Tasmanian oysters are among the finest in the world, and their heritage on the island stretches back thousands of years, making them an essential part of the local seafood scene. Whether you prefer your oysters served au natural or creatively dressed, Tasmania offers some of the freshest and most delicious oysters straight from its cold, pristine waters. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to experience Tasmania’s oyster offerings:
- Barilla Bay Oysters (Cambridge)
Just a short drive from Hobart, Barilla Bay is one of Tasmania’s most famous oyster farms. They specialise in Pacific oysters and are known for their fresh, plump, and flavourful oysters, harvested right on-site. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about oyster farming, enjoy tastings, or dine at the farm’s restaurant, which offers stunning views and a range of seafood dishes.
- Freycinet Marine Farm (Coles Bay)
Nestled in the stunning Freycinet Peninsula, this oyster farm offers freshly shucked oysters, harvested daily from their pristine waters. Freycinet Marine Farm is renowned for serving oysters that are rich in flavour, thanks to the cool, clean water of Great Oyster Bay. You can enjoy them straight from the farm or at nearby beaches, surrounded by the beauty of Tasmania’s coastline.
- Get Shucked (Bruny Island)
Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s oyster hotspots, and Get Shucked is a must-visit for oyster lovers. Their oysters are farmed in the clean waters of Great Bay, and visitors can either buy freshly shucked oysters to enjoy on the go or sit down at their licensed oyster bar, which serves oysters with a range of sauces, from classic lemon to more adventurous combinations.
- Melshell Oyster Shack (Dolphin Sands)
Located on Tasmania’s east coast, Melshell Oyster Shack offers a quintessential Tasmanian oyster experience. The oysters here are harvested from the waters of the Swan River and are celebrated for their clean, briny flavour. Melshell is a family-owned farm, and their small, charming shack lets visitors enjoy fresh oysters with a personal touch, straight from the sea.
- The Lobster Shack (Bicheno)
Although known for its lobster, The Lobster Shack in Bicheno also serves some of the freshest oysters in Tasmania. Located right by the ocean, you can enjoy a plate of oysters with breathtaking views of the coastline. This is a great stop for those exploring Tasmania’s east coast, offering oysters that reflect the clean, cold waters of the region.
- Bangor Vineyard Shed (Dunalley)
For a truly Tasmanian experience, head to Bangor Vineyard Shed. Here, you can pair freshly shucked oysters with excellent local wines, all while enjoying panoramic views of the vineyard and coastline. The oysters are sourced from the nearby Blackman Bay, and their briny, delicate flavour pairs perfectly with Bangor’s crisp white wines.
Tasmanian Oyster Varieties
Tasmania is home to two main types of oysters: the native Angasi oyster and the widely farmed Pacific oyster. The Pacific oyster is known for its clean, salty flavour and plump texture, while the Angasi offers a more complex, earthy taste that is less commonly found but highly prized by connoisseurs.
Oysters are more than just food in Tasmania—they’re part of the island’s heritage. Whether you’re enjoying them freshly shucked on a farm or dressed up at a seaside restaurant, Tasmanian oysters are a must-try. With an abundance of places offering the freshest oysters around, you’re sure to find your perfect oyster experience on the island. Don’t forget to pair them with local wine for the ultimate Tasmanian treat!
Food and Wine