Urban picnics: the best outdoor dining in Launceston
Whether it's the long, hot days of summer, sun-dappled mornings of spring and autumn, or even during the crisp evenings of winter, outdoor dining in the heart of Launceston is on offer, every season.
Dining al fresco combines two of our favourite things about Launnie: the eclectic cuisine from our City of Gastronomy, plus unique views of our historic buildings and surrounding nature. 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 under the stars.
Hungry for more? This list is just a taste of the 60+ local eateries that offer outdoor dining in Launceston. See the link at the end of this blog to explore all of the outdoor dining options in the heart of our city.
Breakfast
Tinka Coffee Brewers
Tinka's sidewalk dining deck (pictured above) offers the perfect environment to savour a delicious (and Instagram-worthy) breakfast. The awning of the building and seasonal umbrellas also provide shade for those extra sunny afternoons.
📍 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
Launnie Heights Café
Formerly located on George Street, Launnie Heights now occupies a larger space with big visual impact within the Tamar Yacht Club. Enjoy your coffee and all day breakfast with a side of stunning views of the Tamar, then follow up your meal with a visit to the galleries of QVMAG around the corner.
📍 7 Park 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
Levee Food Co
A favourite destination for locals and tourists alike, Levee Food Co offers a prime selection of Tasmanian sourced steaks and seafood in a relaxed riverfront setting. A great spot for lunch after a morning excursion with Tamar River Cruises.
📍 27 Seaport Blvd
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
City of Launceston Dining Decks
If you're travelling along George Street between Cameron and Brisbane, you'll notice quite a few outdoor dining options in front of several local restaurants and cafés. Installed by the City of Launceston in 2024, these dining decks are available for everyone to enjoy, whether you're having a sit-down meal from a nearby café or enjoying your own treat or coffee on the go.
📍 George 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 (and the heat lamps keep it cosy after dark). 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 Stelo
If sipping an expertly crafted cocktail al fresco is what you're craving, this is the bar for you. To enjoy the intimate and quieter courtyard views, book a meal at 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 cosy rooftop beer garden has had a facelift and is ready for some good times.
📍 14 Brisbane St
Hungry for more?
This was only a taste of Launnie's outdoor dining options.
If you'd like to explore more, take a look at our full directory of listings for venues with outdoor dining.