By pure chance I discovered that there is a new kid on the block (notice hipster 90s reference) whilst out walking one lunch last week.

The Harold Holt Espresso Bar has been open for 6 weeks now, taking over from the old Boat Restaurant.

First test was the purchase a coffee … there is some stiff competition in the area and I was hopeful it would work out well … mostly as it is about a half block walk from work.

I was advised by Todd, the barista, that the blend was from Zest and was a mixed blend with a slightly acidic edge, rather than single origin. They use A2 milk which was good news for me also.

Toby was right, the coffee was on the bitter side in taste with a definite acidic edge.

So, decent coffee = tick

Next trip will be for breakfast, which I take very very seriously.  I will report back.

You can read about the cafe on their Facebook Page www.facebook.com/haroldholtespressolounge

One item of note: It looks like the new owners have taken over the old Facebook page and also Twitter account, there are reviews from before the Harold Holt had a soft launch in June, there are tweets under the Tweitter account BoatRestaurant that are the same as are posted on the Harold Holt Facebook page … and the old Boat Website is still up and running. Does make me wonder whether there are truly new owners or this is a re-brand … will investigate.

Update: 21/08/13

Food:

First food tasting this morning … the chef very kindly made me a traditional toastie off menu and to my specs … it is everything you would want, buttery bread, good quality ham and cheese (but not too overpowering). This will see me through to lunch, although a gym session might be needed at some point, this is not a low fat option!

Owners:
I have been assured that the owners are new and there is no re-branding occurring and they are the same owners of the popular Kew Cafe Percy’s Aeroplane, read the reviews here.