From daylight on Friday morning to close of business on Saturday night, Murray Street was awash with coffee and cold drinks leading the charge out of the dining establishments.

The BUPA Challenge ride and Stage 4 of the Santos Tour Down Under on Friday followed by the Cruise On hot rod show on Saturday proved an economic goldmine.

Every café business along Murray Street reported outstanding sales figures as food and drinks were replaced nearly as quickly as they put on sale.

Apex Bakery took more than double its normal takings for a Friday and shop manager Corey Fechner said it was the shop’s biggest day ever.

“We struggled - we weren’t anticipating that many people,” he said.

“Last time the finish was here in Tanunda, the Bupa Challenge wasn’t here.

“We were packed four or five deep from 11am to 3pm. They emptied the drinks fridge twice.”

John Radzevicius, of Die Barossa Wurst Haus, said the two events back-to-back had been tremendous for Tanunda.

“It is no secret times have been tough in all businesses but the Tour Down Under followed by Cruise On was fantastic,” John said. “Without doubt it was one of the best days in my 16 years here - it was something the Barossa needed.”

Alex Mudge, from Nosh, said Friday had been a record trade day.

“There was a tremendous atmosphere - simply fantastic,” Alex said.

“Cruise On wasn’t quite as busy but still a very good day.”

Keils was another business to report a record day with cold drinks proving very popular as well as their coffee, baguettes and toasted sandwiches.

Heather from Bean Sejuiced said from opening time at 8.30am on Friday to close of business at 10pm Saturday night it had been “crazy”.

The sweet tooths were around, with Carmel from Kathy’s Old Fashioned Sweet Shop recording excellent patronage.