Urban picnics: outdoor dining in the city
The sun is shining, days are longer, temperatures are up and drinks are flowing – it's finally summer!
This time of year really brings Launceston to life. Summer events, live music and seasonal menu changes are all perfect excuses to make a trip into the city and enjoy some good company, good food and great times. Whether you're keen for Friday knockoffs with co-workers, weekend brunch with friends, a day in the park with the family or even a solitary morning walk with the dog, the summer months are where memories are made.
There are some particular eateries in Launnie that really shine this season – outdoor dining being the standout. Let's take a look at some prime locations for a sunny-side-up breakfast, leisurely afternoon lunch, dinner in the cool of the urban canopy, or evening drinks in the balmy night air.
Breakfast
Tinka Coffee Brewers
Tinka has recently added a dining deck to their street-side dining area, expanding an already lovely spot to sit and savour a delicious (and Instagram-worthy) breakfast.
📍 147 St John St
Earthy Eats
Earthy Eats serves seasonal menus with a focus on local produce, and their outdoor dining area is off-street, with plenty of shade and plants around to take the heat out of the day. Dogs welcome!
📍 19 Kingsway
Tidal Café
Enjoy water views and cool morning breezes at this lovely little café on the Seaport. This location is a great stop if you have kids, and is only a stone's throw away from Riverbend Park and other attractions.
📍 5/28 Seaport Blvd
Local Hideout Café
Hidden in the laneway to the Centreway Arcade, Local Hideout is a fab place for brunch with friends. Their outdoor dining area is ideal for people-watching.
📍 82 Brisbane St
Mad Apple Café
If delicious, creative food is what you're after, then Mad Apple has you covered! Bonus: they're vegetarian, with a generous vegan offering also. Their outdoor dining space is lush and green, with plenty of sun.
📍 122 St John St
Lunch
Elaia
One of the few places you can enjoy an authentic Greek feast, Elaia is a fantastic option for brunch or lunch. The outdoor seating is shaded and comfy, and in a great spot for dog walkers.
📍 240 Charles St
Pachinko
Pachinko is a gorgeous hole-in-the-wall eatery serving up Japanese dishes izakaya-style (think yummy share plates). Relax in the ambiance and try out some international tipples at the bar.
📍 23 Quadrant Mall
Grain of the Silos
Grain of the Silos, Grain Café and Woody's Bar are all fantastic stops, but for lunch, our pick has to be Grain of the Silos. The outdoor dining areas at this hotel have brilliant views overlooking the river and surrounds.
📍 89 Lindsay St, Invermay
Turkish Tukka
If you're after a casual spot for lunch, Turkish Tukka is a top pick. Delicious authentic Turkish food in a breezy street-side setting? Yes, please!
📍 77 George St
Boatyard
Perhaps one of the best spots in Launnie for fish and chips, this popular venue has a lovely sunny outdoor area to enjoy, complete with water views.
📍 13 Park St
Dinner
Northern Public House
The rooftop bar of classic Aussie corner pub Northern Public House is perfect for Friday knockoffs. Grab a beer, nab a feed, kick back and bask in the sunshine.
📍 124 George St
The Metz
A long time Launceston favourite, The Metz has a lovely little street-side dining area for patrons to spend time people-watching and soaking up those final afternoon rays. Local produce, modern cuisine, top-notch cocktails.
📍 119 St John St
Alchemy
Another favourite amongst Launnie locals, Alchemy has an extensive menu of both food and drinks available to order and enjoy in the buzzing atmosphere of George Street.
📍 90 George St
Mudbar
Whether it's a special occasion or just another day, Mudbar is a go-to venue for a meal outside. Their produce is as fresh and local as it gets, and their modern menu is sure to please anyone.
📍 28 Seaport Blvd
The Plough Inn
Hungry for some classic Aussie pub fare? The Plough has you covered. Their rooftop dining area is the perfect place for a casual bite to eat, a function, or date night.
📍 170 Brisbane St
Drinks
Kings Bridge Bar & Restaurant
With weekly cocktail specials, a solid bar menu, regular live music and close proximity to the Gorge, Kings Bridge is a fantastic spot to settle in for an evening of frivolity after a day in the sun.
📍 147 Paterson St
Bar Two
If you're after some Melbourne laneway vibes right here at home, this hidden gem is a great stop. Sample cheese boards and snacks paired with amazing wines by expert staff.
📍 47A Brisbane St
Bar Stelo
If an expertly crafted cocktail is what you're craving, this is the bar for you. Take in street-side or courtyard views and a pleasant atmosphere, with the always incredible Stelo at Pierre's right next door.
📍 88a George St
Bar Urbane
Small plates, high-quality Tasmanian wines and spirits and riverside views with a variety of well beloved restaurants nearby – what more could you ask for?
📍 26 Seaport Blvd
The Royal Oak
For a view of Launceston you probably haven't seen before, live music and some brilliant drinks, Launnie favourite The Royal Oak has you covered. Their rooftop bar has had a facelift and is ready for some good times.
📍 14 Brisbane St
Hungry for more?
This was only a small taste of the outdoor dining Launnie has on offer!
If you'd like to explore more, take a look at our other listings for venues with outdoor dining.