When one pictures lunch at the Devil’s Corner Freycinet, it sounds a little dark and ominous. Seems like a place that could lean more sinister than scenic.
But as we arrive, immediately realise, its anything but.
The Arrival
Spotting the tall, iconic tower in the distance as we drive up the dirt road feels a bit like arriving at a theme park. We haven’t even stepped inside and I already have butterflies.
Walking in, it’s clear this isn’t your standard winery or restaurant. It’s a multifaceted culinary destination, with a number of exciting options to let you choose your own adventure.
A Table with a View
Before diving into the food and wine, we take a moment to pause and appreciate the breathtaking views. On a sunny autumn day, we gaze into the distance. Abundant fields of grapes, surrounded by snowcapped mountains that stretch endlessly. For a moment I feel like I’ve wandered into the final scene of The Sound of Music.
Couples are clinking glasses, oysters are being shucked, dogs are barking and kids are running around with boxes of entertainment. Hula hoops, frisbees, games. It’s relaxed, lively, and quietly spectacular.
Eating Our Way Around the Devils Corner Freycinet
We start at the pizzeria and have a lovely chat with Patrick who heads up the kitchen. This isn’t his first rodeo as he’s has stints all around the East Coast. Mid conversation I can’t help but feel myself but be rudely distracted by the delectable pastries staring me in the eye. Despite my virtuous hike all the way up to Wineglass bay this morning, I can already sense the calories burnt will shortly be well and truly reclaimed (and Im not complaining).
If you’re like me and your partner is a coeliac, you’re often regretting having to share. Nonetheless pizza at Devil’s Kitchen is surprisingly good. A fluffy charred base with a thick dough oozy sunken cheese and shavings of Parmesan and fresh basil. Its like the real stuff without the compromise.
Fishers of Freycinet
It’s a known fact Tasmania has exceptional produce and Freycinet marine farm is a standout provider of elite and sustainable seafood. Conveniently they have an eatery in the heart of Devil’s Corner Freycinet.
When produce is this good, it doesn’t need foams or fuss. Simple, fresh, and straight to the point. We start with a seafood plate. Blushing curls of smoked salmon wrap around a crunchy, creamy celery and witlof salad. Then come the tiger prawns. Pink, glossy, staring straight at you with beady eyes and poking tentacles. A quick PSA. This is not first-date food. We tear them open, twist off heads, and unapologetically dive in. Fingers messy of crustacean juices, napkins piling up, and absolutely zero regrets.
An open tin of smoked mussels appears fairly simple, but ends up being a highlight. Reminiscent of a Spanish tapas bar, each bite is smoky, rich, and powerful. There’s no meat on the table, but we’re robustly popping. A cool-climate Syrah clutches on sublimely well to compliment the flavours.
Wine O Clock
After a long, and decadent lunch, it’s time to turn to the wine. We move through a full tasting, from entry level to mid-range and premium drops. There’s something here for every palate and price point. To finish, we make our way to the top of the tower. The view from above rivals what I saw on my treacherous hike this morning, and puts this little pocket of Australia in a world class category.
Devil’s Corner Freycinet isn’t just a winery. And it’s not just a restaurant. It’s a choose your own adventure culinary experience that is elevating, much like the top of the mountain.
What We’re Addicted To: World-class produce, exceptional wine, and breathtaking views, all in one stop. It’s the kind of place where you come for a quick tasting and end up staying for hours.
What We Need To Be More Addicted: It’s not exactly around the corner and a long drive from either direction. But if anything, the journey just makes arriving feel even better.
Devil’s Corner Cellar Door 1 Sherbourne Road, Apslawn TAS 7190Opening Hours:
Daily, 10am – 5pm
