When our one month old daughter suggested she take us to the birthplace of one of my favourite ciders for Fathers Day I wasn’t going to argue. What followed was a procession of delicious food and beverages in an idyllic location.

The Apple Shed is located a short drive from Hobart in the Huon Valley. Best known to many as the home of the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival it is also houses an apple museum, bar, function centre and cafe. As well as their in house kitchen they also have a fantastic variety of guest chefs popping in regularly for events and feature live music most Friday nights. Melbourne band The Willie Wagtails were playing to an appreciative audience this day.

The bar is stocked with a unique assortment of beverages including around a dozen different types of the Willie Smith Cider and a range of boutique spirits and wines. Hobart Brewing Company were featured this week as well with their Apple Bok and others on tap. For those that need an introduction they have a tasting paddle of 4 different ciders for $12.

Inside was fully booked but there is plenty of space for everyone on such a beautiful spring day. We grabbed a table in the barn but families were setting up picnic spots everywhere there was space. Despite the crowds service was quick with a friendly laid back country vibe to it.

We settled in with cider, ordered some food, ordered some more and enjoyed everything on offer.

The menu of the day, it changes as the seasons do, featured a variety of dishes making great use of local produce. Touches of home style cooking were evident and celebrated throughout.

A lot of my favourite dishes were represented. The olives were a generous medley in a light but complimentary marinade that still allowed the many different types to individually shine. The scotch egg a fond childhood memory that was never going to be as good as Grandmas but put up a good fight nonetheless.

The Charcuterie Board really showed off some of the best of the Huon with house cured meats, terrine, condiments and Summer Kitchen bread. All of the separate parts were perfection although the terrine stood out as spectacular, meaty and flavoursome.

I really couldn’t fault anything, even the prices were very cheap. It’s a great spot for an extended lunch or a quick bite and somewhere I’d definitely encourage interstate visitors and locals alike to check out.

THE APPLE SHED

2064 Huon Highway, Grove, Tas, 7109

Open from 10am daily

Ph: (03) 6266 4345

Willie Smith Website