Mt Barker Corner Takeaway closes as roundabout upgrade looms

A popular Adelaide Hills food store has served its final meal after 11 years, making way for a $40m roundabout upgrade that will transform the busy intersection.

Mt Barker Corner Takeaway closed on Tuesday to make way for a multimillion-dollar roundabout upgrade. Picture: Morgan Sette

A popular Adelaide Hills takeaway store has shut its doors as the site faces demolition to make way for a multimillion-dollar roundabout upgrade.

Mt Barker Corner Takeaway sits on the Adelaide Rd and Alexandrina Rd roundabout, and is a popular among both the residents of the booming Hills town and the students from nearby Mt Barker High School.

Sami El Ghossini and wife Rachel Hassan owned the shop for 11 years, with Rachel posting an emotional farewell message on Facebook several days before it closed for the final time on Tuesday.

Rachel Hassan, co-owner of Mt Barker Corner Takeaway. Picture: Morgan Sette

“After 11 years of operation in this community, building friendships and serving good food we are heartbroken to announce the last day of operation will be Tuesday 29th July,” Ms Hassan said.

“We are still processing this next chapter and hope to be back stronger and committed in the near future.”

Ms Hassan thanked their loyal customers for their support, saying every “hello” and “good job” kept them going.

“We will be forever grateful for the 11 years and will miss every moment.”

The Corner Takeaway site is being acquired by the government for a $40 million upgrade of the Adelaide Rd roundabout.

A Department for Infrastructure and Transport spokesperson told The Advertiser in June that major works on the project are expected to begin in September, with completion estimated for mid-2026.

The concept design for the Mount Barker roundabout upgrade.

The Mount Barker roundabout that will be upgraded and enlarged under a $40m plan.

“The Department has been communicating with both the property owner and the business operator and his legal representative throughout the land acquisition process and has engaged an independent property relocation advocate to assist him with his search for an alternative property,” the spokesperson said.

“No other businesses or residents will need to vacate as a result of the project.”

“This project is a significant investment in required road infrastructure with Mount Barker expected to become South Australia’s second largest city in coming years.”

“We acknowledge that compulsory acquisition is a difficult process, and we are committed to working sensitively, confidentially and collaboratively with those who are impacted.”

Customers expressed their sadness at the store’s closure, with one calling it a “Mt Barker icon”.

“Was always the tuck shop for high school back in the 70’s 80’s great food and has changed hands many times over but still always been the best .. Will be sadly missed,” they said.

“Best of luck for your next chapter team,” another wrote.