Halikarnas began in the back streets of Carlton as a small food trailer run by Ali Atay. Operating out of a rundown car park, it quickly became a lively space filled with comforting food and genuine hospitality. Back then, our menu was simple, with just one item. Fresh fish bought from the market, cooked to order and served in hot bread with crisp lettuce, sumac onions and a squeeze of lemon.

Locals soon made it their go to for casual dining, drawn to the flavours of Istanbul tucked away in Melbourne’s inner north. Tablecloths appeared, salt and pepper shakers found their place on every table, and lunch service became busy in the best way.

After the strong support and love from our community, we moved into our current home in Brunswick East, where we continue to serve the same honest food and warm hospitality that started it all.