Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, offers a thriving culinary scene that reflects the island’s rich culture and abundance of fresh local produce. From waterfront dining to hidden gems in the city’s historic streets, Hobart boasts a diverse range of eateries. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual spots, each restaurant delivers its own unique take on Tasmanian cuisine. This guide will take you through the top five restaurants in Hobart, based on stellar review scores, with a focus on local ingredients and memorable dining experiences.
1. Templo
Address: 98 Patrick Street, Hobart, TAS 7000
Overview:
Templo is a small yet popular neighbourhood restaurant that has quickly made a name for itself in Hobart’s culinary scene. With an intimate setting and seating for only 20 to 25 people, Templo is known for its minimalist decor and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences, focusing on sharing plates made from locally sourced ingredients. The rotating menu offers fresh, seasonal dishes that highlight Tasmania’s best produce. The simplicity of the space, combined with thoughtful service, makes for a cozy and personable dining experience.
One of the things that set Templo apart is its regularly changing menu, which ensures that each visit offers something new. From house-made pasta to expertly prepared seafood and meat dishes, every plate is crafted with care and creativity. The emphasis on local wines further enhances the dining experience, with many guests opting for wine pairings that perfectly complement the flavours on their plate. Despite its small size, Templo delivers big on taste, and its focus on sustainability and local produce is a recurring theme throughout the menu.
Why it is on this list:
Templo consistently ranks highly due to its intimate setting, innovative yet simple menu, and commitment to local ingredients. Its high number of positive reviews speaks to its ability to deliver an exceptional dining experience every time, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors alike.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests frequently praise the cozy ambiance, noting that the small size of the restaurant adds to the overall experience. The food is consistently described as fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented, with many diners appreciating the seasonal, rotating menu. Reviewers also commend the staff for their attentive service and in-depth knowledge of the dishes and wine list.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners have mentioned that securing a reservation can be difficult due to the limited seating capacity. A few reviews also pointed out that the portion sizes, while delicious, can be on the smaller side, especially given the price point. However, these minor critiques are far outweighed by the overwhelming positive feedback.
2. Frank Restaurant
Address: 1 Franklin Wharf, Hobart, TAS 7000
Overview:
Situated on Hobart’s iconic waterfront, Frank Restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and bold flavours, offering a unique dining experience that fuses Latin American cuisine with Tasmanian produce. The interior is stylish and eclectic, with large windows offering stunning views of the water. Whether you’re seated indoors or on the outdoor deck, Frank’s lively ambiance is infectious. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging diners to explore a variety of dishes. With flavours inspired by Argentina, Chile, and Peru, Frank presents everything from smoky grilled meats to fresh seafood with a Latin twist.
Frank’s menu is designed to highlight Tasmania’s bounty of fresh ingredients, with a focus on high-quality, ethically sourced produce. Think slow-cooked lamb with chimichurri, grilled octopus with paprika, and fresh salads with bold citrus and herb dressings. The restaurant’s open kitchen adds to the excitement, allowing diners to see their dishes being prepared with care and precision. The drinks menu is equally impressive, featuring a wide selection of South American-inspired cocktails and an extensive wine list with local and international options.
Why it is on this list:
Frank is included for its ability to combine bold Latin American flavours with Tasmania’s fresh produce. Its vibrant atmosphere and waterfront location make it one of the most popular dining destinations in Hobart. Frank’s consistently high reviews reflect the restaurant’s focus on quality, creativity, and overall dining experience.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Diners rave about the bold and exciting flavours at Frank, with many praising the restaurant’s unique take on Latin American cuisine. The waterfront views are often highlighted as a major plus, providing the perfect backdrop for a lively meal. Reviewers also mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who enhance the experience with their attention to detail and passion for the food.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
A few guests have mentioned that the restaurant can get noisy, particularly during busy periods, which may detract from a more intimate dining experience. Some diners also felt that the portion sizes could be more generous given the price, though most agree that the flavours more than make up for it.
3. Aloft
Address:
Level 1, Brooke Street Pier, Hobart, TAS 7000
Overview:
Perched atop the Brooke Street Pier, Aloft offers panoramic views of the Derwent River and an upscale, modern dining experience. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The open kitchen adds a theatrical element, allowing diners to watch as their dishes are artfully prepared. Aloft’s menu is designed to showcase Tasmania’s incredible local produce, with a focus on fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables sourced from local farmers and fishermen.
The dishes at Aloft are elegant yet approachable, with a menu that changes seasonally to reflect the availability of ingredients. Expect to find plates like charred octopus, slow-cooked pork belly, and freshly shucked oysters, all presented with a creative flair. The wine list features a strong selection of Tasmanian wines, ensuring that each meal is paired perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated night out with friends, Aloft offers a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Why it is on this list:
Aloft’s waterfront location, creative menu, and focus on local ingredients make it one of the top dining destinations in Hobart. Its consistently high reviews speak to the quality of the food, service, and overall dining experience, cementing its place as a must-visit restaurant in the city.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests often praise Aloft for its stunning views of the river, with many noting that the ambiance adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal. The food is frequently described as innovative and beautifully presented, with diners appreciating the attention to detail in both the flavours and presentation. The service is also a standout feature, with staff members often praised for their professionalism and knowledge of the menu.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners have mentioned that the restaurant can feel a bit formal or stiff, particularly for those looking for a more casual dining experience. A few reviews also noted that while the food is high quality, the portion sizes can be smaller than expected for the price.
4. Fico
Address: 151 Macquarie Street, Hobart, TAS 7000
Overview:
Fico offers a unique blend of Italian and French-inspired cuisine in the heart of Hobart, with a focus on simplicity, elegance, and flavour. The restaurant’s interior is sleek and minimalist, with a neutral colour palette and subtle lighting that create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The menu at Fico changes frequently, reflecting the seasons and the availability of local ingredients. Dishes are crafted with care, focusing on bold flavours and innovative techniques, with a clear emphasis on quality over quantity.
The menu at Fico is a mix of a la carte options and a regularly changing degustation menu, giving diners the chance to experience a variety of dishes. Expect to find items like house-made pasta, slow-roasted meats, and delicate desserts that showcase the best of Italian and French culinary traditions. The wine list is extensive, with a strong emphasis on Tasmanian wines, as well as a curated selection of Italian and French varietals that perfectly complement the menu.
Why it is on this list:
Fico is included for its elegant yet understated approach to Italian and French cuisine, with a clear focus on local ingredients. Its consistently high reviews highlight the quality of the food and the attention to detail in both the service and the ambiance.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Reviewers frequently praise the refined and elegant presentation of the dishes at Fico, with many noting the balance of flavours and the high quality of the ingredients. The intimate atmosphere is also a highlight, making it a popular choice for special occasions. Diners also appreciate the extensive wine list, which perfectly complements the food.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners have mentioned that the portion sizes can be smaller than expected, particularly on the degustation menu. A few reviews also pointed out that the restaurant can feel a bit formal or lacking in warmth, especially for those seeking a more casual dining experience.
5. Peppina
Address:
2b Salamanca Place, Hobart TAS 7000
Overview:
Peppina brings a fresh take on Italian cuisine to the vibrant Hobart dining scene. Located in The Tasman hotel, Peppina blends traditional Italian cooking techniques with Tasmanian produce. The menu celebrates simplicity and the natural flavours of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With its spacious and warm interior, the restaurant provides a welcoming and relaxed environment perfect for intimate dinners or large gatherings. Its signature dishes, such as fresh handmade pasta, are complemented by local vegetables, seafood, and high-quality meats.
Diners can expect standout dishes like cavatelli with locally sourced ingredients, salads highlighting fresh herbs and vegetables, and polpette in rich tomato sauce. The thoughtfully curated wine list features both Italian and Tasmanian varietals, enhancing the overall experience and ensuring a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty Italian feast or lighter bites, Peppina strikes a balance between traditional and modern Italian cuisine.
Why it is on this list:
Peppina earns its spot due to its reputation for consistently delivering high-quality meals with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Its excellent service and prime location in Hobart’s Salamanca Place also make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests often rave about the atmosphere at Peppina, describing it as both elegant and inviting. The menu’s focus on seasonal, local ingredients is frequently praised, as is the attention to detail in the preparation and presentation of each dish. Many diners also appreciate the extensive wine selection and knowledgeable staff who offer helpful pairing recommendations.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some reviewers mention that while the food is delicious, the prices can be high for the portion sizes, particularly with the more premium dishes. A few guests also noted that the restaurant can become busy during peak times, which may affect service speed.
Conclusion
Hobart’s thriving food scene offers something for every palate, with these top five restaurants showcasing the best the city has to offer. Each venue provides a unique dining experience that highlights Tasmania’s incredible local produce. Whether you’re in the mood for bold Latin American flavours at Frank or the refined elegance of Fico, these restaurants are guaranteed to deliver unforgettable meals. Be sure to book early, as these highly rated spots are popular with both locals and visitors alike.