Applications open to use historic Chesser Cellars in the CBD

CHESSER Cellars once prided itself on its historic links to SA’s business and government communities before closing in 2012. Now it’s back, on offer to tenants for a rent-free lease.

8/2/16 Renew Adelaide's Lily Jacobs at the old Chesser Cellars space. Picture by Matt Turner.

CHESSER Cellars once prided itself on its historic links to SA’s business and government communities before closing its doors in 2012.

Now it will open them to a new generation of business owners as Renew Adelaide offers the former restaurant to tenants under a rent-free lease set to rejuvenate the once popular Chesser St.

Applications have now opened for the space, which incorporates a 10,000-bottle cellar in the basement, a split-level restaurant, commercial kitchen and cool room.

It also comes with a unique liquor licence.

It prevents the sale of any beer on tap, but allows the venue to serve all other liquor from 9am-10pm, except Sundays, and religious holidays, but can serve alcohol later than 10pm with meals.

There is also a provision to sell takeaway alcohol (other than flagons or casks) from the premises, making the property tempting for a cellar door or distiller.

But don’t expect to rock out to a live band — that style of live music is banned, along with “discotheques” — however a two-piece jazz band is acceptable after 11am.

Renew Adelaide chief executive Lily Jacobs said entrepreneurs have a fantastic opportunity with the heritage space and even the chance to design a new city hub with multiple businesses.

“It’s a really special place that hasn’t changed in a long time,” she said.

“Here, a few groups or businesses can utilise the space and I’m interested in seeing who and what comes together.

Ms Jacobs said the property could be the start of something big along the Chesser St.

“We tend to plant the seed and see the opportunities grow,” she said.

“That’s what we hope will happen with this one and have it become a great kick-starter for the area.”

An open inspection of the site is being conducted on February 15 at 4pm, applications close on February 28 and an announcement of the successful tenant will be made on March 7.