Details unveiled of Hobart’s new fine dining restaurant

Hobart’s new five-star hotel, The Tasman, has unveiled details of Peppina, set to open at the end of the year as its signature restaurant

The local produce-driven eatery will be headed by Tasmanian native Massimo Mele as culinary director  alongside head chef Glynn Byrnes. 

Peppina’s menu will draw on Massimo’s Italian heritage and experience, borrowing his nonna’s nickname to give Italian-inspired cuisine a local Tasmanian twist.

Located on Salamanca Place and close to the waterfront, Peppina will be the culinary heart of Hobart’s Parliament Square development, also home to The Tasman, part of the Marriott Luxury Collection. 

Mele’s passion lies in discovering and building connections with a network of the finest producers, many of which are found on the island.

This highly seasonal, producer-led approach represents a level of commitment for Massimo that has been years in the making.

The 190-seat restaurant and private dining room seating 24 will be centered around the energy of an open kitchen, featuring a wood-fired oven and open firepit that will present a menu of seasonal pastas, locally sourced meats and seafood cooked on the grill, and a selection of antipasti.

Byrnes joins the team as head chef, having previously worked Garagites, Aloft and Fico.

“Peppina represents the nostalgia and wholehearted culture of Italian hospitality in a way that I hope will make our guests feel relaxed and at home,” Mele says. 

“While the food is inspired by this incredible island and an emphasis on quality. I am proud of the effort and work that has gone on behind the scenes to capture the very best in produce, and look forward to sharing this in a such a special setting.”