Blessed with rich soil, an abundance of seafood and a tradition of small-scale production, Tasmania has earned its reputation as an international culinary destination. From beer and berries to pork and pinot, there’s much to be enjoyed…just be sure you don’t forget to pack your appetite! With so many food and drink options available throughout the island state, it can be difficult to decide where to start. We’ve hand-picked some highlights that you can use to guide you through Tasmania’s exquisite food and drink scene
Bruny Island
Home to some of Tasmania’s best local produce, you’ll want to spend at least an entire day on Bruny Island. Some favourite taste-testing options include freshly shucked oysters, cheese, berries, wine and spirits.
Hobart
While there are amazing eateries throughout the entire state, Hobart (Tasmania’s capital) is where you’ll find the highest concentration of mouth-watering culinary options. If you love seafood, you’re in for a treat; local seafood is ample, especially in the restaurants along the dock. If you’re in Hobart on a Saturday, don’t miss the Salamanca Markets; where you’ll get to meet the local artisans and taste local, fresh produce. And, for the sweet tooths, Federation Artisan Chocolate offer masterclasses, where you learn all about the chocolate-making process and enjoy some tastings (of course).
Central Highlands
Grass-fed wagyu beef, whisky, flour and stunning scenery…. The options are endless in Tasmania’s Central Highlands. Visit the Belgrove Distillery, one of only a few whisky distilleries in the world that grows all of its grains, malt, ferments, distills and barrels on site. For a different kind of foodie experience, enjoy a demonstration at the Callington Flour Mill; the only working example of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
St Helens
Home to the famous orange granite boulders, emerald blue ocean and white sand beaches of the Bay of Fires, St Helens is also home to many a culinary treat. Participate in a hands-on jam making class at Eureka Farm, using fresh fruits and berries that are grown and harvested on the farm. Head slightly inland to Pyengana Dairy, where you can devour some of Australia’s heritage farmhouse cheese.
Launceston
No foodie trip to Tasmania would be complete without a stop at the famous Bridestowe Lavender Estate; the largest lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere. The onsite cafe, The Woodcroft Cafe, which has a delicious range of lavender inspired dishes, including lavender ice cream, lavender flower honey and culinary lavender. Finally, to end your culinary adventure on a high, be sure to make a pitstop at Jansz Estate; Tassie’s premiere winery for sparkling wines, where you can enjoy tastings of the premiere sips.
Itching to experience an adventure for your soul and your tastebuds?! Check out the ‘Tassie Quick Bite’ tour with Cosmos Tours!
