If the last time you’ve seen a general store was in a movie, it’s definitely time to pack your bags for a road trip. Location – Port Hughes. First Stop – the General Store! Holidaying *anywhere* on Yorke Peninsula? You need to look this magical little place up and visit, it’s that good, worth the drive and you will undoubtedly make some family memories here.
A general store has historically been the bread and butter of small-town life across most of country Australia. A stop where you could find pretty much whatever you needed all in one place! Local communities and surrounding rural areas relied on these shops for groceries, fuel, mail, a bag of mixed lollies or an ice cream for lucky kids and maybe fishing bait + tackle in beachside locations like this one. They were used as gathering places where neighbours could exchange news, gossip and check in on each other. These days – other than inflation and a decent glow up, not much has changed. Here at PH Gen, or The Genny, as it is affectionately known on the Copper Coast, both locals and travellers can soak in the atmosphere and charm of this small-town gem where community and great food come together. It’s a fabulous and hugely popular stop for many, and word is out!
Port Hughes General Store has skyrocketed into the spotlight as a food, coffee and services hub since local owners Saskia and Luke Pridham took over the management bang on one year ago, and honestly, they have been kicking goals ever since. Little wonder once you meet them and realise how friendly and helpful they are, so refreshing to have such progressive, bright happy people in business, honestly.
Offering up million dollar views, situated just steps away from iconic South Beach, Port Hughes Jetty, boat ramp and playground. Open from 6am until dinner time – these guys know hard work. The sunsets over the water here are next level good and given all of the coastline on Yorkes, when you actually think about it, there is absolutely nothing that compares to this in offering + water views.
One side of the store is for food and beverage and the other for quick purchases of goods and services, complete with some of the cutest local merch and beach accessories we have ever seen. The stores focus is on stocking and supporting local SA made products including Golden North, Fleurieu Milk Company and Nippy’s to mention a few. The building also serves as a local post office and petrol station.
When you come to the General Store, come hungry. One of the main draws is the sun-filled attached cafe with large windows giving view to the water. This quaint yet bustling space offers welcome shelter on the winter days.
An absolute must-try is their popular beach brekkie served in a frying pan (pictured below) and if you are lucky, ask if they have the rainbow pancake special!
The outdoor seating on the deck surrounded by the ocean air is proof that the greatest cafes don’t have to be glitzy, heavily-marketed upscale venues. In fact, the Port Hughes General Store wonderfully captures the essence of what makes a classic country staple, with a side of rustic coastal vibes.
There’s also a huge uncomplicated takeaway menu available all day, and if the constant stream of customers we witnessed over the course of a weekend is any thing to go by, we are not alone in thinking it’s every bit worthy of praise. Try the breakfast rolls, schnitzel pack or fish and chips!
What a beautiful place – I can hardly wait to return!
Port Hughes General Store
Location: 2 Minnie Terrace, Port Hughes
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm, 7 days a week
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