March 27, 2023

Foodie Trails

Launceston and the North West of Tasmania are known and loved for their extensive food and wine delicacies. Whether it's the vineyards scattering the banks of the iconic Tamar River or the eateries that span the drive to the North West coast, there are options to suit every appetite.

A designated UNESCO City of Gastronomy (one of only 49 worldwide!) Launceston is a foodie destination gaining momentum. Whether you want to dedicate a weekend or your whole trip, it’s well worth taking some time to explore the unique food and wine trails in and around this great city.

If you’re sans a car or simply want to skip the drive, don’t worry - there’s no shortage of delicious food precincts in the Launceston CBD for you to enjoy as well!

Tasting Trail
Formerly known as the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail, this tour takes participants from Launceston to Smithton, tasting all things Tasmanian along the way. Whether you like fancy distilleries, fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood or sweet treats, this trail has something for everyone. With almost 50 stops, showcasing the many beautiful regions that Tasmania has to offer, this trail encompasses the very best of Northern Tasmania’s products and producers.

Visiting soon? The TrailGraze event is back for another year from 22 to 23 April. Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at producers from across Tasmania, with tastings, live music and workshops - this event is one not to be missed!

And when it comes to travel, why not save the hassle and book with one of our North West tour and transport options, Unearthed Tours and Coastline Tours Tasmania.

Tamar Valley Wine Route
If you’re looking to experience one of the world’s premium cool-climate wine regions, Tasmania’s Tamar Valley is the perfect place. Being Tasmania’s oldest wine-growing area with almost 30 vineyards to choose from, the Tamar Valley has it all.

The signature wine variety of the region is Pinot Noir, but if red isn’t your style, there is a large variety of other wines available, as well as cider (taste it right on the Apple Isle!) and a range of traditional and craft beers.

If you’re planning a day trip, there are a range of award-winning restaurants in the Tamar Valley area, as well as many vineyards offering platters of local produce to enjoy with your chosen drop.

Wanting to map out your next trip? The Gourmakers app is here to help, with a map of the Tamar Valley wine trail on offer, as well as a list of other interesting places to visit. If you’ve got time to spare we also recommend adding the East and South Tamar wine routes to your bucket list - there’s no such thing as too much food and wine in our opinion!

Food Precincts in Launceston
Launceston is brimming with eateries, restaurants and cafés around every street corner. If you’re looking for a historic hub with a bit of everything, why not try one of the many food and drink precincts based in the city?

Tatler Arcade
Tatler Arcade is our newest eatery precinct with a big-city atmosphere. Consisting of Tatler Lane - a cafe, bar and restaurant all in one, it has something for everyone, at all times of the day.

Beyond Tatler Lane, the Arcade also has Sun and Moon Eatery and Goldfish Kitchen Express. Around this area, there are also many foodie delights, such as local favourites Tenebris and Burger Junkie and the sweet franchise that is San Churro.


Charles Street
Running straight through the middle of Launceston city, Charles Street has all things food and drink. Start your day off at the top of Charles Street with your eggs cooked just how you like them at Cafe Mondello, Elaia or Aromas. If you’d prefer a sleep in or an early glass of wine (you are on holiday after all), we suggest heading down to the ever popular wine bar Havilah. If you’re after something more substantial with your drink we recommend pairing your drink with dinner at Geronimo or Monsoon.


Seaport
After taking in the scenic views of the Cataract Gorge and the Tamar River, why not duck into one of the many restaurants that line the Seaport boardwalk? With options varying from Spice Lounge, Levee Food Co., Mudbar Restaurant, Rupert & Hound and Reel Fish and Chips, you won’t know where to start. Hoping for an early start? Cube Coffee and Boathouse Coffee provide great coffee and delicious food on the go.


Need transport?
If you want to explore the best of these trails we recommend hiring a car - we recommend having a designated driver, so everyone can enjoy more wine!

We have a variety of rental car companies on offer at Launceston Airport, including AVIS, Budget, Europcar, Sixt, Hertz, Redspot and Enterprise, all are ready to help you hit the road.

Happy exploring! The trails await.


Australia Pacific Airports (Launceston) acknowledges the First Nations people and Traditional Owners of Tasmania including the Land that Launceston Airport operates on. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all other First Nations People.