Who doesn’t enjoy a fine dining experience? I’m sure there are some, but here’s my take on the best places to dine out in Launceston. I’ve included a few family friendly places too because when you’ve got kids, that’s an extremely important consideration!
Stillwater
Stillwater is located on the edge of the Tamar River at the entry to the Cataract Gorge. Besides being in such a beautiful location, the dining experience is second to none. It’s a busy restaurant in a renovated 1830s flour mill. The kitchen’s open all-day with a menu focused on Tasmanian produce. So if you’re after a hearty steak, a succulent Tas Atlantic salmon, a light lunch or a deliciously long breakfast in a super relaxed environment, Stillwater’s the place for you.
Navaro’s Restaurant
Navaro’s is cited as being the place to go for a romantic dinner for two. Of course you can book for larger groups, but if you’re particularly after a dining experience to woo the love of your life I’d suggest Navaro’s. It’s an upper class dining experience in an Edwardian terrace, offering gourmet Italian dishes crafted from local produce. When it comes to Tasmania and local it’s hard to get much better.
Pierre’s
If it’s French you’re after, then it’s Pierre’s. They’ve been around since before I was born, and perhaps is the reason I was born! Lavish and warm, it’s a perfect location to hide away on a freezing winter’s night, and in Summer you can’t pass up their famous ice cream selection. What a perfect place to while away the evening with those closest to you!
Black Cow Bistro
Specialising in the best steak in Launceston, Black Cow is the classiest steakhouse in the area. Free-range beef, premium of course, is the star of the show here. Oh, and did I mention dry aged, free range, grass free and artificial hormone free. And, well, it’s Tasmanian! Fresh local produce always accompanies your pristine protein.
Cataract On Paterson
Looking for a great venue for your next function? Also catering to couples and small groups Cataract On Paterson is across the road from the longer established Stillwater. Stone-grilled offerings are what they’re known for, bringing your steak sizzling to the table, it’s up to you to ensure it’s cooked to your perfection. They also do pizza, soup, crispy potato skins, pork belly, Tas scallops to name a few.
Mud Bar and Restaurant
They excel in service at Mud Bar and Restaurant. They want you to come back. Located at the relaxed Launceston Seaport, ‘Mud’ is contemporary and relaxed with views out to the marina. There’s something very relaxing about dining by the water especially for a long ‘working’ lunch. Be assured, the staff at Mud will look after you 7 days a week with the best seasonal produce.
Terrace Restaurant
Located within the Country Club itself, the Terrace Restaurant will not fail to please. Whether you’re a traveller looking for a quick meal, or a local who’s just finished a round of golf, the Terrace is a great destination for an evening meal. They pay great attention to the detail of your dining experience and are proud of the dining experience they offer.
Josef Chromy Restaurant
While not technically in Launceston itself, Josef Chromy Wines Cellar Door Restaurant really needs to be on this list. With vineyard and lake views you can relax in their upscale restaurant and enjoy modern Australian cuisine and a delightful selection of local wines. Catering for groups of all sizes they do especially well for weddings as it is such an idyllic location. It feels like the country, but couldn’t be more than 20 minutes from Launceston city. Do yourself a favour, try it out!
Levee Food Co
This list wouldn’t be complete without a choice of somewhere to take the whole family if your little ones are, well, still pretty little. At the Levee Food Co you can let your hair down a bit and just chill out. Also located at the Seaport which gives it that fully relaxed environment, Levee Food Co is only minutes from the city and offers modern food and snappy service.