We Love Local: Lenny 3206
Posted by Chloe Hardie - 11 May 2020
Posted by Chloe Hardie - 11 May 2020
Through sheer determination, some businesses have managed to survive throughout the crisis albeit at a much smaller scale. With restrictions in place that sees cafes and restaurants shift to take away operations only, many businesses have embraced the changes, not for their own bread and butter, but to continue serving, feeding and caffeinating their communities and their beloved locals.
Our cafes and restaurants have long been the backbone of our neighbourhoods and without them, our suburbs just wouldn't have that bustling, village vibe that Melbourne's pockets are so renowned for. We caught up with Christina Higgins and Steve Svensen of Albert Park's, Lenny 3206, to find out more about how they've adapted to the huge changes in the industry, why they love their neighbourhood and what business might look like on the other side.
How long has Lenny 3206 been open in Albert Park, and what do you love most about the area?
Lenny opened in June 2018, so we are coming up to our 2nd birthday this year! Our friendly locals and community are at the heart of Lenny. We are so lucky to have so many lovely regulars and locals that make Lenny a part of their day to day lives, it’s like being part of a small (very delicious) village.
The COVID-19 restrictions have made local businesses change the way they do business. Was is difficult to transition to a takeaway only business?
It was hard to transition initially as it all happened so quickly, but we were able to adapt our business to make the most of the situation offering a full takeaway menu and take home meal options for our Lenny community.
Is there an element of the business you have changed that you would like to continue after the restrictions are lifted?
We have implemented take home meals which we will definitely continue with; everyone has loved how easy and delicious they are.
Our extensive selection has allowed people to enjoy meals by our chefs in the comfort of their own homes. A quick and convenient alternative to cooking, for those who are time poor but still love quality, fresh and delicious food. We are about to launch online ordering which will make this process even more simple!
What has been the most popular takeaway item?
Everyone loves a good smashed avo! Ours hasn’t changed, it’s just delivered in a take away box! Our poke bowl is also a long standing favourite, even in takeaway form.
From our take home menu the favourites have been our home-made chicken and leek pie and the bolognese sauce, of course!
What can locals do to show their support to Lenny 3206 during this difficult time?
The biggest thing for us is just to keep coming in for your daily coffees and brunching from home options. More than anything we still love seeing your smiling faces every day!
We are continuing to refine our menus (both in-house and take home meals) and are always coming up with new and delicious additions.
We are always trying to make the Lenny experience bigger and better so love seeing our local Lenny community embracing exciting, new flavours and dishes from our kitchen! More big things to come this year!
