Sleepy St Helens on the north-east coast of Tassie is as pretty as a picture. An expansive bay that takes in a few smaller hamlets, is serviced by a town that closed up by 6pm, and where eating the seafood is a must. The place is more happening during the day, and The Lifebouy Cafe & Quail Street Emporium feels like central city. It’s hard to know where the cafe starts and finishes; the tables are so well disguised poised amongst the collectables, antiques, and nautical stuff for salty sea dogs. On a rainy day it’s the place to be as travellers empty out of campervans and set up around tables to play cards. I go for a single scone, and have a choice of plain or date, and there is cheese and chives for savoury tastes. I try the plain, which is light and fluffy, and even though it’s microwaved until steaming, it’s still better than average. The condiments don’t fare too well, as the raspberry jam is very average and the superlight cream dissolves before it gets anywhere near the scone. Nonetheless, the place is an interesting diversion, especially if you are into selective preloved stuff. Closed Sundays.

Scones: 

Jam: 

Cream: 

Tea: Three choices of loose-leaf tea, and herbal tea bags served in a small tea pot.

Price: $$

Overall: Quirky eatery where you can admire collectables while you eat.

Location: 29 Quail St, St Helens TAS 7216 Ph: 0439 761 371

Reviewed in December, 2016