A little taste of ... Tassie
by Sophie Davies
A
weekend away to Hobart and surrounds earlier this year provided me with a
sensational glimpse of Tasmania’s finest and a strong desire to return.
Armed with a hire car and empty stomach – there were plenty of delicious
options to explore and a limited amount of time.
Highlights included a ferry ride to Bruny Island (about an hour from Hobart)
and an unforgettable afternoon at Meadowbank Estate restaurant.
Bruny Island is a fairly undiscovered gem where I uncovered Get Shucked – a tiny two-man operation serving incredible, literally fresh-from-the-ocean-oysters. These were shucked upon order and served with a fresh slice of lemon.
Located a comfortable 30 minute drive from Hobart central, Meadowbank Estate is a stylish cellar door and restaurant complex, complete with stunning views across the estate vineyards.
It was an ideal destination to unwind and enjoy the fine fare of Tasmania, and we found the only difficulty was choosing what not to order on the menu – every single dish sounded appetising – a situation I have rarely experienced.
So we ordered all four entrées as a sensible compromise for our salivating mouths.
The spread included scrumptious figs, wrapped in prosciutto, fresh seared Spring Bay scallops, a rabbit, hare and pistachio terrine and a moreish goat’s cheese soufflé served with a surprisingly delicious and complementary salad of apple, walnut and celery. Try the sparkling wine Mardi too.
Other gastronomic hotspots include Restaurant Gondwana at Battery Point, Moorilla Estate winery (which includes magnificent new accommodation facilities, each suite complete with wine cellars), Lipscombe Larder on Sandy Bay Road (for the best sausage rolls in Australia and fabulous coffee) and The Ball and Chain Grill in Salamanca Place for a good steak and an even more amazing aged wine list.
Bon Appétit!