Cicalata
323 Lygon Street
Carlton VIC 3053
03 9641 8899
Public Transport: Catch any tram with “Melbourne Uni” on its Front (from City or South of) and get off at Melbourne Uni, the last stop. Walk East and you’ll come across Lygon St. If you’re in the North, easiest to explain is: go into the city and catch a Melb Uni tram back up, from Swanston St. Otherwise, lucky ones can catch a handy Toorak No. 8 which comes from the North, from Coburg, and it’ll take you within a stones throw: get off corner Elgin and Lygon Sts.
I’ve been to this cafe three times now, each time I like it more. The first time it was by chance. I noticed Cicalata had taken the place of an average cafe.
It’s a smart cafe, new tables seats and a pull-out awning. Just inside the front window there’s four white bar stools. Most noticeable to me first up were the friendly waiter staff. Then the fair pricing. And considering this is in a great location, near Readings, the Nova, and the rest that Carlton has to offer, this cafe is a good find.
Today I couldn’t sit outside, but there’s seats available inside. Which reminds me of another plus: each time I’ve come to this cafe there was no problem getting a seat. The first two times I sat outside. This morning I take a bar stool. The door is open and a gentle breeze comes in. I’m served promptly, offered a menu and asked what I’d like to drink. Long black straight up, and later I order pancakes.
Outside two old guys sit at a table. One smokes a pipe and the other has a crisp glass of white in front of him. At least two people have books. Bottles of water are at tables.
When the long black comes it has a dark-golden crema. It’s hot and the flavour is a smooth blend not a strong one. Pancakes are not my normal order at a cafe. The pancakes I got today will be a cafe meal I remember. Two pancakes, one on top of the other, blackberries, maple syrup and a dollop of vanilla ice-creme. Not being a great food connoisseur, I won’t try to describe the flavours etc., but it was elegantly presented the whole lot sat together well and it wasn’t over the top. It tasted great.
Total price came to $11.30
I popped into this lovely serene environment in search of a quick meal before an 8pm appointment on a busy Thursday night in LYgon Street. I was very disappointed that I had not allowed myself more time to savour the most amazing antipasto plate I had ever seen. The home made arancini was the best ever, and all the other hot & cold delights on the plate, along with the lightly toasted bread were exquisite. All these gourmet pleasures plus a glass of wine for under $20. The service was friendly and prompt. It was a “died and gone to heaven” moment for me. I will be back. Whilst I hope the cafe does well, I’d hate it to take on the clamour of the other nearby eateries, where service is often at a minimum, prices at a maximum and food very average and samey. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
I frequent Cicalata’s, it’s one of my favourite places. The coffee is excellent every time. The food and friendly service is great. And best of all they cater for Celiacs (like me). Their chocolate brownie (GF) is to die for………..
Awesome cafe – my favourite in Carlton – don’t miss it – the owner is a super nice guy…. I wish him every success so we can continue enjoying the amazing environment of cicolata
Cicalata is my special place, a place to read, a place for coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner, a place to meet friends, a place to sit and reflect, cicalata is my place away from home. Greatest spot in Carlton!
Gluten free cafe with plenty of options as well as non GF food – everyone can eat here….great coffee, GF bread is the best in Melbourne…and we’ve tried it all ; breakfast and lunch terrific and a bit different meals on offer – food and the friendliest staff, esp the man who manages? owns it Have just had another terrific brunch there!