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The Drunken Admiral

Seafarers restaurant in the heart of Hobart

A seafood lover’s favourite haunt

The Drunken Admiral Seafarers Restaurant sits proudly at the picturesque Old Wharf, in the heart of Hobart’s historic waterfront. Diners can be forgiven for thinking they’re on the set of a pirate movie with the abundance of unique maritime and pirate memorabilia decorating the restaurant from bow to stern, port to starboard! 

One of Hobart’s most vibrant, iconic establishments, Drunken Admiral has been operating as a family-run restaurant since 1979 and is a popular dining spot with both locals and tourists. Offering the freshest, hearty Tasmanian seafood dishes, the Drunken Admiral building has a fascinating history even featuring the odd ghost… or two!

Take a tour to Tasmania and visit the Drunken Admiral

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Physical rating:
3 - Active/Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
11
days

See the icons of the Apple Isle on this in-depth tour of Tasmania. Fly into Hobart for 2-nights and explore the Port Arthur Historic Site. Enjoy an epic Gordon River Cruise travelling to Strahan and Queenstown. Enjoy a train journey on the West Coast Wilderness Railway line before arriving into Tullah. Take in all the sights of Wine Glass Bay with an aerial view whilst exploring the Freycinet Peninsula before heading back to Hobart.

Physical rating icon
Physical rating:
3 - Active/Moderate
Tour duration icon
Tour duration:
11
days

Treat yourself this Christmas with the awe-inspiring sights and tastes of Tasmania with 11 days discovering Port Arthur Penal Settlement, Tasman Arch, Derwent Valley, Eaglehawk Neck, Bruny Island and more. We celebrate Christmas in Hobart with a long sumptuous lunch and spend New Years Eve in Launceston. You’ll be tempted by heritage, culture, taste sensations and glorious natural scenery whilst also visiting Cradle Mountain, Strahan and Launceston.

A building with a colourful history

Hobart’s famous Drunken Admiral was built from 1825 to 1826 and was considered one of the finest in the colony. In rather extravagant fashion for the time, the building was made of brick, but with a stone façade and roofing slate imported all the way from Scotland. 

It was constructed for the Leith Australian Company, an enterprise initially established to encourage Scottish families to migrate to Australia. The company also imported a variety of goods, including alcohol, meats, foodstuffs, and other wares. Quite appropriate that it later became a restaurant!

The building served as a private residence, barracks for officers and men, and temporary accommodation for military pensioners. The building became run down and in 1851 was given to the Immigration Association and used as a depot for new migrants. In the 1880s it became a flour mill and warehouse and in 1923, converted to provide staff facilities and dining rooms.

Seafarers restaurant in the heart of Hobart

Is the Drunken Admiral haunted?

It is believed the beloved Drunken Admiral Seafarers Restaurant is one of the most haunted places in Hobart. But who are its ghostly residents? This historic building certainly doesn’t feel like your typical haunted location, with its jolly atmosphere, and walls adorned with nautical and pirate-themed memorabilia.

Some Drunken Admiral staff however tell tales of the ghost of a nine-year-old named Millie, often described as quite a trickster who causes a bit of strife, especially in the kitchen. Millie has been known to turn off the gas on the stovetop cookers or untie the staff’s apron straps.

Another well-known ghost is Henry Jones, a former owner who ran the IXL jam factory in the area. Many visitors claim to have seen his apparition. Whether or not you believe in haunted buildings or mischievous ghosts, The Drunken Admiral is guaranteed to liven up your spirit on your next trip to Hobart. 

Frequently asked questions

How old is The Drunken Admiral, Hobart?

The Drunken Admiral building was constructed in 1825-26 and has been operating as a family-run restaurant since 1979. 

What else is in Hobart’s Old Wharf area?

The Drunken Admiral is situated in Hunter Street overlooking a picturesque wharf area. The restaurant sits beside other beautifully restored fine Georgian warehouses now home to establishments like the University of Tasmania's Art School and Henry Jones Art Hotel.

Does the Drunken Admiral offer anything other than seafood?

Yes! The Drunken Admiral has an A La Carte menu offering a great range of meals using the freshest produce. Of course, they specialise in seafood but also cater to red meat eaters, chicken lovers, vegetarians, and those with special dietary needs.

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