Welcome to Meet The Elite, where we let you in on the lives of some of our top community members. Today we meet Gemma W, a Yelp Elite since ’14 with a whopping 81 reviews and counting.
Why did you start yelping?
It really began as a love for my city and a desire to find the newest, coolest places in town. I stumbled upon Yelp one day when I was looking for events around Adelaide and I never looked back! After reading other people’s reviews, I wanted to be able to contribute my own thoughts and tell people what I love about my city too.
Why is it “Sweet to be Elite”?
Being Elite is like being part of a secret club where all the members get excited about the same things I do–great food, fun events and good times! Being part of the Elite crew has helped me to make new friends, find new businesses, and be involved in experiences that I never would have had the opportunity.
What’s your favourite local business and why?
It’s so hard to narrow it down to one as there are so many amazing local places in Adelaide! One of my favourite secret places is Kappy’s Tea and Coffee on Compton St. The owner Simon is an absolute wealth of knowledge when it comes to tea and coffee. He’s also passionate about being ethical and making sure his teas and coffees are of the highest quality. The centrepiece of the shop is an amazing 1920s coffee roaster, which is worth seeing in action as it is one of only a few in Australia. I love spending a few hours here with a big plunger of tea and a book, sitting in one of the big wingback chairs.
Why should someone visit Adelaide?
Adelaide is often overlooked when people are planning trips in Australia but we have so much to offer. Our produce is some of the best in Australia, if not the world! There are constantly new businesses popping up down little laneways and you will find amazing chefs who are innovative in what they offer. We have a great arts and performing arts community, world class sporting venues and, of course, the beautiful churches! Adelaide always has something going on and you will never be short of amazing places to eat and drink.
Describe your ideal day in Adelaide.
I’d start with a coffee (at Kappy’s, of course) before heading across the road to the Adelaide Central Markets for breakfast at resident superstar from Masterchef Poh Ling Yeou’s Jamface. Then, a wander through the markets to try all the cheeses at the Smelly Cheese Shop!
Afterwards, I’d jump onto the tram for a free ride down to North Terrace to meander through the Art Gallery, Museum, and State Library.
By then of course I’d be hungry again, so I’d head over to the East End for the most amazing Afghan dumplings at Kutchi Deli Parwana. After that there would be some time for a relaxing walk through the Botanic Gardens before taking in a musical, ballet, or cabaret show at the Adelaide Festival Centre. Finally, I would finish the day with a delicious array of shared plates and a cocktail in hand, watching the sun set over Adelaide Oval on the rooftop at 2KW.
About the Yelp Elite Squad: The Yelp Elite Squad is our way of recognizing people who are active in the Yelp community – people who are role models both on and off the site. Elite-worthiness is based on a number of things, including well-written reviews, high quality tips, a detailed personal profile, an active voting and complimenting record, and a history of playing well with others. Elites must use their real name on their account, have a real (and clear!) profile photo, and be of legal drinking age in their country. You can read more, and even nominate yourself at yelp.com.au/elite
