Baker Bleu, South Yarra

MELBOURNE | Most fans of quality baked goods in Melbourne will be well aware of Baker Bleu. Founded in 2016 by Mike and Mia Russell, with a mission to create the most ethical, deeply flavoured, high quality sourdough in Melbourne, Baker Bleu has since grown to multiple locations across Melbourne and Sydney. They also supply some of the top restaurants in both cities. I recently visited the newest location, in South Yarra, for What’s On Melbourne.

Located directly opposite the Royal Botanical Gardens, it’s a grab-and-go type offering. Perfect for those with a busy schedule, or wanting to relax in the park. The famed 48-hour long-ferment, dark-crusted sourdough loves are baked on site each day. There’s also an assortment pastries, lunch options, and seasonal specials. Classics like country loaves, chewy bagels, babka, and croissants, plus things like Portuguese egg tarts, sourdough pizza, rolls, and sandwiches.

The multi seed bagel, topped with poppy, caraway, linseeds, sesame seeds, and Tasmanian sea salt, is one of my favourite bagels in Melbourne. They freeze really well so be sure to grab a few. Also be sure to try the salted caramel kougin amann – a highlight of the viennoiserie selection. For lunch, it’s hard to go past the simple French ficelle roll filled with smoked leg ham, Gruyere, and Dijon mustard. The salad sandwich is also a winner. Seasonal creations include things like a mushroom & gochujang toastie with confit garlic and aged cheddar.

Just like the other locations, there’s a focus on working closely with local producers, sustainability, and listening to the local community – there’s things on the menu here that you won’t find at other locations. In this case, a soft serve creation that changes each month – think backyard honey, olive oil, and caramelised croissant crumbs; or caramelised apples, caramel glaze and spiced crumble.

To drink, it’s filter and espresso coffee made with Market Lane beans (blends and rotating single origins), along with things like matcha, orange hot chocolate, and coconut iced latte. There’s also a pantry section filled with Baker Bleu’s own product, plus other local artisan goods, for home.