The most delicious food and beverages I enjoyed in Tasmania

The most delicious food and beverages I enjoyed in Tasmania, Launceston and Hobart were the foremost attractions for connoisseurs of delectable cuisine, exquisite wine and refined spirits.

During my recent excursion, I indulged in the delectable offerings of Tasmania’s local produce and enjoyed a sip (or two) of fresh-from-the-barrel whiskey.

From wine tastings to elaborate chef-made lunches, visiting kitchen gardens to experiencing finely-crafted cocktails; it was quite an experience that left me feeling satisfied beyond measure! It goes without saying – Tasmania has earned its repute not only for its breathtaking natural landscapes but also as home to exceptional food culture & culinary bounty.

1. Timbre Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant in the Tamar Valley. They promote shared dining, which gives you the opportunity to sample their fantastic grilled cheese with mustard pickle or blue eye trevalla crudo with purple daikon.

Additionally, don’t forget to try their wood-fired chicken paired perfectly with almond and salsa verde. If you have room for dessert after your meal, we highly recommend indulging in Timbre’s fluffy miso caramel mousse topped off by shards of honeycomb and brown butter crumble; it boasts an exceptional umami flavor that prevents it from being overly sweet thanks to its subtle use of sugar undertones!

2. After countless hours of hiking on the Overland Track, ex-guide Will Horan often imagined himself brewing beer.

His vision has finally become a reality with Du Cane Brewery and Dining Hall in Launceston – something that locals are equally thrilled about! Our personal recommendation is to pair their Ascending Falling Mountain PILS (a traditional German hops afternoon brew) with the delectable Good Game pizza adorned with cured wallaby meat slices, scamorza cheese and basil atop a crispy crust.

Another must-try dish is The Earth; consisting of potato, rosemary, garlic pecorino and mozzarella – it truly deserves its spot as one of our top picks at this establishment.

3. Choosing between a croissant and morning bun from Bread and Butter was an impossible task. However, I did not have to regret my decision of indulging in both delicacies two days in a row. The croissant was traditionally prepared with fine layers that had an exceptional crunchy texture while the morning pastry boasted similar crispiness coated perfectly with sugar.

4. The Cellar Room, situated beneath a flour mill from the 1830s in Stillwater, offers an enchanting dining experience. Enjoy mesmerizing vistas of the Tamar River while indulging in scrumptious fare at this upscale yet laid-back restaurant. For my meal, I relished plump prawn and scallop dumplings seasoned with roasted garlic and black vinegar before savoring pan-fried Pink Ling on squid ink rice topped off with a zesty fennel emulsion. To conclude my feast, I savored burnt caramel dark chocolate tart paired perfectly with hazelnut ice cream infused wattleseed- all enhanced by coffee cremeaux to cap it up deliciously!

5. At Stoney Rise Wine Company, I indulged in a self-paced tasting flight inside an exquisitely crafted space that offered breathtaking views of farmland, Gravelly Beach and the Tamar River. The Holymans strive to create unique wines reflective of their personal taste preferences so don’t miss out on exploring their distinct blends like the Gruner Veltliner or Trousseau.

6. Visiting the Turner Stillhouse for a distillery tour and trying out their Three Cuts Gin tasting flight is highly recommended. The Barrel Rested Gin has delightful hints of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg that pair wonderfully with ginger ale and an orange slice. For those who prefer floral notes in their gin, Founder’s Release combines three types of roses with twelve botanicals for a fragrant blend. Additionally, the Distiller’s release from this distillery has received numerous praises at Australian Gin Awards.

7. During my trip, I discovered that Tasmania boasts more than 80 whiskey distilleries. It’s hardly a shock that my palate for this beverage continued to evolve. While on the journey between Hobart and Launceston, an expert tour at Callington Mill Distillery unveiled Dark Secret – a distinct winter warmer specifically crafted as part of Hobart’s annual event known as Dark Mofo. The rich flavor profile features notes of creamy butterscotch, gooey toffee and indulgent chocolate elements intertwined throughout its complex blend.

8. The Agrarian Kitchen‘s lunch commences with a stroll through their garden. Our meal features nettle on our plates, drinks embellished with floral garnishes and the sugar snap peas are so fresh that they remind us of seeing them outside still attached to the vines.

Once kissed by the woodfire oven, coupled with smoked fish mousse, and dusted in paprika seasoning, these perfect pea pods create an incredible culinary experience.

9. Institute Polaire serves a delectable Sud Polaire gin bramble, using their award-winning Antarctic-inspired gin. It pairs perfectly with a range of entrees including Bottarga toast topped with whipped cod roe resembling a miniature birthday cake and spiced cherry chicken Parfait Eclair that could easily steal attention in any magazine spread.

10. Peppina, a contemporary eatery in Hobart, exudes an electrifying atmosphere that captivates the senses. Their dinner menu boasts of heavenly soft pillows of gnocchi smothered in bubbling sugo and crowned with melted cheese perfection. The kingfish dish features fennel shavings and a tangy citrus dressing, while the scallops are served in their shells with crunchy almonds, zesty chili, and baked breadcrumbs for an enhanced flavor experience.