Our Top Choices of 13 Delicious Restaurants Around Hobart CBD
Are you looking for some delicious food whilst in Hobart? As a food scientist I always gravitate us towards food events or venues. That said whilst I love fine dining and beautiful decor, my true passion is for wonderful food. Whether it’s an a la carte restaurant, a back street café or family restaurant. If the food is exceptional, we will be there having a meal.
It was exceptionally difficult to choose just 13 from all the restaurants in and Hobart. Additionally, like anyone, once you find an exceptional eatery, you return again and again. I have found this to be the case with some of our choices here. Service is also a huge factor for us and with every restaurant we have personally been to on our list, it’s been excellent.
We’d love for you to try one of our choices of what we consider the 13 most delicious restaurants around Hobart. Decide for yourself and let us know your thoughts. As we also consider food, what and how we eat, is truly a personal experience.
Preview – 13 Delicious Restaurants Around Hobart CBD
Our preview briefly highlights what you will discover in our 13 delicious restaurants around Hobart CBD. Whilst we have not eaten at all 13 we have enjoyed meals at many listed here. Those we have not experienced have been recommended through close friends to us. We have included restaurants here that have not only provided delicious meals, but also exceptional service.
- Tesoro – Italian cuisine, with a modern sophisticated twist based in Movenpick Hotel in Hobart’s CBD.
- Peppina – modern Italian cuisine inspired from family, friends & food, based in The Tasman in Hobart’s CBD.
- Cultura Espresso Bar and Restaurant – classic Italian, rich flavoursome rustic dishes based in Hobart CBD.
- Maldini – Family owned and operated Italian restaurant celebrating their traditional menu on Salamanca place.
- Frank – Flavours of Argentina mixed with local produce, right at the waterfront of Sullivans Cove.
- Ba Wa Izakaya – Japanese cuisine based as a reflection of its name, in the Northern area of Hobart.
- The Astor Grill – Seasonal modern a la carte menu with signature grill dishes. Set in an elegant ambiance behind an Art Deco facade.
- Syra – Modern Middle Eastern with a menu designed for sharing this restaurant is in the heart of Salamanca.
- Mezethes Greek Taverna – Traditional Greek cuisine offering a Meze (a taste or bit) menu.
- La Sardina Loca – Mediteranean style menus offering small plates with big flavour.
- Pancho Villa – Mexican restaurant and Tequila Bar offering small or large plates and exceptional feasts.
- Landscape Restaurant and Grill – Set in a colonial building with featuring a premium Asado grill menu.
- The Black Footed Pig – Spanish inspired flavours with local produce, with a share menu and water views.
- Additional Alternatives – A small list of alternative venues here because of their convenience or are also on our list of must try…
Delicious Restaurants around Hobart we personally recommend.
The restaurants listed below are those we have personally been to many more than once and recommend them wholeheartedly. As among the 13 most delicious restaurants around Hobart CBD.
Tesoro
Tesoro which literally means ‘treasure’ is housed in the Mövenpick Hotel. Walking into this restaurant is like being welcomed into the home. Not only is the food amazing the staff and service are exceptional. It is one restaurant in Hobart that we thoroughly recommend.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (38) – $$-$$$
- Google – 4.4/5.0 (91)
We regularly eat here when we visit Hobart as it is one of the Accor group hotels. I can honestly say in my experience we have not had a bad meal here.
Whether it is pancakes with lavender syrup, breakfast pizza or fried chicken for breakfast, pasta for lunch or the 50 day aged rib eye for dinner. Each meal is delicious cooked, to perfection and with a smile. Just a few of the reasons this restaurant makes it to our most delicious restaurants around Hobart.
When dining here we usually start with their signature Limonissimo, a wonderful refreshing cocktail. The calamari fritti and chef’s salumi are a must to start, the best mortadella I have tasted since our visit to Bologna.
Our favourite main is the Rib eye on the bone that we usually share as it’s 550gm (20oz). The sides we have with this are Polenta Chips (yum yum yum) and a green vegetable (brocollini or beans). I have never been able to make Dolci (dessert) but next time I will be as I have had my eye on the Crema Catalina.
Peppina
Housed in an 1840’s heritage building offering a Italian trattoria style dining with a modern twist. This is truly a place to come together with family and friends to enjoy wonderful food. In a typical Italian way of celebrating ‘the food’ that any nonna would be proud of.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (12) – $$$$
- Google – 4.9/5.0 (32)
From the moment we arrived we felt welcome, like visiting family. The staff were attentive throughout the evening, even though the restaurant was quite full. No request was to big or glass was left empty, they truly were delightful.
Whilst the menu is exceptional we all made the decision to have the Tutti a Tavola (everybody at the table). One of my fondest memories of eating with the family was hearing ‘tutti a tavola mangiare!’. At Peppina they celebrate the food, seasons and local producers, so the menu may change, but the quality does not..
Our tutti a tavola consisted of the most divine fried pizza, words do not describe the deliciousness. followed by lightly pickled sardines and oysters with elderflower mignonette. Gnocchi that any mamma or nonna would be proud of, followed by oven roasted pork belly and potato cream and steamed local vegetables. To finish we were served the most delicious boozy tiramisu I have ever had…not for the designated driver, the feint at heart or small children.
Is it any wonder this made it to out most delicious restaurants around Hobart it was a spectacular meal all round. Peppina is also attached to ‘The Tasman’ one of the newest luxury hotels in Hobart and on our list the best luxury hotels to stay in Hobart. Where you can enjoy the Peppina Pantry for breakfast.
Cultura
Located in the middle of the CBD, this classic Italian restaurant excels at traditional Italian hospitality. The warmth of the staff and aromas coming from the kitchen that greet you is a guarantee, this is a place of warm hospitality.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (378) – $$-$$$
- Google – 4.8/5.0 (495)
The atmosphere and ambience is relaxed, but don’t be fooled they take their food with great seriousness. Order and enjoy an antipasto platter or pizza whilst selecting from the menu. Make sure you go with friends to share all their wonderful dishes.
Our meal and experience were exceptional throughout the meal from the start. With our margherita pizza, then the beef and lamb ragu, which melted in your mouth. I can’t forget, the Sicilian duck that had bit of a bite to it and the veal scaloppine was divine. Even on one visit we consider this one of the most delicious restaurants around Hobart.
It certainly won’t be the last time we eat here.
Maldini.
Situated on Salamanca place housed in an old colonial warehouse on the corner of Salamanca square. This is the perfect place to eat alfresco under the umbrellas and watch the crowd go by. Especially on Saturday when the Salamanca Markets are on.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (1059) – $$-$$$
- Google – 4.4/5.0 (769)
This family run business offers wonderful Italian food that focuses on some of the classics with a local twist to them. Which is reflected by their menu. Bringing the flavours and traditions from the Abruzzo region on the Adriatic coast from where they hale.
To say I love Italian food is an understatement, which is probably why there are so many on our most delicious restaurants around Hobart list (oops). To do justice to the family business that comes from the sea all our food was seafood.
We started with Polipo alla griglia (chargrilled octopus tentacle) and some Pane (sourdough), then moved on to Secondi. I have to say I looked at the menu before going (something I usually do ha ha). So I knew exactly what we were having Spaghetti alla marinara and Frutti di mare (a mix of seafood in white wine garlic and butter broth.
This was topped off with an Affogatto (ice cream, coffee, frangelico and biscotti), to which I was wide awake at midnight… I should really know better but the food was superb, sadly I have tried a few times when we have been down but have not been able to repeat this delightful meal.
Frank
Located down opposite Constitution dock, this delightful restaurant is colourful both in décor and staff. I absolutely love the décor of this restaurant it’s a little like being lost down a rabbit hole. Which is only topped by the food, with its big Argentina flavours.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (938) – $$-$$$
- Google – 4.5/5.0 (885)
With a menu offering snacks, small or large plates and a ‘feed me’ option that you can create when you arrive. It’s a great place to stop whilst walking around the waterfront area.
This is a regular dining place for us especially for a small meal in the day. However the food is so great it usually turns into a large meal as we want to eat everything…Ha Ha. The food is so divine I couldn’t not add it to the most delicious restaurants around Hobart.
Our go to food at Frank restaurant is rosemary olive, croquettes and ciabatta as snacks. Beef carpaccio and globe artichoke as small plates… The large plates we always look for are the pork belly…YUM… and scotch fillet. We have never quite made it to dessert the meals have been so delicious and filling.
Bar Wa Izakaya
This Japanese restaurant and bar have exquisite food. Featuring both local and traditional ingredients. To be totally honest we originally found this place because of the variety of Japanese whisky that was on the shelf. But the food is second to none. Located in North Hobart it is well worth twenty minute walk (or 5 min drive).
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (402) – $$-$$$
- Google – 4.7/5.0 (1289)
The specialty, like the name ‘Izakaya‘ is small plates to accompany alcoholic drinks, either pick one ofr two or order a feast.
In our experience when coming here to dine, it is extremely busy, so I’d recommend booking in advance , you won’t be disappointed. Which makes me think we aren’t the only ones around that think this is one of the most delicious restaurants around Hobart.
Our most favourite foods are the Teriyaki Wagyu, tempura mushrooms, house made gyozo, the yakitori and skewers. I can never go past the Okonomiyaki, which is a Japanese style savoury pancake which is amazing.
Now I mentioned we originally went here for the whisky, and we also indulge in a whisky tasting flight of which they have a few to choose from.
Astor Grill
Don’t let the Art Deco facade and décor of this delightful restaurant fool you. Elegance radiates in all corners of the restaurant from the moment you step through the door. Casual elegant dining is the prominent theme. With exceptional service and wonderful staff. You are made to feel welcomed as if you are the only people dining, even when the restaurant is full.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (414) – $$$$
- Google – 4.6/5.0 (209)
However their a la carte menu is divine, changing regularly to suit the seasons. With high priority to showcasing a selection of fresh local produce, from Tasmania and the rest of Australia. From delicate seafood to their signature steak dishes the end result is always excellent.
Our food choice and Style
Do you see a slight pattern here (ha ha) the majority of the restaurants we have choosen to date are mostly Italian, modern Italian or Mediterranean. Whether this is due to my heritage or it is just amazing food. I believe it could be a little of column A and a little of colum B. However, we do love to try new food and will be expanding on these. That is why we have asked our friends for a list of restaurants they consider the most delicious restaurants around Hobart. See below and tell us what you think…
Delicious Restaurants Around Hobart Recommended to Us
Whilst we have not personally visited these next restaurants. They have come highly recommended to us by close friends that have only good things to say. Reviews for these restaurants have shown they are highly revered. Thus suited to be included in our choices of 13 delicious restaurants around Hobart CBD.
We have also included the ratings from two of the most reputed industry sites for your comparison.
Syra
In the heart of Salamanca Square, you will be forgiven in missing this small restaurant tucked away amongst the shops and cafes. However, there is no accounting in the size we have often passed this small restaurant to find it always full. Specialising in eastern Mediterranean food, with a modern connotations. The house specialty is a share ‘feed me’ menu for the whole table to share.
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (520)
- Zomato – 3.8/5.0 (29)
- Yelp – 5.0/5.0 (1)
- Google – 4.7/5.0 (254)
This restaurant receives high ratings overall. The reviews are not only based on the food served, but for the atmosphere, staff and service provided.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- great ambience
- fantastic staff
- delicious food, full of flavour
- excellent service
- share menu too good to share
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, small portions, average food, slightly oily, a lack of service & friendliness from staff.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
Mezethes Greek Taverna
Commanding a beautiful corner of Salamanca square, with indoor and alfresco dining options. This family run restaurant offers traditional Greek cuisine. As the name suggests; Mezethes is the plural of Meze which means ‘a taste or a bite’. So you can expect to receive many tastes of small dishes. Which is reflected in the menu for many dishes.
- Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (996)
- Zomato – 4.2/5.0 (181)
- Yelp – 3.5/5.0 (12)
- Google – 4.2/5.0 (392)
These consisten high overall ratings, are seen for the total experience at the restaurant for many of the reviewers.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- exceptional service
- amazing delicious food
- traditional Greek flavours and meals
- wonderful atmosphere
- excellent staff, welcoming & friendly
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was a lack of service, waited over an hour for food, disappointing food, small portions & friendliness from staff.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
La Sardina Loca
An Aperitivo and Small plates bar, which is located in North Hobart. Housed down a carriageway of a the old Hobart Hotel built in 1830. Serving Mediterranean inspired small plates from seasonal local produce, complemented by a rare Tasmania wine selection.
- Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (12)
- Zomato – not rated
- Yelp – not rated
- Google – 4.7/5.0 (87)
The ratings given were consistent many comments reflected on the overall experience at the restaurant with a positive note.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- ideal location
- beautiful building and courtyard
- refreshing service
- amazing food, absolutely delicious
- excellent customer service and attention to detail
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree with the precious comments. Stating the menu was small, ordinary food and lack friendliness from staff.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
Pancho Villa
This modern Mexican restaurant and Tequila bar are revered as one of the best, if not the best Mexican restaurant in Hobart. Offering and exceptional menu of feasts, and small or large plates. Complemented by the VooDoo Bar with a hidden entrance (open Thurs-Sat).
- Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (316)
- Zomato – 4.0/5.0 (54)
- Yelp – 4.5/5.0 (3)
- Google – 4.6 /5.0 (699)
The overall score, speaks volumes with many commenting on an exceptional experience throughout their evening.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- great Mexican atmosphere
- decor amazing from when you enter
- amazing drinks
- delicious food
- attentive, friendly staff
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was a terrible service, minimal portions, very dark & bland food.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
Landscape Restaurant and Grill
Signature restaurant of the Henry Jones Art Gallery Hotel, Hobart. The décor showcases past Glover Prize winning, landscapes, against a blend of modern and colonial architecture. Featuring a re-imagined menu showcasing the signature Asado Grill dishes sourced from the best seasonal produce.
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (460)
- Zomato – not rated
- Yelp – 4.0/5.0 (8)
- Google – 4.6/5.0 (359)
Overall this restaurant rates high with many comments reflecting it to be a premium fine dining experience. With exceptional food, service and attention to detail.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- delicious food
- impeccable service
- elegant atmosphere
- welcoming, professional and friendly staff
- premium dining experience
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was a bad food, no atmosphere, lack of service & unprofessional staff.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
The Black Footed Pig
A menu influenced by Catalonia, Andalusia flavours. Combining the beautiful flavours of Spain with Tasmanian and Australian produce. Predominately share plates, which is perfect to defeat the food envy of your partners meal. The 7 course Chef’s selection is recommended. The waterfront view is a perfect day or night.
- Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (578)
- Zomato – 3.7/5.0 (32)
- Yelp – 3.5/5.0 (6)
- Google – 4.5/5.0 (215)
The overall score is a reflection of service, location, view and food. With many comments about the amazing ‘feed me’ selection.
The most common responses amongst reviewers:
- remarkable food experience
- beautiful building & decor
- impeccable service
- friendly, welcoming staff welcoming
- stunning atmosphere and location
As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was a long wait, lack of service food was forgettable, lack of friendliness from staff.
Ratings: 21/03/2022
Additional Alternatives
There are so many wonderful restaurants in Hobart. It was difficult to narrow it down to just 13 delicious restaurants around Hobart.
Best Restaurants Hobart Waterfront
The waterfront restaurant scene has grown so much over the years that I thought it deserved a special mention. To clarify the ‘waterfront area’ I refer to, between and amongst the piers down to Hunter St. It is here you find additions to above of the best restaurants in Hobart.
Here I will highlight some not mentioned above with their Google (G) and Tripadvisor (T) ratings, and cost indication. All ratings as at 21/03/2022
- Peacock and Jones: G – 4.6/5.0 (346): T – 4.5/5.0 (499) – $$-$$$
- Old Wharf Restaurant: G – 4.2/5.0 (159): T4.0/5.0 (276) – $$-$$$
- The Lounge by Frogmore Creek: G – 4.4/5.0 (411): T 4.5/5.0 (305) $$$$
- Drunken Admiral: G – 4.3/5.0 (1,746): T 4.0/5.0 (2,853) $$-$$$
- Mures Upper Deck: G – 4.o/5.0 (567): T 4.0/5.0 (2,085) $$$$
- Pearl & Co: G – 4.3/5.0 (214): T 4.5/5.0 (379) $$-$$$
As well as some of the most delicious restaurants around Hobart, you will find a selection of fish & chips and burger shops in and around constitution dock. In addition to what Greg believes is the best ice cream ‘ever’. – Van Diemens Land Creamery: G – 4.7/5.0 (496): T 4.5/5.0 (82)
Other articles that will help you plan your trip around Tasmania.
Come explore Tasmania – all you need to know.
Coming to Tasmania, should you fly or float?
13 Best Luxury Hotels to Stay in Hobart
13 Must Do One Day Itineraries around Hobart
13 Best One Day Itineraries around Launceston
Hobart clearly has some great places to eat. I’m most drawn to try Syra and the Black Footed Pig, they sound great.
They are both exceptional restaurants, I was only saying we need to go back…
Thanks for posting. It’s nice to learn about new places to eat and I will keep in mind when I travel in the areas listed.
You are so welcome…I love to try out new places
So many great restaurants in Hobart! I love repurposed buildings like Maldini
Many are on the Waterfront, but Maldini is divine, and beautiful food.
These restaurants sound great. I would love to eat at Cultura. A great Italian place sounds wonderful!
a good choice it’s lovely
Australia has always been high on my bucket list. Thank you for adding Hobart to that.
You are welcome and Hobart is delightful
Great list! This is super helpful. We always struggle with restaurant selection.
So do I which is why I have a list ha ha… it is getting added to as more pop up around town…
I’ve never heard of Hobart but now I’m curious as the food scene sounds amazing!
Thank you, the food scene is beautiful too many to choose from
I’ll have to remember this post if I am ever back in Australia.
Thank you, hope your travels bring you back here …
Your recommendations are fantastic! I love to explore places that food is to be found. :))
ha ha when we travel it’s the first thing I look at… what restaurants are about and do I have to book…
Fantastic article! I’ve never visited here, now I have an excuse to!
Thank you… ha ha yes food is always my excuse to go somewhere new also…
Love how comprehensive this post is—very helpful. Bookmarking it for a future trip.
Thank you, I tried to cover as many as I could in a comprehensive way…glad I succeeded for you
It sounds like you can culinarily visit lots of places around the world just by hopping around Hobart. I’d love to check out the Landscape Restaurant and Grill when I’m visiting. I love art deco designs and seasonal local food would be simply lovely!
Yes it is but all of Australia is an absolute taste of the world… the Landscape is in a beautiful Hotel that is like an art gallery and the mix of art deco and colonial works so well…
Yummy food options. Personally, I love Italian too!
It’s our favourite also but trying to expand from the family roots LOL
Australia is somewhere I’d love to visit and now Hobart is also on the list!
So many great restaurants our list is just the tip of the iceberg
One day I hope to visit Hobart and try some on your list.
Oh you will love them and the vegetarian/vegan options down there are crazy…but couldn’t get Greg to go
Frank and Pancho Villa sound right up my alley! I’m definitely a foodie at heart and If I’m ever in the area, I will definitely check these out. Thank you for these wonderful restaurant suggestions! 🙂
Oh Frank is amazing we love it there…Pancho Villa is next month I will update with personal review…
I really love this idea of posting several restaurants in Hobart together to make them easy to compare and contrast – thinking I need to do this for our local towns too. Like you, we tend to go back to favorites again and again!
Thank you.. I do like to have options some of the ones we haven’t been to is because they are always booked out…I recommend you do this
It is nice to see the variety of international cuisines available in one place. When I travel, I love to experiment the local food, especially the traditional dishes. And, more importantly, the gelato!:)) I would love to visit Tasmania one day! If I ever make it to Australia, I’ll be sure to add it to the itinerary!
We are a very multicultural country so you will find many different cuisines here, some traditional some a modern expression of the traditional… Oh gelato yes there are some fine gelato shops and vans that are dotted around our state and Australia… I hope that you get that wish to visit…
We really hope so! When we moved to the UK 15 years ago, my partner was so disappointed with the weather; he said we were moving to Australia. I froze because I can’t be too far from Europe, but now I think he was right and I was so wrong!
I do also, I would be the same ha ha but may have chosen Spain for weather…to be honest I like the cooler climates ha ha but not the icy rain… It is a long flight I think our next one will be a stop over in Abu Dhabi…