Tasmania is famous for producing fine food, including seafood, dairy products and fruit, and any stay in Tasmania would not be complete without trying some. This is likely to be very different to the food you are used to in your own country, so here are a few facts about Tasmanian and Australian food so you know what to look for.

Seafood

Tasmania’s seafood is world famous, including our salmon, oysters, scallops, abalone and crayfish. Fish and chips is also a traditional – but fatty – dish. Seafood can be quite expensive, so ask some locals where to buy some.

Food from all over the world

Australian society is made up of people from all over the world and they have brought their food with them, so there is a lot of variety to choose from. It is normal for Australians to eat Italian, Thai, Vietnamese and British foods all in the same day!

Homestay eating

Tasmanians also eat a variety of cuisines at home. Traditional Anglo Saxon meals are very simple – breakfast cereal and toast, cold sandwiches for lunch, and a hot meal of meat and vegetables for dinner. Many families also regularly eat meals of pasta, stir fries, soups, curries and stews.

A homestay host will provide you with food and cook some meals for you, so they will want to know the sort of food that you like. Don’t be shy, because Australians are used to trying lots of different foods.

BBQ

When the weather is good, Australians love to barbeque (or BBQ) and eat outdoors. Lamb and beef are the most common meats cooked, although just about anything will do, including seafood, pork, chicken and even kangaroo – it is a very lean, healthy meat with a strong flavour.

Alcohol

Australians love to drink beer and wine, but legally you must be over 18. In recent years, there has been growing concern about alcohol abuse among young people. If you’re over 18, it’s okay to have a drink, but be sensible about who you are with and where you are going, and never drink before driving a car.

Delicious fruit

Eating seasonal fruits are a highlight of any trip to Tasmania, including apples, cherries, apricots, peaches, strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. These can often be bought at markets or direct from the farmer.