Come for the interiors, stay for the food, has long been the mantra at Cabarita’s boutique establishment Halcyon House. The coastal retreat’s restaurant Paper Daisy has won fans around the nation (if not the world) thanks to the talents of head chef Ben Devlin.

But, Devlin has just announced that he won’t be leading the team at the Anna Spiro-styled restaurant for much longer. The chef has decided to turn his attention to a venture of his own, opening Pipit Restaurant (formerly known as Stoke) in early 2019 down the road in Pottsville. Halcyon House have already commented that they will be sad to see Devlin go.

“Ben has been with us since Halcyon House opened in 2015 and under his watch Paper Daisy has won multiple awards. Of course we are sad to see him go but we wish him every success with his new restaurant in Pottsville and we’re delighted that he is only a suburb away,” commented Halcyon House GM Mauro de Riso. “What’s more, it will be a fantastic addition to the region and it’s bourgeoning culinary reputation. In terms of a Paper Daisy Chef announcement, stay tuned for some exciting news!”

As for Devlin’s new home, the Northern Rivers surf town is considered to be like the Byron of yesteryear thanks to its decent surf, warm weather and rather sleepy community. But now Pottsville will also be able to boast of a restaurant well worthy a road trip, with an award-winning chef at its helm.

Little is known of Devlin’s new venture, though its been promised that it will be a 30-seater that will serve brunch through dinner. But Instagram tells us its likely that Devlin will continue to celebrate local flora and fauna (like black sapote fruit) on his new menu, where local suppliers like Boon Luck Farm will be championed.

There must be something in the water in Byron Shire right now; as Devlin is not the only Northern Rivers chef on the move. delicious. recently reported that The Byron at Byron executive chef Matt Kemp has decided to depart the hotel in favour of the more casual Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club.