Barilla Bay Oyster Farm

Barilla Bay Oyster Farm combines a working oyster farm, retail shop and restaurant in a setting overlooking the farm and the surrounding Pittwater and Coal Valley landscape. For visitors to Port Arthur, Tasmania, it offers a chance to eat fresh local seafood while seeing how the venue’s aquaculture operation fits into the experience. The shop sells oysters for eating in or taking away, along with other Tasmanian produce and gift lines, including goods from Bridestowe Lavender, House of Fudge and Tasmanian Honey.

The restaurant is upstairs on Level 1 and focuses on fresh, local produce in a relaxed, contemporary setting. Oysters are central, with natural and Kilpatrick varieties featured at the venue’s special all-you-can-eat evenings, while the broader menu includes seafood and non-seafood choices. The restaurant also caters for different styles of visit, from a casual meal with family or friends to business gatherings and larger functions. The site notes that a lift is available, which may be useful for guests planning a visit upstairs.

The farm tours add a more hands-on element. The one-hour experience covers oyster growing from spat through to the table, includes an oyster shucked for guests and tastings of Gillespies Ginger Beer, brewed at Barilla Bay. It also introduces Candy Abalone, a premium dried abalone processed on site, including the divers’ work and drying methods. The tour finishes with six fresh oysters to try. Tours are offered on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, making this a suitable option for visitors who want more context behind the food rather than simply stopping for lunch.

Barilla Bay was established in 1980 by the Forrest family, initially chosen for its water quality, tidal renewal and location. The business later developed cultivation methods intended to improve oyster consistency and became involved in the production of single-seeded oysters. A farm shop opened in 1992, followed by the restaurant and replacement shop in 2004. Today, the venue suits seafood enthusiasts, curious first-time oyster eaters, families, couples and groups looking for a Tasmanian food experience with a farm connection. Lunch is available on selected days, with dinner offered Thursday to Saturday according to the restaurant information on the site; bookings are recommended for special event nights.