Hobart is OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Is it just me, or does Hobart suddenly feel like it's bustling with energy and open for business? Wandering the streets I'm seeing new doors flung open for business, signalling a new confidence and rigour in the 'once sleepy' CBD. And these new folks are setting up shop in a way that highlights Tassie goodness- showing off where they source local ingredients, carefully selecting items made by local hands, and even allowing you to spin a record to match your brisket sandwich choice. In its own special way, Hobart is certainly open for business.

Take a peek below at some of Tailored Tasmania's new picks as well as some goodies that aren't quite shiny and new, but worth a visit. Below you can pick up some antlers on Liverpool Street, eat some well-aged Cape Grim beef or laze in picnic-style on the bends of Taroona.

Tasman Quartermasters

You might recognise these fantastic burgers from Mona Market or even Dark Mofo where the crew wore goggles and 'torched' nearly 2,000 burgers in the first 15 hours. How could there be such hype? Well for one, the 14-day dry-aged beef burgers are incredible, and secondly if Stuart Addision had any more enthusiasm about ethical fast food he'd be herding us all round the city streets yelling its praises.

As we settle in to a delicious menu ranging from VERY sloppy joes to St. Peters Pass Wallaby burgers, Stuart tells us how they age the beef themselves, how everything is local, and his bigger hopes for the new wine bar and burger joint. He's so hospitable he even takes us on a tour upstairs, (before it was open to the public) and tells us of a dungeon down below....that we weren't game to enter.

If you like tender, juicy burgers served up with a hell of a smile and a friendly chat with the burger master himself, head to Tasman Quartermasters. And be sure to wash it down with a  Willie Smith's cider from, of course, just down the road in the Huon.

Address: 134 Elizabeth St

The Schwartz Sandwiches 

Well these guys will probably have you giggling before you even get your order in. After being mightily impressed that we'd parked over two car spaces, they offered for us to change the tunes on the record player below the counter. Nice touch. But as cheerful as they are, they mean serious business when it comes to locally sourced produce. They even have a whole map dedicated to ensuring you know where all the tasty ingredients hail from.

The beef comes from the windswept shores of Cape Grim, milk from Cygnet, fruit and veg from lush Huonville soils, the leaves from Saltwater River, lamb and pork from across the channel at Bruny and the tasty bread is baked by Pigeon Hole. So when you order any Schwartz sandwich, you know you'll be biting into a wholesome handful of Tassie. And I mean handful, they're very generous and each is filled to the brim.

Address: 133 Elizabeth St

Gather Handmade

For a retail intermission, stop in at Gather Handmade on Liverpool Street and pick yourself up some antlers! This cosy little delight is filled with handmade treasures, many of which are made right here in Tassie. Locals will recognise some familiar designs and be inspired by some new finds.

From fresh flowers to plush pillows to quirky hanging gardens and cow hide clutches, it's impressive how much is tucked inside Gather. But it's not just about what's on the shelf here, you'll be charmed by the friendly staff and if you're as lucky as me, even be given a delicious cupcake. That may have been a one off, but be assured every time you step inside you'll find something special here.

Address: 166 Liverpool St

The Picnic Basket

A few peaceful bends out of Hobart is The Picnic Basket. I've been meaning to visit for quite some time, and let me say, I may have just found a new favourite hideaway for lazy, late Sunday brunch. It's everything a Sunday should be- warm and friendly, bright and cheery, and filled with the sound of morning chatter punctuated by the hum of a busy coffee machine. Move onto the menu, and who still serves soup with freshly baked in-house bread for just $6.50? 

That's right, they bake their own sourdough, fruit, rye and organic spelt breads in the big bright kitchen and even have their own 'recyclibrary' of books to choose from. Big windows invite the morning sun to stream through, water views line the back of the dining area and the Picnic Basket seems to cast a spell that would have you believe you're eating in a family home. The atmosphere is so relaxed, you could be forgiven for outstaying your welcome.

From a menu of politely named items including Tall Man/Woman's breakfast for those of us who are seven-foot and extra hungry, I chose Miss Watson's. She came with avocado, show roasted tomato and grilled holoumi on wholemeal toast and although I'm not sure who she is, I must say she was absolutely delicious.

Address: 176 Channel Highway

berta - north hobart

Berta is all about coffee, food and wine. And they do it very well. This stylish new addition to the 'NoHo' strip, captures the essence of North Hobart in one smooth swoop. It's has a cheery courtyard, fantastic breakfast menu, attentive service with complimentary smiles, and is the ideal place to catch up with good friends.

myu easy bites - malaysian restaurant

Although not new, Myu is an unassuming little restaurant on New Town Road that  can easily be missed. Once inside, Ian and Ling will have you feeling like you're part of the family. In fact, we were even served with one cute little baby attached as an 'apprentice waitress' who brought smiles to all the diners. Order a pan fried radish cake and you'll get a little smile if you're lucky! Tasty and very well priced treats range from sticky beef ribs to slow braised pork shank and fresh Tassie scallops. 

Address: Shop 2/93 Newtown Road

The new look Hobart

That wraps up a longer than expected wander through a few of Hobart's new doors. Although, Sweet Hut is also new to Sandy Bay Road and having stumbled through their door on opening day last Sunday, a gesture of complimentary cake was welcomed. So be sure to hop in there and sample Hong Kong style egg waffles served with Tassie Valhalla ice-cream and a range healthy juices.

It's an exciting time for Hobart as summer approaches and new businesses dot the city landscape. They've all taken the courage to offer something new to the city, so why not say hello and support them through the early days. And enjoy the new flavours, colours, and scents of Hobart in return.

Words and images by Alice Hansen