Parisian Patisserie Boulangerie: A Little Slice of Montmartre in North Essendon

Step through the doors of Parisian Patisserie Boulangerie and you might forget you’re in Melbourne’s north—one bite of a crisp éclair or almond croissant and suddenly you’re on a quiet street in Montmartre. This charming boulangerie is the latest creation from Neil McKenzie, a seasoned chef with stints at North Melbourne’s French Quarter and Essendon’s St Germain under his belt. Alongside his wife, Neil brings the flavours and finesse of Paris home to North Essendon, drawing queues of pastry lovers on weekends.

Seventeen Years, One Perfect Brioche

Neil’s passion is backed by 17 years of experience, plus formal training at Le Cordon Bleu. But it’s his six-year quest for the perfect brioche that really speaks to his dedication. The result? Rich, buttery perfection—just one of the highlights in a cabinet filled with croissants, tarte aux citron, éclairs, and sugar-dusted cakes. Every pastry is made fresh daily, using Warrnambool butter and traditional French methods honed over years in the kitchen—and on the streets of Paris.

A Taste of Paris, No Passport Required

Inside, the bakery is bright and minimal, with gentle Parisian flourishes that let the pastries do the talking. Locals come for their morning croissant and coffee—and stay for the atmosphere that feels effortlessly European. Parisian Patisserie Boulangerie isn’t just a bakery—it’s a love letter to the boulangeries of France, written in butter, flour and sugar.