Sydney harbours a plethora of amazing experiences.
Some are well-known, others are truly hidden away and known only by the initiated, and there are those in plain sight yet missed by most. Our new series ‘Secret Sydney’ will reveal some of my favourite Sydney spots from cafes to restaurants, bars, parks and cultural experiences.
La Renaissance Pâtisserie falls into the last category. It’s certainly in plain sight, in the heart of The Rocks, one of Sydney’s busiest tourists spot and perhaps that’s why it is missed by many.
But, if you want an authentic French pâtisserie experience, this is the spot! It brings a little piece of France to the heart of Sydney.
Established in 1974 by Pierre and Sally Charkos, the pâtisserie moved to its current location on Bastille Day in 1992. Its current building was built in 1842 by Michael Gannon, an ex-highway robber from Ireland, who ran a business offering carpentry, real estate, auctioneer and undertaking services.
Pierre was trained as a chef and pâtissier in Paris. Sadly he passed away in 2005, but his legacy is carried on by co-owner and head pastry chef Jean-Michel Raynaud.
Jean-Michel and the pâtisserie were recently honoured in France by being inducted into Relais Desserts, the most prestigious pâtisserie association in the world, the first and only Australian inductee.
Go to dishes at La Renaissance are their legendary ham and cheese croissant, and the pork and fennel sausage rolls. On a sunny morning or afternoon treat yourself to a table in their darling courtyard and pretend you are on a French getaway.
You must follow up your meal with a dessert of course. It’s simply impossible to recommend any single one, because they are all wonderful. Your only solution is to eat your way through their delicious and colourful offerings over time. It will be a worthwhile sweet journey to dessert heaven.
La Renaissance also caters parties and makes the most beautiful cakes. Their croquembouche is the best you will get in Sydney. It’s suitable for any special occasion from birthdays to a … Saturday afternoon with friends, and will win you the adoration you deserve for bringing such a fabulous treat.
La Renaissance Pâtisserie
47 Argyle Street The Rocks
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia
Open: 8am to 6pm, 7 days (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday)
Phone: + 61 (0)2 9241 4878
Fax: + 61 (0)2 9043 6900
Email: orders@larenaissance.com.au
The Vue Post 