Overview
Can't afford a trip to Paris this year? Haven't had any luck lining up at Lune? Well, luckily for you, world renowned French baker Gontran Cherrier is set to cut the ribbon on his first Australian boulangerie in Collingwood this weekend. And to mark the occasion, he's giving out free (we repeat: free) croissants from 10-11am on Saturday, June 18 after the Smith Street cafe opens its doors at 7am.
While these fresh-out-of-the-oven flaky beacons of heaven are the main attraction, the bakery and cafe will also stock a mouth-watering selection of freshly baked treats, including croissants, tarts, buns, rolls and fluffy white baguettes. A fourth generation baker, dreamboat and host of the popular French reality show La Meilleure Boulangerie de France (The Best Bakery in France), Cherrier currently owns boulangeries in Paris, Tokyo, Singapore and Seoul. His Melbourne shop has been designed by Eades & Bergman, the same team behind Kong BBQ and the Meatball & Wine Bar.
The menu will feature a mix of traditional and modern food made with ingredients imported directly from France. Think lemon tarts, almond chocolate croissants, rye and red miso bread, and squid ink rolls.
Our idea of a French fantasy #gontranmelb
A photo posted by Gontran Cherrier Australia (@gontrancherrierau) on
"I chose Melbourne for my newest international bakery because it is known for its excellence in food," said Cherrier back in February. "I think it also shares a lot of similarities with Paris such as the café culture and laneways. I was in Melbourne in 2010 and was struck by the culture and lifestyle. Ever since then I have wanted to open a store in this city. I'm so excited that it's finally happening."
Gontran Cherrier Artisan Boulangerie and Cafe will open at 7am this Saturday, June 18 at 140 Smith Street, Collingwood. For more info, visit gontrancherrier.com.au.