Tasmanian pubs are going head-to-head in a two-month showdown to claim the title of the state’s best chicken parmigiana in a competition backed by local cider maker Willie Smith’s.
The search begins this month, just as the cooler weather starts to put a dent in pub crowds across the island.
Willie Smith’s Director Andrew Smith said goal is to keep locals coming through pub doors during the quieter months.
“As a major prize we are offering a year’s supply of cider to one lucky participant as an encouragement to get customers into venues and voting,” Smith said.
The contest relies on an app called ‘Parm Rater’, where customers rate their meals after ordering a parmi and cider at one of the 35 participating venues.
The pub with the highest average score takes home the crown.
Destination Southern Tasmania CEO Alex Heroys said the promotion couldn’t come at a better time.
“This will be a great promotion as people start to throw the Tassie Tuxedo on and brave the seasonal changes,” Heroys said.
Tasmanian Hospitality Association’s Steve Old is also behind the initiative, saying it’s a win for both local venues and Willie Smith’s.
“We have just come off a great summer period where occupancy data showed high visitation to Tasmania, with the flow on effect boosting hospitality venues,” he said.
“The THA supports any initiative which encourages people to continue visiting their local during our quieter months.”
Winners will be announced in early June.
