Throw in a talented chef and his partner, a charming front-of-house professional.
Factor in a waterfront location overlooking Great Oyster Bay on the booming east coast of Tasmania. And add some superb local produce.
Then a wine by the glass selection featuring names like Two Tonne Tasmania, Lubiana and Kelvedon Estate.
What you get is one of Tasmania's hottest gourmet locations: the Waterloo Inn in Swansea - around a 90-minute drive from Hobart, but well worth the trip.
The dining room of the Waterloo Point Hotel retains a stag's head, pool table, and blackboard menu while the furnishings are comically out of date, particularly the disastrous drapes.
Which matters not a jot when the food and service are this good.
The Waterloo Inn is a two-person business, operated by chef Zac Green and his partner Alex Sumner.
We shared a deliciously spicy grilled octopus with chilli oil and labne (above); and super tender venison skewers in a tasty jus for starters.
Then came a modern take on a pub favourite: a pheasant scallopini and a moist, flavoursome whole rainbow trout with asparagus.
We shared a deliciously spicy grilled octopus with chilli oil and labne (above); and super tender venison skewers in a tasty jus for starters.
Then came a modern take on a pub favourite: a pheasant scallopini and a moist, flavoursome whole rainbow trout with asparagus.
Dishes are designed to be shared, except perhaps the lemon posset with shortbread. I wanted it all to myself.
"The inspiration for The Waterloo comes from our favourite cosy pubs," say Zac and Alex. "The kind that feel like a home away from home.
"Our venue is designed for relaxation and good times. There's a bar that's perfect for a quick drop in for a glass of wine and a snack, while our pub hotel dining room is ideal for when you feel like settling in."
On Sundays, there is a three-course set lunch featuring seasonal produce.
Now for the bad news. The Waterloo Inn has become a “destination dining” venue.
Don't think of arriving and expecting to get a table. Plan ahead, book ahead.
The Waterloo Inn is open Wednesday-Friday for dinner, Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch.
See https://www.waterlooswansea.com/
