The Ducks

95 Rosevears Drive Rosevears
6330 2670
No website!

We found The Ducks only because we drove past it and, in the absence of an online presence, decided to call. Since then local social media sites have been chattering endlessly about The Ducks, so thankfully even without a website they’re getting the attention they deserve.

The Ducks is in one of the most beautiful locations you can imagine, right on the banks of the Tamar at Rosevears, 20 minutes out of Launceston up the West Tamar. It’s got indoor and outdoor seating and the views from this beautiful restaurant are just amazing.

It turns out their culinary offerings are easily a match for the aesthetics of the place. We started on a bottle of local Delamere sparkling while we decided what to eat (not an easy task) but eventually settled on some oysters and a few small plates, rather than plumping for a big main.

The oysters were perfect; there was something about the 2021 season that led to the best oysters we’ve had for years. The scallop and chorizo combination was curious but somehow worked beautifully, the kingfish sashimi was top notch, and the sticky pork belly was a satisfying way to finish.

Those four small plates were easily enough for two of us, but we’re both quite small eaters, particularly Jess. A more capable diner would have a blast exploring the mains. As usual, though, we’d rather taste four small inventions than one or two large ones.

The wine list is full of local offerings at surprisingly good prices. Our $60 sparkling was really high quality and I would have expected to pay more (or, more likely, opted for a cheaper bottle and not enjoyed it as much).

These guys regularly host music sessions and I believe it’s rapidly become the go-to spot for locals and visitors alike looking for some afternoon fun. We live just up the road so it won’t be long before we’re back.