Jackman & McRoss, Hobart

 Battery Point is a wonderfully quaint, quiet, picturesque suburb dotted with vintage shops and wonderful cafes, bursting with an old-world charm. The name on everyone's lips is Jackman & McRoss: purveyor of scrumptious light meals, coffee, baked goods, chutneys and preserves. A couple of hours of people watching in its brightly lit rooms while enjoying the simple yet delicious menu offerings is a lovely way of spending a relaxing afternoon.

An item that I would not have considered ordering but for the online reviews is the scallops pie. I love scallops, but I don't much like pies. They remind me too much of school lunches or the frozen food asile: something one picks up and heats, with a heavy sign, because one had been unprepared or too busy. 

Oh, was I wrong. As one would expect, a freshly made pie crust is not in the same league as those frozen stuff. The pie crust is flakey, dense and hearty; and the curried scallops inside are bouncy and fresh. A most satisfying meal.  

Then, of course, there are the more expected lunch / brunch suspects: how about some potato rosties topped with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon and a poached egg? Each component is simple, yet when the come together, it is pure magic. It's the kind of lunches one could make at home, yet never quite get it as pretty or perfect as a café of reputable standing. 

Then there are the sweets. A monte carlo cookie is alright from the packet, but when freshly made, they are elevated and wonderful. Two buttery shortbreads envelop house-made raspberry jam and a dollop of cream. Indulgent, yet at the same time nostalgic, homely and comforting. 

The Japanese cheesecake at Jackman & McRoss is also pretty damn good. Light, fluffy, gently sour, it is smooth and honest in its sheer simplicity. 

Score: 4/5
Cost: approx $25pp
Address: 57 Hampden Road, Battery Point, Hobart, Tasmania