A Stay to Stir the Soul: Cambridge House Geeveston with Chef Kazumasa Yazawa
Cambridge House, Geeveston may sit at the edge of the Huon Valley, Tasmania, but there’s a quiet rhythm here that mirrors Japan’s deep connection to nature. It’s a place where the seasons shape everything, from the food on the table to the air you breathe, and it’s in this peaceful, unhurried setting that Chef Kazumasa Yazawa has found a home for his culinary philosophy at Cambridge House.
Here, tucked behind an 1870’s Victorian frontage, Cambridge House waits. More sanctuary than hotel. More experience than stay.
Meet the Man: Chef Kaz
At the centre of Cambridge House is Chef Kazumasa Yazawa – a master of wood fire and restraint, whose journey through Michelin kitchens across Japan, Singapore, and Australia has led him to this quiet place.
Surrounded by the lush fields, clear rivers and the gateway to deep forests and waterfalls, Chef Kaz, as his guests affectionately call him, is reminded of the rural villages of Japan where he grew up – places where nature and food are intertwined. Could it be the green fields, the clear skies, or the flow of the river that echoes the simplicity and beauty of rural Japan? For Chef Kaz, it’s about respecting the land and its offerings, and that philosophy is woven into every dish he creates.
Here, amidst the peaceful surroundings, Shio Dining at Cambridge House becomes not just a meal, but a connection to the land, where every dish crafted by Chef Kaz tells the story of nature’s finest offerings. Chef Kaz’s journey began in Japan, where he honed his skills in the kitchen, training under renowned chefs Tetsuya Wakuda and Yoshihiro Narisawa. His work in Michelin-starred restaurants across Japan, Singapore, Australia, and Jakarta has shaped his culinary approach, blending traditional Japanese techniques with fresh, local ingredients. It’s this experience that he now brings to the table, where guests affectionately refer to him as Chef Kaz — a nod to the warmth and intimacy he fosters in his dining space.
Meet the Maker: The Heart Behind Shio Dining
At Shio Dining, guests are invited on a culinary journey that reflects the purity and richness of Tasmania’s seasonal bounty. Each dish is crafted with precision and care, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients – from the seafood of nearby waters to the apples, berries, and vegetables grown in the Huon Valley. “What we offer is a food experience shaped by Japanese techniques and philosophy, using Tasmanian produce to explore a new perspective on flavour and place. It’s a reflection of where we are, rather than a replication of tradition.”
Dining at Shio is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience that deepens your connection to the landscape. The restaurant follows the Omakase tradition – a Japanese word meaning “I’ll leave it up to you”- where guests entrust the chef to create a menu inspired by the very best ingredients available each season. No two dining experiences are ever quite the same, with each visit offering something fresh, intimate, and unique.
Each meal of Shio Dining at Cambridge House, consists of 14 to 16 courses, thoughtfully designed to highlight the finest produce Tasmania has to offer. From the sea, Chef Kaz sources premium abalone, scallops, and fish, while the land yields heirloom vegetables, and pork and beef from small, sustainable farms. His minimalist approach allows the natural flavours of each ingredient to shine, honouring both the environment and the traditions that shape his craft.
The experience at Shio Dining goes beyond the food. Every dish tells a story of the region, and Chef Kaz’s philosophy is to foster a deeper appreciation for Tasmania through his cooking. By creating an atmosphere where simplicity and purity lead the way, guests are encouraged to slow down, savour, and connect with what’s on their plate – and where it came from.
The setting itself is surprising, within an 1870s heritage house but this adds to the magic. The dining space embraces a minimalist Japanese aesthetic, with warm wooden textures, soft natural light, and an atmosphere of quiet reflection that complements the thoughtful food journey.
And the evening doesn’t end with the last course. Guests are treated to Jikata – a modern take on a traditional ending with music. This amazing final touch turns dining at Shio into a true celebration of both Tasmania’s fabulous produce and the artistry of Japanese culinary traditions.
Bookings for Shio Dining at Cambridge House are highly recommended, but never pressured — an invitation rather than an obligation.
More Than a Stay: What’s Included at Cambridge House
A night at Cambridge House is more than just a place to rest your head – it’s an invitation to slow down, savour, and settle into the rhythm of Geeveston.
Each of the five thoughtfully restored guest rooms each offering its own private bathroom suite, you can truly unwind in peace and privacy, with views of the garden or Kermandie River. Whether you’re visiting as a couple seeking a romantic retreat, a solo traveller on a reflective journey, or a group looking for a serene getaway, there’s a place for you here.
Your stay includes a generous breakfast each morning, offering the option of a nourishing Japanese-style breakfast or a hearty Huon Valley spread, complete with smoked salmon, sourdough, and seasonal produce.
Little touches elevate the experience. A complimentary mini bar is stocked with locally sourced treats and refreshments. Guests are welcomed with a thoughtful gift upon arrival, and have the option to pre-order whiskey or sake tasting sets curated by Chef Kaz – a nod to both Tasmania’s spirits and his own heritage.
Little touches elevate the experience. A complimentary mini bar is stocked with locally sourced treats and refreshments. Guests are welcomed with a thoughtful gift upon arrival, and have the option to pre-order whiskey or sake tasting sets curated by Chef Kaz – a nod to both Tasmania’s spirits and his own heritage.
Outside, nature waits. Take a quiet morning walk along the river and you might spot the resident platypus, or borrow a guidebook and head into the surrounding forests for a slow, soul-stirring walk through the landscape that first called Chef Kaz to stay.
To make your stay at Cambridge House truly unforgettable, book your getaway through Travellarks today.
And if you’re looking for a scenic, slow-paced road trip from Hobart to Geeveston, we’ve curated a beauty that brings you closer to the heart of Tasmania’s natural beauty. Explore the scenic drive here.
