Isn’t it a fantastic feeling when you realize you have found a “new place”? That is what we experienced when we stepped into Halcyon for the first time. We went in for lunch and some coffee the first time and we were immediately hooked! It is one of the most inviting spots in Austin, Texas! The space is airy but cozy, and we made our way to the back, found a cushioned spot and settled into our nook for some lunch! The staff is warm and welcoming, but non-intrusive, a rare balance we find in our travels!
I went for hibiscus tea and Donnie tried their cold brewed iced coffee. He is not usually a coffee drinker, but he enjoyed this one, and my hibiscus tea was light a delicious, but my mind was racing with all the menu choices. We started with the cheese plate and we cannot recommend this appetizer enough. We know good cheese and this is GOOD cheese, Antonellis cheese to be exact, which is a local cheese shop on Duval that we hope to do a review of soon based on our experience at Halcyon! The platter features a variety of cheese and is served with fresh berries and honey. We literally did not leave a morsel! Onward to entrees we went without hesitation. In our experience, appetizers are a pretty sure fire way to gauge a restaurants overall quality, and we have been impressed so far.
Donnie went for the chicken wrap, which is served with salsa, black beans, roasted red peppers, and feta. It is usually served with Hummus as well, but alas, not for Donnie. He skipped the Hummus! It was served with choice of chips or a salad ($7). He ate every bite, and tried to take over mine. I selected the Spicy Chicken Panini with tomato and mozzarella and it was absolutely fabulous! The portions were perfectly, the sandwich was pressed just right, and it was a nice spicy treat in the middle of the afternoon ($7). We should have stopped at this point, but the tableside s’mores were calling to us, and in the name of research alone, we ordered them! Essentially, your waiter will bring you a tableside “fire” all the essentials for s’more making, Hershey bars, graham crackers, and marshmallows.
We went back that weekend for brunch, and again found the atmosphere welcoming, and the crowd diverse. We sat outside since it is a great spot for people watching (and dog watching) the patio is pup friendly which we love! Donnie had the sausage and cheddar quiche, and I had the French toast. They serve a coconut French toast that I will go back and try along with biscuits and chipotle gravy that is very popular.
Halcyon is a place that is well suited for most any occasion. Date spot, quick lunch, a spot to stop and do a little work (or play) on the computer, or a happy hour hang out! We look forward to going back for the jalapeno popper Panini soon! This is a place we will frequent and recommend to all without hesitation. Take some time and just relax at Halcyon, indulge yourself in chocolatey, caffeinated, or alcohol infused goodness…..or indulge in all three, but by all means, give this place a try!
