South Australia’s best bar named in 2016 AHA awards

LESS than two years ago, it was a dark and dingy Irish pub. Now, after a stunning transformation, this pub — co-owned by two Power stars — has been named the state’s best hotel in the annual awards.

The Moseley Bar and Kitchen was named SA’s best hotel in the 2016 industry awards. Picture: Dean Martin

LESS than two years ago, the property that is now The Moseley Bar & Kitchen was a dark and dingy Irish pub. Now, after a stunning transformation, The Moseley has been named the state’s best hotel.

Owned by Port Adelaide footballers Travis Boak and Robbie Gray, in association with the RD Jones Group, the split-level Glenelg venue took the ultimate accolade last night in the 2016 AHA|SA Hotel Industry Awards for Excellence.

Its overall triumph followed wins in three categories — best bistro metropolitan, best bar presentation and best entertainment venue. It also won three awards in 2015.

Travis Boak and Robbie Gray at The Moseley.

Pink Moon Saloon, which was named best small venue.

The success comes less than a month after the death of Richard Jones, head of the RD Jones group.

“This hotel is successfully catering for a changing and more discerning patron, looking for a high quality, value for money and memorable experience,” said AHA|SA general manager, Ian Horne.

“The AHA|SA congratulates the RD Jones Group for their tremendous win and in particular wishes to acknowledge the enormous contribution of Richard Jones to the development and promotion of the hotel industry over nearly four decades.”

Pink Moon Saloon on Leigh St was named best small venue, an award that acknowledges the popularity of small bars.

Some of the food available at the Moseley.

“With its interesting and quirky design, exceptional customer service and quality food and

beverage, this small venue makes a big impact,” the AHA says.

Other AHA award winners included The Lion Hotel (restaurant — general division), The Playford (restaurant — accommodation division, deluxe hotel accommodation), Hotel Elliot (bistro/casual dining — country), The Highway (live music venue) and The Ibis, Adelaide (mid-range accommodation).

All winners from the AHA|SA Awards will go on to compete in the national awards in September.