A French patisserie that has established a loyal following in the hinterland has expanded to the coast.
Founded in Landsborough, 22 Cribb St French Patisserie has launched a second cafe at Bulcock Street, Caloundra.
Co-owner Robyn McIntyre said the business’ expansion was driven by strong customer demand and the long-held ambitions of fellow owner and head pastry chef Dhanushka Manjula.
“I made the initial investment to start 22 Cribb St French Patisserie in Landsborough. I had known chef Dhanushka for a long time and always admired his talent, so I asked him to develop a concept and he built it from A to Z,” she said.
“We wanted to create a quiet space where people could sit, relax and enjoy traditional French patisserie without additives, artificial colours or cheap ingredients, and with minimal plastic use to respect our beautiful hinterland.
“The concept, kitchen design, interior, exterior and menu are all his work. I simply wanted to be part of this beautiful journey but chef Dhanushka always had the vision to continue and expand the brand.
“The Caloundra location is his personal investment and something he has dreamed of since day one.”
She said Caloundra had long been “a dream location” for the chef and a logical next step, with customers regularly requesting a coastal outlet.
A soft opening has already taken place but the business is operating with a limited menu while awaiting approval for outdoor seating.
“We’re not in a rush – good things take time,” she said.
“Once the seating is approved, we’ll expand the menu, introduce freshly baked breads daily and potentially add handmade artisan chocolates.”
While expansion has brought challenges, Ms McIntyre said Mr Manjula’s experience had been vital.
“Our chef has extensive international experience across nine countries, including pre-opening restaurants, resorts, hotels and cruise ships. His background has helped us overcome every challenge so far,” she said.
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The Caloundra shop will retain the essence of Landsborough – which has closed temporarily for upgrades – but eventually evolve its own offering.
“The foundation will be similar but Caloundra will gradually introduce an improved and expanded menu, with more breads and specialty items unique to that location,” she said.
The business is also considering further expansion.
“We plan to keep Landsborough, improve the facilities there, and are considering an additional location in Maleny due to strong customer demand,” Ms McIntyre said.
“We’re also looking at establishing a central production kitchen in the hinterland to maintain strict quality control and distribute fresh products to each outlet every morning.”
Hiring will ramp up once council approvals and menu expansions are complete.
“We expect to hire more staff once outdoor seating is approved and once we launch our brunch menu,” she said.
“For now we are taking things slowly – observing the most suitable opening hours, understanding customer flow and stabilising operations before training new people. We prefer to build a strong team gradually.”
The patisserie’s website says it is a boutique cafe inspired by the timeless flavours and romance of Paris.
“Our patisserie celebrates the art of French baking through handcrafted pastries, desserts and breads made with care and authenticity,” it says.
“Combining classic French techniques with a welcoming, family-style atmosphere, 22 Cribb St brings a taste of Parisian charm to the heart of our community.”
The new 22 Cribb St cafe is at 90 Bulcock Street, Caloundra.
