Top Places to Drink in Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second major city (behind Hobart) and is bursting with food and wine hotspots, cultural destinations and natural wonders. It’s also only a short drive from Holm Oak’s estate. On child-free evenings, you can find us doing the rounds of the top places to drink in Launceston.

With some great new launches and building development over the last few years, Launceston’s food and wine scene is now thriving.

Here’s our pick of the great wine bars and drinking establishments in Launceston

Kingsway Bar

This funky little place in a quiet alley in Launceston showcases a great range of Tasmanian craft whisky and gin, as well as an impressive range of beers. Its design is industrial cool with curious artwork and ambient lighting.

Address: 33 Kingsway 7250 Launceston
https://www.facebook.com/TheKingsway/

Saint John Craft Beer Bar (pictured)

Named after its founding position on Saint John Street in Launceston, this intimate craft beer venue features up to 14 taps of international, Australian and, of course, Tasmanian, craft beer. There are more than 170 bottled beer options, ciders, wines and top shelf spirits.

One of the best bits about this bar is that you can BYO food or order street food from the food van that’s positioned out the back from 5pm.

Address: 133 St John Street Launceston
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Tandy’s Ale House

This small family-run business is big on character. Its focus is clearly on selling Tasmanian craft beer but Tassie ciders and other spirits are also in the line-up. The exposed brick walls, timber benches and open fire make this a truly inviting place to sit back and enjoy the local drops. The owners rebuilt the old site with Tasmanian-sourced materials only, including Huon pine tap handles.

And the heart-warming meaning behind this place is that it’s named after the owner’s sister, Tandy, who died from ovarian cancer a few years ago. A portion of the sale of each beer sold in Tandy’s goes to the Ovarian Cancer Australia.

Address: 100-102 Elizabeth Street Launceston
https://www.facebook.com/tandysalehouse/?fref=ts

Havilah

Havilah is the new wine bar and bottle shop in town, having opened in July 2020. Their concise and well executed menu changes monthly. Havilah focus on local and international cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal produce from local growers. First and foremost a wine bar, their aim is to situate Tasmanian wines alongside their international counterparts. They also offer a list of classic cocktails, craft beer and alcohol-free drinks. Havilah only accept bookings for their chef menu – a tasting menu of share plates selected from across their menu – though they always save a bit of space for walk-ins.

Address: 178 Charles Street Launceston
https://havilahwine.com.au/

Mudbar and Restaurant

Mudbar and Restaurant is a feel-good place to eat and be seen and a cool place to hang out. This restaurant and bar perched on the North Esk River’s edge makes a great special occasion spot. Choose from the bar’s super-long but high-quality wine list, boutique beers and spirits, or a fun cocktail.

Address: 28 Seaport Boulevard, Launceston
https://www.mudbar.com.au/

The Barrel Collective (formerly Red Brick Road Ciderhouse)

Nestled in the heart of Launceston, The Barrel Collective stands as a beacon for discerning drinkers seeking an extraordinary experience. With its rustic charm and an impressive array of locally sourced spirits, wines, and craft beers, this bar offers a haven for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The ambience, adorned with reclaimed wood and cozy corners, sets the stage for lively conversations or intimate gatherings.

From their curated whisky flights to unique cocktail creations, The Barrel Collective elevates the art of imbibing in Launceston.

Address: 63a Brisbane St, Launceston
https://thebarrelcollective.com.au/

Stillwater Wine Bar

If it’s confident elegance you’re after, the bar at Stillwater has your name on it. After a sensitive renovation, this old riverside mill makes the perfect spot for wine lovers interested in trying top local Tassie drops as well as exciting overseas wines.

The food is refined yet simple – how does a charcuterie board with cornichons washed down with a glass of Tassie Riesling sound? Or whisky-cured Huon salmon with a white Burgundy? It’s all possible at Stillwater.

Address: 2 Bridge Rd, Launceston
https://www.stillwater.com.au

Miner’s Gold

If you’re looking for somewhere slightly further afield for a cleansing ale, you might also like to try the Miners Gold Brewery. A restaurant and taproom located in the mining town of Beaconsfield.

With a rotating range of beers across six taps, they also offer brewery tours and tastings to cleanse your palate. Don’t leave it too late to visit though, they close at 5pm each day.

Address: 5 West Street Beaconsfield, 7270
minersgold.com.au