Maybe Mae

How have I not discovered this secret bar before now, because it’s through a hidden door!!! Upon entering through the secret door, the setting just oozes warmth, such an inviting atmospheres for guests to enjoy. Soft dimmed lighting, stylish decor, vibey music and comfortable booth seating. Greeted by welcoming Bartenders, who also provided attentive table service throughout the evening. Also the menu is available via scan code, the bar staff are knowledgeable and attentive, guiding us through the menu, answering any questions and offering personalized recommendations. Beyond the ambiance, the focus is on crafting high-quality, diverse cocktails, from classic recipes to unique signature creations. Definitely a recommend spot for a late night drink.

We found the door. We won’t tell you where it is — secrets are part of the charm. But when we slipped through and descended into the underworld of art deco delight, we knew: this wasn’t just a bar. This was the beginning of something. Inside, it was all shadows, brass, and the hum of low conversation. Enter: Alphonso. Charismatic. Commanding. Clad in leopard print and vibes so strong they should be bottled. He didn’t serve us drinks. He served us conviction. Then there was Kobe — the mixology mage. Quiet hands, serious eyes, alchemical talent. The drinks? Divine. But the lychee lolly? Transcendent. Like if a fruit had a secret and whispered it directly to your brain. Every corner of the space oozes intention — smooth walnut wood, lush emerald green leather, a whiff of something forbidden. The art deco design doesn’t scream; it purrs. Please never change it. We beg. We don’t know what time it was when we left. We don’t even know who we are anymore. But we know this: We believe in Alphonso. We trust in Kobe. And we would follow that Spare Change into the dark.

One of the most unique places I have ever been too. The staff and drinks were unbelievable. Every drink was made like a chief prepares a meal; with precision and attention to detail. I was absolutely great and recommend everyone to go to this place!

I love an art deco bar so this was a must visit based on previous reviews. Finding the entrance is a fun little part of the experience. Inside the venue it’s quite dark and bustling making it hard to identify staff and let them know you’ve arrived. I would suggest a reservation as it was super busy. Despite booking in advance, we were seated at the bar, with our uncomfortable seats on a busy throughway. It was quite loud sitting at the bar with the constant repetitions of "yes chef" from behind the bar starting to grate on me. The drinks were well made and reasonably priced. The White Sands and Electric Blue were actually delicious. However, the salt on the outside of the glass of the Pink Cadillac was overwhelming and the King Bee was so strong I couldn’t really get any flavour. The overall vibe made it hard to relax and we didn’t stay for any more than two drinks. Would I return to Maybe Mae? Maybe one day, maybe not.

Haven’t been to maybe Mae for a couple of years, but damn it’s gotten worse. I don’t wan’t to scan a QR code to look at the menu. I goto a bar to socialise and mingle with mates, disconnect from media, not have to bring out my phone to look at a screen of $25+ cocktails? This ruins the atmosphere with everyone staring at a screen. And they used to do complimentary snacks which I didn’t see either. Would have rated 1 star; but the cocktails are half decent still.

When I say hidden, I really do mean hidden. The entrance is just off Peel Street in the same entrance to Bread and Bone but you go downstairs and then the door is hidden in the wall paneling. Once you find the bar you are greeted by welcoming staff who were more than helpful in finding the right cocktail. I did try the Peel Street Corpse Reviver which is definitely worth trying. There are booths to sit in or like us, we sat at the bar. If in Adelaide, you should pop in for at least one.

Phenomenal service. Next to no wait time compared to usual when waiting for cocktails to arrive. Staff highly knowledgeable and friendly. An absolute hidden gem of Adelaide.