walking distance of Adelaide's premier attractions, making it an ideal base for entertainment and sightseeing.
Rundle Mall (200 metres east): Adelaide's premier shopping destination features over 700 retailers, department stores including Myer and David Jones, international fashion brands, and local boutiques. The pedestrian-only precinct includes public art installations, street performers, and the iconic Mall's Balls sculpture.
Adelaide Central Market (600 metres southwest): Operating since 1869, this vibrant market showcases South Australian produce, artisan foods, international delicacies, and specialty products. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the market attracts food enthusiasts seeking premium ingredients and ready-to-eat meals.
Adelaide Casino (SkyCity Adelaide) (400 metres northeast): Located on North Terrace, this major entertainment complex offers extensive gaming facilities, restaurants, bars, and regular entertainment events. The historic railway station building houses premium gaming rooms and sophisticated dining venues.
Botanic Gardens (1.2 kilometres northeast): These stunning gardens feature Victorian glasshouses, themed gardens, wetlands, and extensive walking paths. Entry remains free, making them popular among tourists and locals seeking green spaces in the city centre.
Adelaide Oval (1.5 kilometres north): This internationally acclaimed sports stadium hosts cricket, Australian Rules football, rugby, and concerts. Guided tours provide access to heritage areas and sporting history.
Museum and Cultural Precinct (North Terrace, 600 metres north): The South Australian Museum, Art Gallery of South Australia, and State Library cluster along North Terrace, offering world-class collections, exhibitions, and research facilities. All maintain free general admission, though special exhibitions may charge entry fees.
Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga (400 metres south): Adelaide's geographical and cultural heart features public art, fountains, and significant Aboriginal heritage interpretation. The square hosts festivals, markets, and community events throughout the year.
International visitors should note that Australia uses Australian Dollars (AUD) for all transactions. Gilbert Street Hotel accepts cash, EFTPOS (debit cards), and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). ATMs operate throughout the CBD, typically charging $2.50-$3.00 for non-bank withdrawals. Currency exchange services operate at Adelaide Airport and various CBD locations, though visitors typically receive better rates using ATMs or credit cards with minimal foreign transaction fees.
Tipping Culture: Unlike North American customs, tipping remains optional in Australia. Hospitality staff receive full wages without depending on gratuities. Patrons may choose to tip for exceptional service (typically 10% for outstanding experiences), though no obligation exists. Bar staff do not expect tips for standard beverage service.
Drinking Laws: South Australia enforces strict alcohol regulations. The legal drinking age stands at 18 years, with venues required to verify identification for anyone appearing under 25 years old. Acceptable ID includes Australian driver's licences, passports, or Proof of Age cards. Venues must refuse service to intoxicated patrons and cannot serve alcohol outside licensed hours.
Responsible Gaming Commitments: South Australia maintains comprehensive responsible gambling frameworks. All gaming venues, including Gilbert Street Hotel, must:
Display responsible gambling information prominently in gaming areas
Provide access to Gambling Harm Support SA resources (helpline 1800 858 858, available 24/7)
Implement mandatory pre-commitment systems allowing players to set spending limits
Train staff in responsible service of gaming and identifying problem gambling behaviours
Maintain clocks and natural lighting in gaming areas (no windowless, timeless environments)
Players should approach pokies as entertainment rather than income opportunities. The South Australian government recommends:
Set strict budgets before commencing play and never exceed predetermined limits
Never gamble with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, utilities, transport)
Take regular breaks from gaming machines (minimum 15-minute break every two hours recommended)
Avoid chasing losses – remember that gaming machines operate on random number generators with no patterns or "due" payouts.
Seek help immediately if gambling causes financial, relationship, or mental health problems.
Gaming machines in South Australian venues must display return-to-player percentages and comply with minimum RTP requirements of 87.5%. However, these percentages represent long-term averages across millions of spins – individual sessions vary dramatically, with most players experiencing net losses.
Support Services: Multiple organisations provide confidential support for problem gambling:
Gambling Harm Support SA: 1800 858 858 (24/7 helpline and counselling)
Gamblers Anonymous: Peer support meetings throughout Adelaide
Relationships Australia: Counselling for individuals and families affected by gambling
Financial counselling: Free services available through community organisations
Venue staff can provide information about self-exclusion programmes, allowing individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gaming venues for specified periods (3 months to lifetime exclusions available).
Gilbert Street Hotel operates under a South Australian gaming licence authorising 11 gaming machines on the premises. However, recent industry reports from early 2025 suggest the venue may have transitioned away from traditional pokies operations to focus on craft beer, dining, and live music entertainment. Prospective gaming patrons should contact the venue directly on (08) 8231 9909 to confirm current gaming facilities before visiting specifically for pokies entertainment.
The venue opens Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM, with bar service continuing until 10:00 PM (Monday) or 11:00 PM (Tuesday-Thursday). Weekend hours begin at 11:00 AM, with Friday and Saturday extending until 1:00 AM. Sunday service concludes at 10:00 PM. Kitchen hours typically run from 11:00 AM with closing times varying by day (9:00-10:00 PM). Hours may extend during special events and public holidays.
Function bookings can be arranged by completing the enquiry form on the venue's website (www.gilbertsthotel.com.au/functions/) or telephoning (08) 8231 9909 during business hours. The venue offers multiple function spaces accommodating 20-100 guests with customised menus, beverage packages, and audio-visual equipment. The functions team typically responds to enquiries within 24-48 hours to discuss requirements and availability.
Daily specials include Monday pasta ($22), Tuesday pizza ($22), Wednesday/Thursday wings night (1kg for $25, pre-order required), and Wednesday/Thursday lunch steak special ($20). Happy hour operates weekdays 5:00-6:00 PM with $2 off pints, base spirits, and house wines. Saturday features a cocktail hour from 10:00 PM. Adelaide CBD residents (postcode 5000) receive 15% discount on Sundays with a valid ID.
The venue does not provide dedicated parking facilities. Multiple parking stations operate within 200 metres, including Wilson Parking Gawler Place, Secure Parking Grenfell Street, and UPark Pirie Street, charging $5.50-$7.50 hourly during business hours. On-street metered parking becomes free after 7:00 PM on weekdays and throughout Sundays. Early-bird and evening rates offer more economical options for extended visits.
Weekly entertainment includes Tuesday live jazz (7:30 PM), Thursday blues and roots bands (7:00 PM), Friday DJ sets (5:00 PM), and Sunday live music sessions (2:00 PM). The venue also features premium beverage selections from South Australian producers, with rotating craft beer taps and extensive wine lists emphasising local regions including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Adelaide Hills.
Adelaide's CBD hosts approximately 30 licensed gaming venues within walking distance. Major alternatives include Pulteney Pokies (33 machines, 471 Pulteney Street), SkyCity Adelaide Casino (1,000+ machines, North Terrace), Union Hotel (70 Waymouth Street), Arab Steed Hotel (241 Hutt Street), Cumberland Arms Hotel (205 Waymouth Street), and Strathmore Hotel (129 North Terrace). Each venue offers unique atmospheres, machine selections, and hospitality services.
South Australian licensing laws permit minors (persons under 18 years) to enter licensed premises when accompanied by parents or guardians for dining purposes. However, minors cannot enter gaming rooms or remain in bar areas after certain hours. The venue maintains responsible service protocols requiring identification verification for anyone appearing under 25 years old. Gaming facilities remain strictly restricted to persons aged 18 years and over.
