When it comes to food Tasmania offers a world class selection of locally sourced gastronomic delights.
From sensational salmon, wild abalone and Pacific oysters to their amazing wagyu beef, leatherwood honey and delectable truffles, a meal in Tasmania is a treat for all your tastebuds.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Launceston, which hosts a number of outstanding restaurants, cafes and eateries that showcase all of this local produce and more.
For such a small city the culinary scene is quite incredible here. So, if you ever find yourself looking for dining options in this charming riverside destination, check out these 10 great eateries in Launceston all foodies should dine at!
Burger Junkie
Burgers are everywhere in Launceston, but no one quite does them like Burger Junkie.
Based on St John Street, this relaxed venue specialises in world class burgers that are not just ‘next level’, from others you can get elsewhere, but two or three levels higher!
The word ‘amazing’ just doesn’t seem to cut it when it comes to describing them. All of their beef burgers are made from top quality Landfall Black Angus Beef, whilst their menu also includes a range of chicken, vegetarian and vegan burgers too.
Set within a laid-back space that features stylish wood and brick interiors, there is also plenty of choice here for non-burger lovers as well, including the likes of hot dogs, wings, onion rings, potato cakes, poutine and of course French fries.
Serving up the ultimate in comfort food, they also dish out a fabulous range of sauces too.
Address: 105 St John St, Launceston TAS 7250
Geronimo Aperitivo Bar & Restaurant
Don’t be surprised if there is a large group of people queuing to get into the Geronimo Aperitivo Bar and Restaurant, because the venue is an institution in the city.
Located on the fringes of Launceston, this upscale restaurant offers a fresh take on European tradition. Offering family-style dishes and small plates that are designed for sharing, the menu showcases seasonal Tasmanian produce, with the pan-fried octopus and lentils being a signature dish.
Presented in relaxed, rustic-chic surroundings their food is also matched with a carefully curated beverage list that includes labels from Tasmania and around the world. As well as an inventive menu of cocktails too.
Address: 186 Charles St, Launceston TAS 7250
Rupert & Hound
Over in the Seaport Boulevard, the Rupert & Hound is a stunning venue that lies within one of the state’s most spectacular waterfront locations.
Nestled on the banks of the North Esk River, the restaurant only opened a year ago, but it has already forged itself a solid reputation for providing quality food for everyone.
Their menu is heavy on the seafood, (locally sourced of course), and features plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans and those who are gluten and dairy free. This includes gluten-free beer battered fish and chips, which can be eaten by those who suffer from celiac related issues.
Showcasing stunning views, the restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating, which features funky and stylish décor. Cooked with loved, the food here is a notable tip of the hat to modern Australian cuisine. It is also seasonable and sustainable.
Address: 30 Seaport Blvd, Launceston TAS 7250
Black Cow Bistro
Situated right in the heart of the CBD, the Black Cow Bistro offers beef like you have never had it before.
Inspired by the incredible artworks of the Lascaux Caves in France, which dates back more than 17,000 years, it proudly showcases premium Tasmanian beef that is free range, grass fed, hormone free and dry aged.
Priding themselves on delivery a steak that is perfectly cooked every time, as well tender and full of flavour, their range includes everything from eye fillet, sirloin and scotch to rib eye, porterhouse and rump.
It’s not all steak here, they also have a good selection of plant-based meal options too. In addition, they also have an extensive wine list, while the venue itself radiates a warm casual bistro ambience.
Address: 70 George St, Launceston, Tasmania 7250
Josef Chromy Wines
Josef Chromy Wines is one of Tasmania’s most iconic wineries, so a visit here is highly recommended for oenophiles.
Located in the suburb of Relbia, the venue features a chic, upscale restaurant, and cellar door, which conveys spiffing views of a lake and the vineyard.
Serving up the best of contemporary Australian cuisine with its range of signature wines, their a la carte lunch is available 7 days a week.
An inaugural member of Australia’s Ultimate Winery Experiences, you can also book a ‘Behind The Label’ tour if you would like to explore the surrounding vineyard and facilities.
Address: 370 Relbia Rd, Relbia TAS 7258
Dynasty Chinese Restaurant
You’ll find the Dynasty Chinese Restaurant close to Launceston’s Brickfield Park.
Contained within a striking building that features a fabulous façade with octagonal ‘ba-gua’ windows, the eatery is a buzzy space that showcases bright ceiling murals and gold décor.
Perfectly bringing together the best of local Tasmanian produce, with a fabulous menu of Chinese and Cantonese dishes that have stood the test of time, the menu here is extensive.
It even features non-traditional Chinese meals for kids and those who are fussy eaters. While there is also a banquet option for those who want to try a number of different dishes as well.
Address: 95-97 Canning St, Launceston TAS 7250
Stillwater
For over 20 years Stillwater has been a stalwart of the Launceston dining scene.
Serving up breakfast and lunch every day of the week from Tuesday through Saturday, this award-winning venue is also a boutique hotel too.
Based within the structure of an old flour mill, this waterfront-based eatery offers an upscale menu that highlights the best in seasonal produce from their network of local suppliers.
Whilst the portion sizes might be on the small side for some, the food here is beautifully plated and served with panache.
The menu features a good selection of snack sizes, as well as small and large plates. It also has an exceptional five course tasting menu too.
Address: 2 Bridge Road, Launceston, TAS 7250
The Prickly Cactus
Anywhere that has been dubbed ‘The Best Mexican this side of the earth’ is well worth checking out.
Offering a fun and relaxed vibe, with excellent food and terrific value for money, The Prickly Cactus is the place to go for a lovely meal out.
With a menu of delicious burritos, chimichangas, fajitas and house made tortillas, this Tex Mex joint is very popular with locals.
A colourful venue that features wooden floors, its portion sizes are big and designed to share.
The restaurant is also famous for its ‘fishbowl’ margaritas. A head sized cocktail of tequila and other delights that are not for those who can’t take their drink.
If Margarita’s are not your thing, they also have a good selection of beers, wines and also spirits available, as well as other non-alcoholic beverages too.
Address: 72 George Street, Launceston, TAS 7250
Saint John Craft Beer Bar
If gastropub food is more your vibe, then head on over to the Saint John Craft Beer Bar on Saint John Street.
Always busy, especially on a Friday or Saturday night, this is a great place to come for a hearty feed and a good few drinks. The atmosphere is always friendly and relaxed here and they play some killer tunes too.
Boasting a new kitchen and vintage chefs, their lunch and dinner menu features a wide range of dishes that will appeal to all tastes.
Their signature burgers are sensational, whilst they also have an excellent selection of fried chicken, beef, pork and vegan dishes.
The bar also has 17 beers on tap – many of which have been brewed in Tasmania and Australia. They also offer over 100 brands of canned and bottled beer that have been sourced from all over the world, as well as craft ciders, exceptional wines and top-shelf spirits too.
Address: 133 St John St, Launceston TAS 7250
Freycinet Marine Farm
Opened by Julia and Giles Fisher back in 2005, Freycinet Marine Farm is a seafood lover’s dream.
For full disclosure it’s not actually in Launceston, rather it is located a two-hour drive away from it in Coles Bay. However, the quality of the seafood here is so good, it just had to be included.
Taking the form of an oyster and mussel farm which also has an adjoining farm gate café, these guys harvest their produce everyday out of the virile waters of the spectacular Tasmanian Freycinet peninsular.
Championing them on a delicious menu that also features the likes of rock lobster, prawn, salmon, abalone and scallops – all sourced from local fishermen – the food here is sensational. You can choose to order at the café, which is open until 3.30pm, or as a takeaway option.
The couple also offer tours daily that are both water and land based around the farm.
Address: 1784 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215