Melbourne’s culinary scene is set for an irresistible new chapter with the launch of Almost French Epicure, the highly anticipated café-restaurant created by acclaimed Maître Pâtissier and Maître Chocolatier, Alex Charasse — the founder and head chef behind one of Australia’s most iconic French patisseries, Almost French Patisserie in Richmond.

Long admired for bringing the flavours of France to Swan Street, Charasse has now expanded his culinary vision, establishing a new home where French culture, craftsmanship and indulgence converge. Almost French Epicure marks his official entry into the exclusive epicurean dining market, blending the warmth of a neighbourhood café with the sophistication of a Parisian dining room.

Located at 27 Little Collins Street, inside the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel, this licensed café and restaurant is primed to become one of Melbourne’s most coveted destinations for lovers of French food, wine and patisserie excellence.

A celebration of French culture, craft and cuisine

Almost French Epicure is a tribute to the beauty of French savoir-faire, where impeccable technique meets sensory pleasure. On a daily basis, the venue showcases a stunning curated selection of sweet and savoury pastries, freshly baked baguettes, charcuterie, cheeses, and a menu of French favourites crafted with the precision and passion that define Charasse’s work.

Each pastry, loaf, tart and cake is handmade daily at the Almost French Richmond bakery before arriving in the city still warm from the oven — carrying the unmistakable craftsmanship that has earned the brand a loyal cult following.

From buttery croissants to vibrant fruit tarts, from decadent gateaux to delicately layered mille-feuille, every item reflects the discipline of traditional French technique and the artistic flair cultivated in Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe.

“Almost French Epicure is more than a café, it is a place to savour life’s simple pleasures,” Charasse said.
“It reflects everything I love about French gastronomy: beauty, generosity, craftsmanship and a deep respect for ingredients. I want guests to feel transported, even just for a moment.”

A venue designed to become Melbourne’s new ritual

The venue has been designed as a destination for every part of the day — from morning pastries and coffee, to long lunches, to elegant late-afternoon wine, cheese and charcuterie.

Some of Charasse’s creations include millefeuille, croissants, lemon tart, Portuguese tart, quiches, baguette sandwiches, and more. The venue also provides high tea within the Sheraton Melbourne Hotel.

Its refined interiors, artisan displays and sensory atmosphere offer a calm, stylish escape in one of the city’s liveliest precincts.

Perfect for leisurely meals, business catch-ups, weekend indulgence or a quick bite between meetings, Almost French Epicure captures the charm of Parisian café culture and brings it to the heart of Melbourne.

A founder shaped by Michelin-starred mastery

Founder Alex Charasse has spent more than two decades immersed in the world of haute pâtisserie and fine dining.

He began baking in his mother’s kitchen at the age of six before earning the prestigious titles of Maître Pâtissier and Maître Chocolatier in France. His career spans the renowned kitchens of Le Clos d’Or and the three-Michelin-starred Le TroisGros, followed by roles across luxury hotels, cruise lines and fine-dining institutions throughout Europe and Australia.

After relocating to Melbourne in 2009, Charasse shaped pastry programs at Vue de Monde, The Windsor, Grossi Florentino, the NGV Tea Room, and even the Australian Open, before launching Almost French Patisserie in 2019.

“Almost French Epicure is the natural extension of our journey,” he said.
“It allows us to share the full breadth of French culinary culture, from pastries to charcuterie to wine, in a space that feels both intimate and elevated.”

A new culinary landmark for Melbourne

Open seven days a week from 7:30am to 4:00pm, Almost French Epicure is set to become a cornerstone of Melbourne’s inner-city dining landscape — a place where craftsmanship, comfort and culture meet.

With its highly anticipated opening, Melbourne can now experience the artistry of Almost French on a larger canvas, delivered with the same heart, heritage and passion that made the original patisserie an institution.

Location

Almost French Epicure
27 Little Collins Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000

📞 (03) 9429 2080
🕒 Open 7 days: 7:30am – 4:00pm
🌐 www.almostfrenchepicure.com.au