Star of Greece owner’s class act for British superstar Sam Smith, ahead of d’Arenberg show

The owner of Adelaide’s best beachfront restaurant reveals what Sam Smith was really like – and why she had to rush home for them.

British superstar Sam Smith has dropped in to one of Port Willunga’s premier restaurants and sampled some of the best local produce SA has to offer ahead of an intimate outdoor show.

On Tuesday, Smith took to Star of Greece, perched atop the cliffs at Port Willunga, for a before taking to the beach for a sun-filled dip.

Star of Greece owner Nikki Govan said Smith dined on freshly-caught King George whiting from Port Willunga’s pristine waters, as well as local salt-and-pepper squid, house-made black vinegar almonds and Tasmanian scallops.

In a true show of SA hospitality, Ms Govan – who is currently on a gopher after a knee reconstruction – even ducked home to pick up a cabana and towels for Smith and their party to take down to the sand.

While Star of Greece is no stranger to big-name stars, including legendary rock band Kiss and pop queen Kylie Minogue, Ms Govan said Smith was a “beautiful soul” and one of the kindest celebrities she had hosted.

“Sam was one of the most pleasant, humble and engaging international stars I have had the pleasure to meet and host,” Ms Govan said.

“Their entire team were just incredibly kind, grateful, lovely people – Sam even asked for a photo with Rhi, our waitress who looked after their table.”

welcome back to adelaide @samsmith 🖤#samsmith#gloria#unholypic.twitter.com/58HZBntxdA

— jake (taylor’s version) (@taylorsrep13) January 10, 2023

Star of Greece owner Nikki Govan went above and beyond for her celebrity diner. Picture: Russell Millard

The 30-year-old singer arrived in Adelaide this week for an exclusive performance at the d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale, Smith’s only Australian show on a promotional trip down under.

The 300-person gig is Smith’s first visit to SA since 2015.

Sporting pearl-drop earrings, fishnets and a leather mini, Smith cut a stylish figure as they explored Cleland on Monday.

Their arrival down under was welcomed by Aussie star Courtney Act, who commented on Smith’s Instagram post: “I love a midday in the nature reserve fishnet and crystal tank top moment.”

Smith has been sampling some of South Australia’s best tourism experiences over the past few days – testing wines at Gemtree Wines on the Fleurieu Peninsula and learning the ethos of Kool Tours.

“I met this wonderful man Mark and his daughter (from Kool Tours) who gave us a tour and an understanding of how they as Indigenous people are working with Gem Tree Winery to work on the land and to do what’s best for the earth around and teach everyone the way of the Indigenous,” Smith said.

“And it was such a beautiful, beautiful time, I learnt so much. We had a smoking ceremony which was so beautiful, And had some incredible food.

“I love seeing any sort of nature being nurtured in that way.”

Smith, who grew up in the English countryside, said the experience reminded them of their desire to remain connected to nature.

British star Sam Smith has visited Cleland Wildlife Park as part of an exclusive trip to SA. Picture: Instagram/Sam Smith

Smith was glowing among SA’s wildlife. Picture: Instagram/Sam Smith

“I always felt really very connected to everything, I sometimes feel that we need to keep trying so hard to keep connected to the earth and nature around us because it’s so filled with abundance of everything we need,” Smith said.

“The wonderful (Mark) was saying that you should choose one animal or one living thing in life and make it your job in your life to look after that one thing and it was such a beautiful concept. I just got tortoises for Christmas so I’m going to do that.”

Smith’s exclusive performance for 300 people is part of a collaboration with the SA Tourism Commission, designed to showcase the state to Smith’s social media following of more than 35 million globally.

“I’ve only ever been in the city before and the surrounding countryside is just incredible,” Smith said.

“Australia has always been one of my favourite places to tour. I’ve always felt like I’ve had such a beautiful, warm response.”

Smith’s unique d’Arenberg event is part of a collaboration with the SA Tourism Commission, designed to showcase the state to Smith’s social media following of more than 35 million globally.

The Cube has turned heads since it was launched in December 2017, collecting eight state and national design and tourism prizes, and attracted more than a million visitors.

Smith is the latest celebrity to explore the sights of SA, following tennis star Novak Djokovic’s action-packed Adelaide sojourn while in town for the Adelaide International.

Novak Djokovic dining at Estia Henley, pictured with Estia managers Ethan Chang and Mario Lelas. Picture: Supplied

Djokovic won his 92nd ATP title at Memorial Drive on Sunday night and in the aftermath, the Serbian tennis star was quick to praise the hospitality he received at one of Adelaide’s premier designer hotels.

The 21-time grand slam champion made himself right at home at Sequoia at Mount Lofty Estate during his 12-day stay for the Adelaide International.

The luxurious lodge, which is home to the award-winning restaurant Hardy’s Verandah, have their Sequoia Suites starting from $1899 per night.

Djokovic’s movements while in the city were well documented, including multiple visits to Henley Beach and popular CBD restaurant Africola.