On Saturday 29 August, Kangaroo Island’s American River will host Smoke on the Water, a roaming seafood feast from KI Oysters and Place Dining, led by acclaimed South Australian chef Kane Pollard.
For $110 per person, guests feast on fresh, smoked and flame-grilled KI oysters, miso grilled squid, a hearty seafood chowder and a honey and saltbush s’more, paired with wine from Spring Seed Wine and False Cape. Oysters are harvested metres away and cooked live over open fire, with waterfront views from 1pm to 4pm. Tickets are limited and available now via Humanitix.
“American River has some of the best oysters in the country, and this event is about celebrating that, cooking them the way they deserve, right where they’re grown, over an open fire,” said Chef Kane Pollard.
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is the natural base for the weekend. Guests booking a stay over the weekend (minimum two nights) can enter code MKI20 under “Special offer” in booking screen to redeem 20% off, subject to availability. Arrive Friday, enjoy Smoke on the Water on Saturday, and spend Sunday exploring the island, without the pressure of a same-day return crossing. Book at www.kilodge.com.au.
Kingscote and Penneshaw might be the island’s usual first stops, but American River deserves a weekend of its own. Home to Kangaroo Island’s oyster leases, calm waters and abundant birdlife, it’s a quieter alternative. Smoke on the Water gives visitors a reason to base themselves here, rather than just pass through.
