Faro Bar + Restaurant — Restaurant in Tasmania

What to say about dinner at Faro at MONA… well, as you walk in it feels like you are walking into the Bertesgaden Bunker, commonly known as The Eagles Nest. You go down a couple of stories then walk along a bright tunnel for about 20m. You come out into the restaurant where the layout is simple and minimalist with a lovely view of the river and landscape. The menu is 5 courses and I had the wine pairing for an extra $60 for 5 glasses (this should have been an alarm - very reasonable for 5 glasses) The first course came, a trio of starters but the one which looked like a samosa tasted like the pastry was from a factory - a bit plasticky. Then we had a seafood dish, prawns and octopus well over cooked and the emulsion tried to take this away from the diner. Then we had French Onion soup which the chef had tried to put his slant on it and the only resemblance to French Onion Soup was the barely tasting gyuere emulsion and then the main, venison, which was nice. The waiter we had was somewhat challenged when asked about the wines he was pouring. The first time I asked where the wine was from his response was a ripper…. “Here” was his reply then walked off. Another alarm bell… the dessert came and that was nice and the Riesling (from ‘here’) was the highlight of the meal.

During the courses it is a theatre restaurant with some unusual but interesting antics from the ‘actors’. Some of the diners really got into the vibe, trying to emulate the actors but in reality left some of us wondering what sort of meds they were on. Each to their own I suppose…

After dinner I asked the waiter for a toothpick. He came back with what looked like a nail which you would stick olives on when u had a martini. He said, “We don’t have toothpicks, we are trying to be sustainable.” I had a look of disbelief on my face as I looked at him and the nail… he was serious! Yet during the course of the dinner we had the option of going into the Sphere to experience a James Tyrell light show for 15minutes, which would have used up huge amounts of electricity… I truly did not understand this ‘sustainable’ angle and the nail for a toothpick. If they wanted to be sustainable why not have a bunch of students riding exercise bikes to generate some electricity for the light show? No toothpicks, what a joke!!!

On reflection and a long discussion with my partner, Faro is an over priced, over hyped restaurant with the cook (not chef) trying too hard to be clever instead of delivering local food and letting this produce shine along with the natural flavours home grown produce offers. A disappointing dinner from a restaurant which is surviving on one off customers as I imagine no one would be a...

From the beautiful landscape vineyards to the designed buildings laid out throughout the property, you are left in awe at every turn. Speechless and trying to take everything in at the same time trying to find the restaurant and this was just the beginning of our night. I do recommend you book as it is an exclusive and busy restaurant. It was slightly difficult finding the location of the restaurant. Once we parked our car in carpark 1, we actually got lost and walked around the property for about 20mins. Which I didn't mind as there was so many intriguing art displays and structures around which distracted you from the time....lol....I ended up having to call the reception and be guided to the entrance of the restaurant. FYI.... Faro restaurant is located below the cube like structure which has oddly placed glass panels and a gorgeously designed metal and glass bridge. Once you arrive at the entry glass doors you are greeted by the host. She already knew my name as i called a few minutes prior for the directions. She was lovely. She guided us into the lift and commenced to inform us of the venue. We went down a level and once the lift doors open we were astounded by the grand structural entry foyer. No words can adequately describe how you feel once this sensory experience commences. It has to be lived to understand its impact and humbling interpretation. Its "Mind blowing!". The hostess then lead us through to the hallway which enters into the restaurant, and once again we were left speechless. This visual and sensory installation was out of this world. And again "Mind Blowing!!" After a few pictures and videos we entered the famous Faro restaurant. With floor to ceiling glass panels which invite the exterior elements to its interior restaurant. It takes your breath away. Once we sat down our waitress went through the menu and ask if we had any dietary requirements. She was friendly, knowledgeable and great with the recommendations. Now to the food. The best way to describe it would be...sensational fine dining. Every dish was rich in flavour and texture, with delicate fragrant notes and incredibly visually appetizing. The servings are small portions, which i think is best as you are able to sample a range of their menu. And I cant forget to mention their cocktails, they are the best I've had in Hobart. Highly recommend the Black Margarita. Remember this place is fine dining and with that comes a hefty price tag. But i was more than happy to hand over my credit card for such an unforgettable experience. This place is where all your 5 senses will...

A Gastronomic Playground for the Adventurous

Located within MONA, FARO Bar + Restaurant is not just a dining destination—it’s a conceptual experience where food, art, and sensory exploration collide. Suspended over the River Derwent with floor-to-ceiling windows, the space itself is an architectural statement, offering a surreal atmosphere where diners are immersed in both contemporary art and bold, avant-garde cuisine. For those who seek diverse flavors, distinctive taste profiles, and Michelin-style creativity, FARO delivers an intriguing journey. However, those expecting generous portions and hearty plates may find the experience less fulfilling.

[ Seafood Congee ] – A Risotto Reinvention

The Seafood Congee at FARO is a reimagined take on the traditional Asian comfort dish, crafted with a risotto base. Unlike the classic porridge-like texture of congee, this dish maintains the al dente bite of risotto, offering a luxurious depth of flavor. Delicately poached seafood, including prawns and scallops, is layered over the creamy rice, enriched with a foam that enhances the dish’s umami notes. Topped with crisp fennel and edible blooms, the dish plays on temperature contrasts and textures, making each bite an experience in itself. The light yet deeply flavorful broth lingers on the palate, giving an almost ethereal touch to what might otherwise be considered a humble dish.

[ Poisson Blanc ] – A Study in Elegance

The Poisson Blanc (French for “white fish”) is a striking dish that embodies FARO’s commitment to artistic plating and bold flavor combinations. Presented in a deep, moody-toned bowl encircled by meticulously arranged sea snail shells, the dish is visually arresting. The fish is cooked to perfection, bathed in a green-hued broth infused with native Tasmanian greens and coastal herbs. Elements of citrus and umami create a delicate balance, while foraged succulents add an earthy complexity. The dish is as much about its visual storytelling as it is about taste, making it a quintessential FARO creation—unexpected, layered, and undeniably intriguing.

Having a luncheon at FARO is not about indulgence in quantity but rather exploration in creativity. The dishes are experimental, beautifully plated, and meant to be savored as part of a larger narrative rather than standalone meals.

For those who embrace innovative cuisine and avant-garde presentations, this is an experience not to be missed. But for those craving a traditional, hearty feast, FARO’s conceptual approach may leave them...