The EOI to establish a year-round offering within the chalet ran from November 19 to February 28.

While interested parties did inspect the historic building, enquiries did not progress to a formal EOI being lodged.

A Parks Victoria spokesman said the EOI would be repeated.

"We understand that 2020-21 has been an exceptionally difficult year for many in the hospitality industry - we plan to re-visit the Mount Buffalo Chalet Cafe Expression of Interest next year," he said.

"Our priority for the next twelve months is to focus on other activation projects in the Mount Buffalo area, including new accommodation funded with a $1.5 million investment from the Victorian government's building works package."

A coffee van at the Gorge Visitor Area will continue to provide coffee and light refreshments to the record number of day visitors and campers at the park.

Alpine Shire mayor John Forsyth said securing an operator this year would have been ideal but hesitation was understandable given the COVID-19 pandemic.

"My hopes with it are we will have someone put in an EOI in order to run a cafe in the chalet," he said.

"At the moment, for those people trying to work out a business proposition ... I think there is some wariness simply because of COVID and lockdowns.

"It will be a great opportunity."

A minimum activation footprint was suggested in the EOI which included three front rooms - the 'buffalo bar' and two adjoining lounges - but applicants were able to suggest wider activation.

Cr Forsyth said the lack of applications to the EOI did not shake his confidence in the process.

"Even with our council tenders, we might have say 20 people download the tender but have only five returned - I think this is part of the process," he said.

"In the meantime, the van is still operating and they're doing a fantastic job."

IN OTHER NEWS:

The chalet will receive $3 million in further conservation works to its facade, as part of a $61.7 million Commonwealth investment in environment, jobs and tourism announced in October.

These works, to ensure the chalet is compliant with Victorian heritage building regulations, are expected to be complete in late 2022.

The Victorian government has allocated $1.5 million to "eco-pod" roofed accommodation with two sites selected in partnership with the Taungurung Land and Waters Aboriginal Council for activation, at Cresta Valley and behind the chalet.

Parks Victoria is expected to have the accommodation in place and available for people to book in 2022.