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Knopwood's Retreat

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

In days gone by, you could imagine the former glory of this sandstone warehouse, filled with workers joking about and having a laugh at the boss, perhaps even smuggling in the odd bottle of plonk (soooo Australian) to get a head start on Friday knock-off drinks. Lucky to say, not a lot has changed at Knopwoods Retreat. An icon in the Hobart social scene, this bar and restaurant is never short of a flock of lads or a gaggle of lasses, all worshiping the glory that is fermented grapes or yeast and hops. On weekends, the outdoor terrace fills with revellers and the wine flows like a Roman street party.

About a dozen (give or take) beers are chilled and ready to pour eagerly from the many taps at the bar. And if there's nothing in a keg that takes your fancy, there's a host more lagers, ales, stouts and more waiting in the fridges. Of course, a decent wine list accompanies the girth of the beer selection, and makes for the perfect compliment for the above-par pub-grub. Tuck into some of Knopwood's famous chilli mussels and you won't go home disappointed.

While other bars are keen to empty your wallet or purse with expensive cocktails or boutique beers, Knopwood's seems content to simply drag you back, night after night with its friendly service, quality food and abundant booze. Lord knows, we don't really need anything else.
Eliza Doxey, March 2008