French Maître Pâtissier and Maître Chocolatier Alex Charasse has been named among Australia’s best after his patisserie, Almost French Patisserie, claimed the top spot in the Baker category at the 2026 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards.

Located in Melbourne, Almost French Patisserie was recognised as one of Australia’s leading bakery businesses after impressing an independent panel of judges across business performance, innovation, customer service, sustainability, financial performance and community contribution.

Alex said the award represented years of dedication to bringing authentic French baking to Australia.

“When I left France, my dream was never simply to open a bakery,” he said.

“My dream was to share authentic French craftsmanship, tradition and passion with Australians while creating an experience that transports people to France every time they walk through our doors.

“To receive national recognition for that journey is incredibly humbling.”

Alex, who trained in France, has spent decades refining his craft in some of Europe’s most respected kitchens before bringing his expertise to Australia. In its time, Almost French Patisserie has become one of Melbourne’s best-known French culinary brands.

Alex said they had never wanted to be “just another cafe”.

“We wanted to create a little piece of France where people could experience genuine French hospitality, traditional recipes and exceptional quality,” he said.

The Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards, held in Sydney in late June, celebrate excellence across retail, manufacturing and service industries. According to the awards organisers Almost French Patisserie distinguished itself through its commitment to innovation, leadership, business growth, customer experience and operational excellence.

“This award belongs to our entire team,” Alex said.

“They show up every day with incredible passion, precision and pride. French pastry is an art form. Every croissant, every eclair, and every dessert reflects years of training and attention to detail.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, but we’re even more excited about what’s next. Small businesses take enormous risks every day. They create jobs, build communities and contribute enormously to Australia’s economy.

“To be recognised among the country’s very best is something we’ll never take for granted.”