It is Australia’s most Southern state, with a reputation proceeding itself, offering a contrasting landscape abundant with the ideal growing conditions for many of the mainland’s produce and wine demands. However, it is the salty elixir of the Tasman Sea, lapping at the untouched Eastern coastline of Tasmania which has put the area waves above the rest on any seafood gourmand’s radar.
With cool waters travelling North from the Antarctic and pristine water purity, several sea creature varieties flourish, growing clean and pure flesh, delivering an unparalleled taste which has the world seeking what locals can enjoy daily. Join us for a road trip along the East Coast of Tassie as we highlight the must-visit seafood pit stops and destinations it has to offer.
On tour with Seafood Seduction.
Seafood Seduction, Hobart:
We kick off our road trip in Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart, with the most hands-on seafood tour you could experience, Seafood Seduction.
Situated on Franklin Wharf, next to Constitution Dock, Seafood Seduction is a full-day tour hosted by the multi-award-winning company Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. Boarding guests from Franklin Wharf, next to the Constitution Dock lifting Bridge on Hobart’s waterfront, Seafood Seduction offers an exclusive tour for a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Guests are well looked after by two local guides on board their comfortable, custom-built vessel, featuring an enclosed cabin and luxury leather seats. Anchoring in select locations to dive for wild abalone, extremely sought-after Southern rock lobster, sea urchin from the crystal clear waters of Bruny Island and salmon from local farms, delighting guests as the day’s catch is turned into a seafood feast accompanied by gourmet local produce and Tasmanian wines, boutique beers, ciders and juices.
"I think it’s a once in a lifetime experience. I have been there many times, any friends that come to visit in Australia, I have taken them to Seafood Seduction.” – Tetsuya Wakuda.
Flippers Fish and Chips, Constitution Wharf, Hobart:
When visiting Tasmania, it is on most tourists to-do lists to visit Hobart, a tourist mecca rich in culture offering a contrast of old-world charm which meets a modern coastal atmosphere. Sitting on the very edge of Constitution Wharf, bobbing docked in the bay, is Flippers Fish and Chips, the takeaway seafood eatery which has cemented itself as a must visit tourist stop. Why not grab a succulent piece of crumbed trevally to enjoy with a side of fresh coleslaw and chips and sit on the water’s edge while you watch the boats coming and going from the marina?
On a taste tour at Mures' Upper Deck with a Chef's selection white fish.
Mures Upper Deck, Hobart:
Found just a short stroll from Hobart’s Salamanca Place, is the iconic, family-owned and operated seafood eatery, Mures Tasmania.
Styled with timber-clad walls, table tops to match and lush upholstered chairs, the Upper Deck of Mures offers a stylish and refined a la carte dining experience for those who prefer. The Upper Deck serves a menu swimming with seafood sourced straight from the suppliers below incorporated into a Mod Oz menu of favourites.
The Fish Van, Triabunna:
Moving further North, when finding yourself in the suburb of Triabunna, be sure to make a pit stop at the popular local haunt, The Fish Van, parked along the Main Wharf End of Charles Street. Take a seat in its alfresco dining space of relaxed picnic tables or grab your meal to devour on the go.
Offering seafood straight from the marina which it sits adjacent to, The Fish Van serves up tasty seafood treats authentically wrapped in brown paper, with options like the Tackle Box with fish, seafood bites, squid rings, crab stick, salt and pepper squid and chips.
Oyster Bay Restaurant, Swansea:
Take the scenic drive north from Triabunna to Swansea for a pit stop and enjoy a meal at Oyster Bay Restaurant. A must-visit stop off on the takeaway trail offering weary travellers a tasty meal to keep them fuelled on their journey. Don't be mistaken by the name, this is not fancy but it is local and simple. A perfect combo when you're hungry and want good hearty food - juicy oysters, fish and chips, cold drinks, local seafood and friendly service.
On a seafood tasting tour at Freycinet Marine Farm.
Freycinet Marine Farm | Coles Bay
After spending the day exploring the stunning surroundings of Freycinet National Park, satisfy your ravenous appetite with a trip to Freycinet Marine Farm and enjoy fresh seafood harvested straight from the water while enjoying spectacular views from the deck.
If you’re just passing through, perhaps purchase some seafood to take away like fresh mussels, Pacific oysters or wild-caught Tasmanian abalone, pan-fried and served with lemon to bring out the natural flavours, along with seafood catches from its outlet the Fishers, located within the Devils Corner vineyard.
Whether arriving by plane or boat, the state of Tasmania feels worlds away from the mainland, offering an abundance of culinary experiences, inviting visitors to sample in its bounty of produce. Visit here for more of Tasmania’s must-visit restaurants.
