A nationally recognised winery has officially taken over the food and drink operations at Hobart’s Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, marking the centrepiece of the biggest upgrade in the gardens’ history.
Bird in Hand, known as one of Australia’s leading producers of cool-climate wines, has opened a tasting room, bistro and kiosk at the gardens, with a fine dining restaurant set to follow in the coming weeks.
The launch is part of a $7.6 million upgrade funded by the state government.
Parks Minister Nick Duigan said the restaurant refurbishment was a key part of the investment.
“The restaurant refurbishment is a significant part of the Tasmanian Government’s $7.6m upgrade – the biggest in the garden’s history,” he said.
“This partnership will establish the Gardens as a premier food and beverage destination for the next decade and will feature both casual and fine dining options, bespoke event spaces, and retail wine offerings.”
More than 400,000 people visit the gardens each year.
Duigan said the partnership would further enhance Tasmania’s visitor experience.
Bird in Hand already has vineyards on Tasmania’s east coast at Seymour, established in 2020, and a long-term leased vineyard in Rowella in the Tamar Valley since 2024.
The 15-year partnership will also see Bird in Hand manage weddings and events across indoor and outdoor spaces on the site.
The upcoming fine dining restaurant will offer a set degustation menu put together by executive chef Patrick Prenter, drawing inspiration from local produce and suppliers.
Australian interior designer Georgie Shepherd worked with local makers to fit out the venues, featuring furniture by Tasmanian designers Matthew Prince and Scott Van Tuil, ceramics by George Vozar and photography by Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Ricky Maynard.
Bird in Hand founder and executive director Andrew Nugent said his family had felt a deep connection to Tasmania for years.
“Our partnership with the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is a natural evolution of our growing connection with the state – allowing us to share our wines and commitment to sustainability in a setting of extraordinary beauty and cultural significance,” he said.
Renovation work on the visitor centre and restaurant began in October 2025, with the broader visitor experience project expected to be finished later this year.
