When you embark on a tasting experience, it becomes a journey of culinary discovery and a sensory delight-the subtle aromas that waft from the dish, the careful curation of flavours and textures. As the first bite is savoured, the taste buds come alive, as they relish the complex interplay of ingredients. We’re used to picture-perfect dishes that already condition our degustation, but what if it didn’t depend on sight? The popular Dining in the Dark experience flips the script of what we consider a typical tasting experience.
Blindfolded and with a discerning palate and an adventurous spirit, at Dining in the Dark you’ll approach the sampling of a secret three-course meal with eager anticipation and even nerves at first. Returning to the elegant T42 Hobart, the mysterious menu is prepared with only the freshest seasonal ingredients to tempt your taste buds. Enjoy the mastery of the restaurant’s chefs and celebrate T42’s culinary artistry with a profound and memorable experience that enriches the soul.
What to expect at Dining in the Dark?
Dining in the Dark will break down all your preconceptions of what a food tasting can be. Upon arrival, you’ll be handed a blindfold (deep-cleaned after every use) and then you’ll be led by the attentive waiters to a darkened and candlelit room, where you’ll be served a scrumptious three-course menu.
With the sense of sight eliminated, the theory is that the other senses—namely taste, smell and touch—take over to elevate your meal to a whole new level. Depending on your preference, the meal will feature meat, seafood or veggies. While the menu will be unknown to the diners, you can expect dishes that draw inspiration from Australian cuisine and bring out the freshness and beautiful variety of Australian produce.
Now, eating while blindfolded is not an easy endeavour, but you can use whatever comes naturally to you, whether it’s the cutlery provided by the restaurant or your hands to discern the ingredients. So, get creative, leave your hesitations at the door and most importantly, no peeking!! You’ll soon find out that focusing on taste, smell and touch alone can be a truly enlightening experience.
Where is Dining in the Dark?
Located at Elizabeth Street Pier with stunning views of the River Derwent and Kunanyi, T42 offers modern Australian cuisine at its finest. The elegant restaurant has been on the Hobart waterfront since 1997, serving incredible food for generations. This iconic Hobart institution focuses on letting the best of Tasmanian produce shine, whether it’s from below the sea or the lush, rolling landscapes of the region.
From grilled red prawns and delicate scallops to barley risotto and salmon tartare, you can’t go wrong with any of the striking items on the menu. What’s more, they boast an eclectic selection of wines and beers and a wide variety of spirits and cocktails, making it the perfect place to share a delicious plate of food with friends and family and let go of the worries of everyday life.
Dining in the Dark Reviews
Very good meal and excellent service!
Such an amazing experience. Very interesting how your other senses kick in when you’re blindfolded. My husband had the seafood menu and I had the red meat menu. It was fun trying to place flavours, textures, and smells. Also very interesting navigating tools on the table and conversation with your party. Definitely recommend!
Great hosts, food and location!
Although it might seem bonkers in the beginning, relax and open your mind to this immersive culinary experience that allows you to heighten the remaining of your senses and enjoy food at T42 like never before.
It’s a great date idea and makes for a brilliant plan to share with your mates. You’ll definitely talk about it for years to come! Tickets are available at $110 per person and you can choose between a 6pm or 8:30pm sitting.