Chez Dré Patisserie Boulangerie

In an inconspicuous-looking alley off the South Melbourne market is Chez Dré, a cafe and bakery created by pastry chef Andréa (Dré) Reiss and business partner, Steve Sam.

While it is a large converted warehouse, the space (designed by Breathe Architecture) feels warm and inviting rather than industrial. A blue curved wall borders the kitchen and the concrete floor has been sprayed with a bright-red pattern.

Chez Dré offers French-inspired all-day breakfasts using the highest quality local produce and organic ingredients. Highlights include avo with whipped goat’s cheese; and the prosciutto and onion tart.

The bakery sells nine different artisan breads, all baked in-house using traditional methods that involve organic flours and overnight fermentation. A selection of homestyle cakes and cookies is also available.

For sweet-tooths looking for something more decadent, head next door to sister cafe Bibelot, which features petit gâteaux and macarons.