Fortunately for all, the Peppermint Bay Bistro (http://www.peppermintbay.com.au) is not a theme-park dining experience based on all things tooth-pastey in taste. The bay itself was almost certainly named for the stands of what are presumably peppermint gums lining its shores and that frame the gorgeous views of nearby Bruny Island. But enough of nomenclature and botany; this is a 'blog for lovers of cars and food, after all!
Peppermint Bay is located about forty-five minutes' drive south of Hobart in the seaside village of Woodbridge. Those of you looking to maximise your driving experience can elect to take the more scenic route along Sandy Bay Road, through Taroona on the Channel Highway and past the shot-tower, then on to Kingston. Doing so offers wonderful views of the River Derwent, South Arm to the east and glimpses of Bruny Island further south. If you're in a hurry or are navigationally challenged, it's easier to take the Southern Outlet straight to Kingston, after which you will continue on towards Margate, Snug, Kettering and, finally, Woodbridge.
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| The al fresco dining area with Bruny Island in the background (internet image) |
Naturally, the UMPHs chose the scenic route when they set of in their X1/9, taking particular delight in the short stretch between Kettering and Woodbridge with its winding tarmac and unfolding glimpses of the d'Entrecasteaux Channel (or 'The Channel', as the locals like to call it). As distracting as those views are, there's no chance that visitors less familiar with the area will miss the bistro, as it's prominently located on the shores of the bay.
| (Internet image) |
It's not possible to book a lunch-time table. However, there's ample seating, inside and out, and even though the bistro was very busy, the UMPHs were able to secure a sunny spot within the main dining room, looking out of its picture windows and over The Channel.
The lunch-time menu is simple but offers a good variety of mainly Tasmanian fare, comprising of oysters, shucked to order; warm olives; salted pistachios; and house-baked breads for entree, ranging in price between $3.5 and $12. A variety of vegetarian and carnivorous offerings make up the mains, including cured ocean trout; grilled octopus; beer-battered fish and chips; spatchcock; a 350 gram strip-loin; slow-braised goat; and 'very slowly-cooked lamb,' to mention but a few, all available with a mix of moderately-priced sides ($5 - $ 9). Prices fall within the $12 to $69 bracket (the $69 is for the lamb and serves two). Deserts include a smoked almond panna cotta, chocolate mousse, house-made ice creams and sorbets, and a Pyengana cheddar with pickles and quince paste ($6 - $12).
As befits a Tasmanian restaurant, there's also an extensive local wine list. There are reds, whites and sparklings from all of Tasmania's best wineries and a number of the region's beers, too, ranging from bigger operations like Cascade through to offerings from Moo Brew (http://moobrew.com.au) and even an excellent on-tap Harbour Master ale from the Hobart Brewing Company (http://www.hobartbrewingco.com.au). Cider drinkers won't be disappointed, either; Pagan, Willie Smith's and Frank's are all available.
The UMPH's thoroughly enjoyed their selection of ocean trout (Mrs), octopus (UMPH) and shared thick cut chips with aoli, and steamed greens with a lemon dressing. A couple of drinks complemented the meals nicely and prompt, friendly service rounded off the experience perfectly.
It would have been downright silly not to finish the day with a foray further south so, with appetites sated, the UMPHs headed along The Channel's western shore through Gordon, past Verona Sands and on to Huonville, before heading home. It's a fabulous drive through beautiful country and an experience that UMPH never tires of.
Until next time ...
U M P H.
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