Launceston is a city that has embraced its rich culinary heritage and leveraged its bountiful local produce to create a thriving restaurant scene. However, it is often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, Hobart, despite Launceston having been named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2021. Perhaps because the city is so small, travellers favour a trip to Hobart for food, wine, and attractions. Regardless of the reason, Launceston deserves its time in the spotlight.
Whether you’re a seafood lover, steak enthusiast, or simply looking for a taste of Tasmania’s fresh flavours like truffles, cheese, leatherwood honey, or wild abalone, Launceston has a restaurant to suit your preferences.
Here’s where you can find Launceston’s best restaurants.
Stillwater
Stillwater is an iconic restaurant that epitomises the farm-to-table dining concept in Tasmania. Housed in a historic 1830s flour mill on the banks of the Tamar River, this restaurant offers water views and a diverse menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The seasonal menu ensures you’ll experience the essence of Tasmanian cuisine, with a small global influence, such as wallaby wings pasted with a BBQ gochujang glaze. Pair your meal with a glass of Tasmanian wine from their extensive list for the quintessential dining experience.
Stelo at Pierre’s
Stelo at Pierre’s presents the best of local ingredients through an Italian culinary lens. Led by an acclaimed team, diners can expect to see Tasmanian Wagyu beef, seafood, and organically grown local produce on the menu. The weekly four-course tasting menu highlights seasonally limited, locally inspired dishes paired with a curated wine list.
The restaurant’s warm atmosphere spans two grand dining rooms, a bar, and a private dining area, reflecting a rich history dating back to 1956 when Pierre’s Cafe and Brasserie introduced Australia’s first commercial espresso machine.
Rupert & Hound
Burrowed in Launceston’s Seaport, Rupert & Hound, established in 2021, is a top-tier waterfront dining destination. Seafood is by far the most popular and deliberate focus of the kitchen. However, they cater to all palates, be it vegan, vegetarian, or dairy-free. With that said, if you are sniffing out the best seafood in town, you’ll find grilled Tasmanian octopus, scallops, oysters, market fish and more on the menu.
While the restaurant is modern Australian, diners will notice some global influences like Peking duck pancakes, Korean fried chicken, and pork tacos. RH is a classic and must-try when in Launceston.
Josef Chromy Wines, Relbia
Venture outside city limits to Josef Chromy Wines, known for its premium table wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. While visiting the 61-hectare vineyard and cellar door, be sure to spend some time at the restaurant. It overlooks the rolling hills and vines and even has one chef hat, which they’ve kept every year since 2017.
The menu changes seasonally and makes use of the local bounty in dishes such as seared bluefin tuna, wood-grilled lamb rump, and scotch fillet with a medley of vegetables. Add a wine pairing for the ultimate Josef Chromy experience.
Mudbar Restaurant
Another waterfront restaurant is Mudbar, with an intimate dining room, enticing al fresco seating, and versatile lounge areas — it’s complemented by Launceston’s most versatile bar. Their extensive wine list showcases some of Tasmania’s finest, with a focus on Tasmanian Pinot Noir and a diverse cocktail selection to suit all tastes.
The food menu is your go-to for a memorable modern Asian-style dining experience; whether you’re after an intimate dinner, a casual lunch, a group event, or simply a cocktail with a friend, Mudbar is the casual, bold venue you’re looking for.
Boatyard Launceston
Boatyard, Launceston’s newest dining establishment, overlooks one of Australia’s oldest slip yards. Sitting in a corner with views of the Tamar River and the Cataract Gorge, it’s the perfect place for casual waterfront dining. Whether you’re starting your day with a morning coffee and an omelette or watching a cotton candy sunset from the balcony, Boatyard is a year-round destination in this cherished part of the world.
Black Cow Bistro
For the meat enthusiasts, Black Cow Bistro is a must-visit. As the name suggests, Black Cow Bistro is all about top-quality beef. Their selection of premium Tasmanian beef is dry-aged on-site and expertly prepared to your liking. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a rich selection of wines, ensuring a memorable steakhouse experience.
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