Now Open: Halcyon Days Aren’t a Thing of the Past at Albert Park’s Delightfully Decked-Out New Corner Cafe
Words by Emily Holgate · Updated on 08 May 2023 · Published on 19 Sep 2022
Chef Eugene Lavery has established himself in Melbourne’s cafe scene through his South Melbourne Market eatery Proper & Son. But now, he’s bringing his expertise to Albert Park, with the opening of new daytime diner Halcyon Days in the corner spot previously home to Fat Albert. He owns the cafe with Anthony Cozzella, who runs the front-of-house side of things.
“It’s right in the middle of a residential area [and] there are no shops around us, so it’s very much a community space and a standalone destination,” Lavery says.
The space is minimalist but still has plenty of character, with smooth archways and polished-concrete floors throughout. The best seats in the house are the snazzy stools (cute and curvy, in bright orange and olive green) or you can perch on the leafy corner outside.
Food-wise, it’s mostly homey and European-inspired. Expect carrot-cake toast slathered with carrot marmalade and cream cheese, or buckwheat hotcakes of both the sweet and savoury variety – the latter is stacked with smoked salmon, sour cream and caviar. If you’re on the go, the chicken-caesar sandwich has become a bit of a favourite.
Half of the menu is centred around sourdough loaves from Carrum Downs bakery Lievito, which you can order by the slice with add-ons including tinned sardines, poached eggs or caponata. As for drinks, you’ll find coffee by Melbourne favourite Industry Beans , alongside boozy-brunch-friendly cocktails and a pét-nat.
Halcyon Days
381 Montague Street, Albert Park
Hours:
Mon to Fri 6.30am–3.30pm
Sat & Sun 7.30am–3.30pm
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