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 great 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 dining spots 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 undern or evening drinks in the balmy night air.

Tinka Coffee Brewers

Tinka has recently added a dining deck to their streetside dining area, expanding an already lovely spot to sit and enjoy 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 great place to stop for brunch with friends. Their outdoor dining area is ideal for peoplewatching.

📍 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 great vegan offering also. Their outdoor dining space is lush and green with plenty of sun.

📍 122 St John St

Elaia

One of the few places you can get enjoy an authentic Greek feast, Elaia is a fantastic spot for brunch or lunch. The outdoor seating is shaded and comfy, and in a great spot for dog walkers.

📍 240 Charles St

VegOut

Delicious vegan fare so good, you won't even notice it's vegan. Breakfast focaccias, quiches, smoothies and more are all on offer - and especially delicious when enjoyed in the sunshine.

📍 55 George St

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 great pick. Delicious authentic Turkish food in a breezy streetside setting? Yes please!

📍 77 George St

Boatyard

Perhaps one of the best stops in Launnie for fish and chips, it's only right that this venue has a lovely sunny outdoor area to enjoy, complete with water views.

📍 13 Park St

Northern Public House

The rooftop bar of classic Aussie corner pub Northern Public House is perfect for Friday knockoffs. Grab a beer, grab a feed, kick back and enjoy the weather.

📍 124 George St

The Metz

A long time Launceston favourite, The Metz has a great little streetside dining area for patrons to enjoy people watching and soaking up those final afternoon rays. Local produce, modern cuisine, great 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 great 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

Kings Bridge Bar & Restaurant

With weekly cocktail specials, a great 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 spent enjoying 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. Enjoy 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. Enjoy streetside or courtyard views and 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 recently been reopened and is ready for some good times.

📍 14 Brisbane St