Where to Find the Best Pies in Tasmania

Why is Tasmania famous for pies?

There are few foods more quintessentially Australian than a pie, and few – if any – states that are as famous for pies as Tasmania. A hand-held variant of (predominantly meat) savoury pies in the British tradition, the word “pie” in Australia means something very different from what it does in the United States and elsewhere. Popping up in different variations from state to state (usually depending on what grows best and most affordably), meat pies developed into an iconic Australian takeaway food by the mid-20th century, and today they form a central part of the national cuisine (and, arguably, identity).

In late-colonial Tasmania, the pie developed largely alongside the development of two other aspects: a burgeoning, modernising agricultural sector and an increasing working-class population. The combination of high-quality beef and dairy (perfect for those buttery flakey pastry tops) established meat pies as a working lunchtime standard, while Tasmania’s particularly renowned seafood allowed for the development of a distinctly, uniquely Tasmanian delicacy: the scallop pie.

Famous Tasmanian pies

Scallop Pies 

Featuring local, meaty scallops simmered in a rich, creamy curry sauce, topped with a towering chunk of light, fluffy puff pastry, the unique scallop pie can make a serious claim of being Tasmania’s national dish. The best time to try this Tassie classic is definitely during scallop season (from April to July), when the catch is generally fresh rather than frozen. However, you can find them year-round pretty much all over the state.

Meat Pie 

The Tasmanian beef and dairy industry has always taken advantage of Tassie’s rich soils, pristine (year-round) rain supply and lush pastures to produce world-class beef and dairy. By the mid-20th century, local bakers had figured out that these two things (beef and butter) marry perfectly in a hand-held meat pie, which also happened to be incredibly popular with the local population. Hence the name, and its continuation as a staple to this day.

Of course, there are plenty of other typical Tasmanian pie types, and taste combinations. They may lack the history and heritage of those famous Tasmanian pies listed above, but these typical Tasmanian pies have become increasingly common over the years. They are worthy inclusions on any “Pietinerary”. 

Where to find the best Tasmanian pies and bakeries, by region

If you can’t decide right now but want to go somewhere to see a range of mouthwatering options, up-close, before deciding, then put these fabulous Tasmanian bakeries on your itinerary:

Hobart and around the south

Tasmanian Bakeries

Home of Tasmania’s iconic National Pie brand, and a great place to visit in Hobart, this bakery is surely the Mecca of Tasmanian pies. In addition to their famous meat pies, they have a range of other pies, sausage rolls, and pastries available fresh or frozen. It’s an industrial-scale operation that perhaps lacks the romantic beauty of a visit to some other bakeries listed here, but it’s impossible to leave this Hobart landmark off any list of the best pies in Tasmania.

Jackman & McRoss

Although pie connoisseurs may point to the fact that Jackman & McRoss can probably thank their prime Salamanca location (just a few minutes walk from Salamanca markets) and beautiful, vintage decor more than the sheer quality of their pies, there’s still little doubt that this is one of the most famous scallop pies in Tasmania. You may just have to wait a bit for it if there’s a queue. 

Bush Bakery 

A stunning scenic spot, superbly puffy-pastry pies, a relaxing atmosphere and a community-minded spirit (they are run as a not-for-profit, with proceeds going back into local community projects) – there’s a lot to love about this lovely bakery, handily located on the way south from Hobart towards Bruny Island and the Hartz Mountains.

The Richmond Bakery 

Best known for their scallop pie but also delivering delicious versions of other Tassie favourites like chicken & camembert, steak and mushroom and potato-top, this popular Coal River bakery is well worth a stop. It’s in a great location with a large outdoor area, and there’s an armoury of delicious homemade sweet treats, too.

Brighton’s Best Bakehouse

Having taken home more awards than any other bakery at the 2022 Tasmanian Baking Show, it’s clear that Brighton’s Best Bakehouse is a serious contender for having Tasmania’s best pies, despite being a relative newcomer on the scene. They also took out awards for best danishes and best vanilla slice, so you won’t go lacking whether it’s savoury or sweet you desire!

Smith’s Family Bakery

If there is an incumbent president or defending champion regarding the best scallop pie in Hobart, Tasmania, or Australia, then it’s surely Smith’s. With a wholesale bakery in Cambridge and a spot at Salamanca Market every Saturday, Smith’s has been winning awards and acclaim for their meaty, creamy, flakey, deliciously overloaded scallop pies for years.  

Launceston and the North Coast

Manubread

Pumping out superb pies in a range of flavours along with Instagram-worthy desserts and sweet treats, Manubread is a north Launceston institution. Be sure to try the Thai green curry chicken while you’re here.

Bizy Bee Bakery 

An absolute must for any coeliac or gluten-intolerant visitors looking for a tasty Tasmanian pie, Bizy Bee go above and beyond to provide delicious, gluten-free pie and sandwich options in a wide range of flavours.

Exeter Bakery

A popular bakery plump on the main drag in Exeter, you might see a queue out the door before you smell the delicious aromas wafting out of Exeter Bakery. Head inside and get a taste of what all the fuss is about, whether one of their excellent scallop pies or something a bit different – their curried lamb “Indian Pie” is a firm favourite among locals, although they’re also known for having great vegetarian and vegan options.

Penguin Country Bakehouse 

Fantastic views from a large outdoor area, decadent cheesecakes and exquisite desserts, and even cute penguin-shaped pastry tops on their beautiful, puffy pies, there’s a lot to like about this busy bakery right by the big penguin just opposite the beach!

The East Coast

Bakery 31

A popular pie stop on a Launceston-Hobart road trip, Bakery 31 is known for creamy scallop pies and their supersized family pies. The peppered steak is a solid option, too.

Ross Village Bakery

This is surely the only Tasmanian bakery that is as popular with animé fans as it is for pie lovers, as it provided the inspiration for Kiki’s Delivery service in Hayao Miyazaki’s iconic Spirited Away film.

The Timbers Cafe 

Home of the famous Branxholm pies, this popular cafe near the Bay of Fires region has a drawcard that very few Tasmanian bakeries can match: friendly alpacas to pat or share a bite with!

Blue Edge Bakery

Hard core on proper scallop pies, you know you’re getting the real deal because Blue Edge in Bicheno only make them when fresh local scallops are available. That means you won’t find one here outside the season. Luckily, you can turn to their tasty cafe menu, fresh bread, or other delicious pies (including a signature chicken and camembert).

Dunalley Bakery 

A hearty local bakery on the way towards Port Arthur, this is a great place to stock up on pies, sweet treats, fresh bread, and even locally-famous hot cross buns (during Easter) for your trip!

Start building your own Tasmanian “Pietinerary”

If you’re keen to start tasting Tasmanian pies in real life, have a look at First Light Travel’s various Tasmanian self-drive itineraries, many of which will take you to (or near) those bakeries listed above. There’s also a blog covering topics on all things Tasmania, from what to wear in winter to how to plan a honeymoon, so take a look around if you have any more questions about planning your trip. Contact FLT’s Tasmanian travel experts, free of charge, any time, if you want help in piecing together your own personalised Tasmanian travel itinerary.