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Melbourne's Almost French Patisserie Crowned Australia's Best Baker at National Small Business Awards
- Deb Carr
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Melbourne's love affair with French pastries has earned national recognition, with Almost French Patisserie taking out the Champion Baker title at the 2026 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards.
Presented at a gala ceremony at Sydney's Sofitel Wentworth, the prestigious award recognises excellence in Australia's small business sector, with winners assessed across business performance, innovation, customer service, sustainability, financial management and community contribution.
Founded by French Maître Pâtissier and Maître Chocolatier Alex Charasse, Almost French Patisserie has built a reputation for bringing authentic French baking traditions to Melbourne. The business now operates its original Richmond pâtisserie alongside Almost French Epicure in Melbourne's CBD, offering artisan breads, handcrafted pastries, desserts, café dining and gourmet French pantry products.
For Sydney travellers planning a weekend in Melbourne, both venues are well worth adding to the itinerary. Whether you're searching for a perfectly flaky croissant, classic éclair or a leisurely French café experience, Almost French has become one of the city's standout culinary destinations.
The Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards are among the country's most respected business awards, recognising outstanding small businesses across retail, manufacturing and service industries. More than 587 businesses from metropolitan, regional and rural Australia were honoured in this year's awards program.
Judges recognised Almost French for its commitment to innovation, leadership, business growth, customer experience and operational excellence, reflecting years of dedication to traditional French craftsmanship while continuing to evolve the business.
Planning a Melbourne Foodie Escape?
Richmond and Melbourne's CBD are both easy bases for exploring the city's renowned café and dining scene.
The expansion of the brand has seen the introduction of Almost French Epicure in Melbourne's CBD, combining café dining with premium French pantry products, charcuterie and immersive French-inspired hospitality. The business has also launched Melbourne's first French Club, bringing together food, culture and community through unique events and experiences.
While the national title marks a significant achievement, the business continues to focus on delivering authentic French flavours using premium ingredients and traditional techniques that celebrate France's rich culinary heritage.
For visitors exploring Melbourne's renowned food scene, Almost French offers a taste of France without leaving Australia, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone who appreciates exceptional pastries, artisan baking and genuine French hospitality.
