Bonjour, Cheri! South Melbourne’s New Euro-Inspired Hotspot is Ready to Serve
Darling Group has done it again, sprinkling a little Parisian flair into Melbourne’s food scene with their latest venture, Cheri. Set to open its très chic doors on 9th October, Cheri brings a European-inspired, all-day eatery and patisserie right into the heart of South Melbourne, just a stone’s throw from the iconic South Melbourne Market. If you’ve been craving a taste of France without the jetlag, your passport to pastry paradise has arrived.
Sitting where Bibelot and Chez Dre once held court, Cheri combines the best of both worlds—think classic French pâtisserie meets Melbourne café cool. Whether you’re ducking in for a quick coffee or lingering for a long, lazy lunch, Cheri is your new go-to spot when you need to channel your inner Parisian (beret optional).
Step Inside: A Feast for the Eyes (and Stomach)
The moment you step into Cheri, you’re greeted with a vision of edible art. The pastry display is a sweet symphony of golden croissants, glossy éclairs, and flaky tarts—each one practically whispering “Bonjour” as you pass by. But don’t stop there. As you wander deeper into the space, it opens up into a luxe, all-day dining area featuring comfy booths, private nooks, and a 50-seat courtyard bathed in sunlight.
Whether you’re popping by for a quick croissant and coffee or planning to linger over a glass of wine and a meal with friends, Cheri has crafted an experience for all moods and appetites.
“This place really blends the elegance of a traditional European patisserie with Melbourne’s own unique style,” says Chris Seoud, Creative Director at Darling Group. “We bake everything fresh every day right here, and it’s all about quality and craft.”
Meet the Dream Team
Behind every perfect croissant is a team of dedicated bakers, and Cheri’s kitchen is no exception. Led by Culinary Director Ash Hicks, Executive Pastry Chef Michael Germanos, and Executive Chef Chris Mitchell, this trio is creating magic in the kitchen. And they start early—Cheri’s bakers roll in at 1am (yes, 1am) to prepare everything fresh, making sure every bite you take is as perfect as the last.
Cheri isn’t just a bakery; it’s the production hub for all of Darling Group’s pastries across their Melbourne venues. So, even if you’re brunching elsewhere in the city, there’s a good chance Cheri’s bakers have had a hand in your morning croissant.
The Menu: A Mélange of Classics with a Twist
Cheri’s menu is just as delightful as its setting. Breakfast starts at 8am, and let’s just say, it’s worth dragging yourself out of bed for. Fancy something a little different? Try the Spiced Polenta Porridge—it’s hearty, warming, and an absolute standout. Or if you’re after something more decadent, the Croissant Loaf French Toast is what brunch dreams are made of. It’s croissant meets French toast in the most delicious plot twist of your day.
As lunchtime rolls around, Cheri’s got you covered with dishes like the Chicken Cotoletta—crispy, juicy, and begging to be paired with a midday glass of vino. And if you’re a pizza fan (who isn’t?), their hand-stretched pizzas are made with a 72-hour fermented dough, giving you that perfectly crisp base that pizza lovers pine for.
Of course, Cheri wouldn’t be Cheri without a pastry cabinet that makes you feel like you’ve walked straight into a Parisian dream. Expect handmade viennoiseries, Parisian flan, and savoury options like focaccia sandwiches that are just as tempting as the sweets.
And what’s the perfect pairing for all this indulgence? Cheri’s signature Darling blend coffee, roasted to perfection and ready to fuel your day.
What’s in a Name?
The name Cheri is a playful nod to its French origins—after all, “chérie” means “darling” in French, a wink to its place within the Darling Group. But don’t be fooled by the name—while Cheri brings a dose of French flair, it’s unmistakably Melbourne in its style and vibe. You get the best of both worlds: the elegance of European pâtisserie with that laid-back, cool Melbourne edge.
The Cheri Experience
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee and croissant to go, or settling in for an afternoon of good food, wine, and conversation, Cheri’s atmosphere invites you to unwind and indulge. It’s the kind of place where every visit feels like a little escape—no plane ticket required.
If you’re in need of a new brunch destination, or simply looking to treat yourself (because, why not?), Cheri is waiting for you with open doors and an even more inviting pastry display.
The Details
Cheri, 285-287 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Doors officially open on 9th October, and let’s just say—you’ll want to be first in line. Because, darling, life’s too short to miss out on a croissant this good.
Offering a European-inspired all-day dining experience, this venue features freshly baked pastries, handcrafted breads, and a diverse menu that seamlessly blends traditional European flavours with Melbourne's contemporary cafe culture.
Offering a European-inspired all-day dining experience, this venue features freshly baked pastries, handcrafted breads, and a diverse menu that seamlessly blends traditional European flavours with Melbourne's contemporary cafe culture.
