A taste of France is coming to the Sunshine Coast hinterland, with the opening of a new cafe serving authentic crepes, homemade cakes and gluten-free delights.
La Galette will officially open in Mapleton next month, offering what owner Patricia Coutant describes as “great French food in a cosy, friendly space”.
Ms Coutant, who has worked in hospitality for about 20 years, said she was drawn to Mapleton for its “beautiful, relaxed atmosphere and real sense of community”.
“I thought it would be the perfect place to share my passion for French food,” she said.
The opening marks her second venture under the La Galette name, following the success of her first cafe at Tilba Tilba, on the New South Wales south coast.
“I owned and ran La Galette in Tilba Tilba for six years – it was a wonderful and successful experience,” she said.
“After moving to Queensland, I wanted to bring that same spirit and passion here and create something special again in Mapleton.”
The cafe’s name comes from Brittany, a French region famous for its savoury crepes known as galettes.
“It’s one of my favourite French dishes and I wanted the name to reflect that authentic and healthy part of French cuisine,” Ms Coutant said.
“I’m an authentic French person who truly loves to cook. But just to set the record straight – I don’t have a French accent.”
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The menu will focus on gluten-free products made with buckwheat, with both savoury and sweet crepes inspired by traditional recipes. There will also be homemade cakes.
Ms Coutant said she had poured her heart into creating a space that feels welcoming and true to Mapleton’s character.
“I’ve put a lot of love into setting up the space to make it warm and welcoming, with a cosy French touch that fits perfectly with Mapleton’s charm,” she said.
Initially Ms Coutant plans to run the eatery herself before gradually expanding.
“I want to take the time to build it up slowly and make sure everything keeps that personal touch,” she said.
Beyond food, she hopes La Galette 2.0 will become part of the local fabric – a meeting place for both locals and visitors.
“I hope it will become a welcoming spot for people to gather, relax and enjoy good food together … a place where people can meet friends, try something new and feel at home,” she said.
La Galette will open at 5B/1 Post Office Road, Mapleton, on December 1.
