Adelaide Arcade has a rich history, harbouring tales spanning generations of trading. It’s also known for providing a solution to any retail emergency.

Best characterised by the quality of its specialist services and products and its convenient location in the centre of the city, Adelaide Arcade is a retail haven, saving many a frantic office worker with a looming gift-giving deadline.

In 1885, a track coined ‘The Adelaide Arcade Polka’ was composed for its opening, a title which perfectly encompasses the rushed jive we’ve done many times through the strip’s boisterous crowds.

Zipping through the arcade, you’ll find outlets offering the perfect present, evening outfit or an emergency alternative to whatever spill, blunder or scatter-brained moment has disrupted your day.

---

 

Have You Met Charlie?

It’s Friday and you’ve only got one lunch break left in which to find the perfect present for your friend’s birthday – head to Have You Met Charlie?

Offering local and international products from jewellery and accessories to home décor and children’s toys, Have You Met Charlie? is the ultimate gift shop for conscious consumers who want to support independent artists.

Founder Lauren Harper says she curates the store with such variety to appeal to a wide demographic.

“Understanding how time poor people are, which I know from personal experience, means that our customers can almost always find something for someone in our stores or online,” she says.

“When we are able to help, it’s so nice to hear people make comments such as ‘This is the perfect gift for them’ or ‘This will make them laugh’ …That means a lot, now more than ever.”

---

 

Manhattan Dry Cleaners

From a quick spruce to removing a stubborn coffee stain, the team at Manhattan Dry Cleaners have built a reputation for being dependable.

Owner Bronwyn Berry says people often take advantage of their 90-minute turnaround, and she appreciates being a part of the arcade’s history.

“It’s a lovely old arcade, we’ve known a lot of the retailers for years and it’s like one big family, really,” Bronwyn says.

She also often receives questions about the ghost rumoured to roam the dry cleaners’ tenancy. 

“We have some strange things every now and then, the odd noise… He was the caretaker, he’s probably still doing his job,” Bronwyn laughs.

---

 

Heirloom

So, your significant other has palmed off present duty to you at the last possible moment, mere hours before you’re supposed to appear at your sophisticated (read: picky) sister-in-law’s housewarming party. Happy days.

Wanting to provide warmth, comfort, and practicality to your in-law’s new home, you head to Heirloom Quality Supplies, located in shop 4G of Gay’s Arcade, where you discover a range of lovely, modest products that emphasise function, including cute crockery and handcrafted quilts.

Crisis averted, but not forgotten.

---

 

Pencraft

There’s always a co-worker known for their stationery stealth – a raider of office supplies. Well, you’ve just realised her last day is approaching and you were meant to organise a parting gift from the team. Look no further than Pencraft. 

The family-owned boutique has been a staple of Adelaide Arcade since 1968, and their beautiful writing instruments and leather products are sure to make a great tool or keepsake for any collector or journal keeper.

“When people buy gifts from us, they’re supporting a family-owned business, which is really lovely,” says Pencraft manager Jana. 

“We’re passionate about handwriting and writing in general… You can also get our pens personalised and engraved which is really nice for something a little more unique.”

 

---

 

Daly Salon

Not only did you find a hat you loved at Adelaide Hatters, but in all the excitement of trying on Stetsons and Tam O’Shanters (you have broad taste), you’ve given yourself a serious case of hat hair.

Why not see if Daly Salon can squeeze you in? Situated in shop 17, they can offer some much-needed relaxation after all that mad dashing, creating a look you’ll love and be able to recreate at home with minimal fuss.

---

 

Food Saves

Visiting the Arcade on your lunch break? Treat yourself at one of the below eateries.

Two-Bit Villains is the perfect place to take your date for a fun feed, alleviating any initial picking panic when you realise they’re vegan. The Nashville ‘chicken’ tenders will impress even the most sceptical carnivore, and the heat packs a punch.

Caffe L’Incontro brings Italy into the heart of the Adelaide CBD, complete with a mouth-watering menu. Owner Federico Strada says the specials are always a great choice, but if you favour a focaccia, their tasty bread is made in house.

Ciao Coffee Bar serves up a deliciously frothy latte, the perfect warmer if you’re on the go. Pair it with a chocolate raspberry brownie to perk up your day.

Katsumoto Japanese Restaurant is a great place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere of the arcade while enjoying a light snack, like their moreish pork dumplings.

The Coffee Spot, located on the ground level of the arcade, have catering available, and can provide an assortment of fresh and tasty gourmet rolls for your next team meeting, and they can even arrange for an extra hand with event planning.

Koko Black is sure to delight any chocolate fan. Sit in and be taken on a signature hot chocolate flight, and pick up a chocolatier’s selection gift box on the way out, as an extra sweet gift for a friend, or just for you.