About Almost French
Almost French is a local patisserie bringing the flavours of France to Swan Street.
Known for our buttery croissants, tarts, handmade cakes and signature baguette sandwiches, everything we serve is made fresh each morning, using traditional techniques and real ingredients.
Whether you’re stopping by for your daily pastry or planning something special, we bake to delight.
Meet Alex, Our Founder
Founder Alex Charasse began baking in his mother’s kitchen at just six years old — long before he’d earn the titles of Maître Pâtissier and Maître Chocolatier in France.
His passion for pastry quickly became a lifelong pursuit, leading him to train at the prestigious Le Clos d’Or before joining the team at the three-Michelin-starred Le TroisGros.
From there, Alex’s journey took him through luxury hotels, cruise lines, and fine dining institutions across Europe and Australia.
After moving to Melbourne in 2009, he headed the pastry kitchen at Vue du Monde, perfected the art of high tea at The Windsor, and helped shape dessert menus at Grossi Florentino, the NGV Tea Room, and even the Australian Open.
In 2019, he opened Almost French Patisserie to bring that same level of care, craft, and creativity to the Richmond community.
Today, you’ll find him in the kitchen before sunrise, handcrafting pastries, experimenting with new creations, and making sure every croissant, tart, and baguette sandwich is baked to perfection.
