Introducing Arôme Bakery: a blend of French techniques and Eastern promise

Arôme Bakery will open their first permanent site on November 23rd in The Yards, Covent Garden. Following a sellout pop up on Frith Street earlier this year, Arôme is delighted to be opening its first bricks and mortar site. Despite the current climate, Arôme will bravely forge ahead with its new opening determined to offer some much-needed good news to the London hospitality scene.

Arôme is the creation of French chef Alix André and Singaporean wife Christabel along with restauranteurs, Ellen Chew, and partner Tiffany of the Chew on This Group. The heart and soul of Arôme is steeped in artisan French Baking techniques influenced by the eclectic flavours and ingredients of Asia. Originally from Lyon – France’s capital of gastronomy, Alix honed his skills under names like Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester, Alan Yau at Yauatcha and later with Rainer Becker at Roka as well as several positions with the MARC restaurant group. Alex Comments: “My travels with Christabel, Ellen and Tiffany in Asia and our countless hours dining together have opened my horizons to far reaching ingredients, which wouldn’t normally be found in French baked products, which has allowed me to create a menu that excites the palate with unexpected combinations”

Mindfully balancing culinary wonders of East and West, Arôme will pride itself on offering exemplary traditional French patisseries such as croissants, pain au chocolat and tartes fine aux pommes,  whilst punctuating its offering with exciting and unconventional products such as Miso and Bacon Escargot, Gula Melaka Coconut Bun,  Laksa Tomato Coriander Roll and the signature, Arôme Honey Butter Toast; a thick slice of caramelised Shokupan bread that’s crispy to the bite but soft and fluffy on the inside. Everything is baked fresh onsite daily with premium ingredients that are carefully sourced from small batch producers. The menu will also feature rotating items inspired by seasonal ingredients. Coffee will be supplied courtesy of award winning roastery, Allpress and will sit alongside a full range of premium teas and juices.

Arôme will be a 25-seater site, inspired by a classic Asian room of simplicity and functionality. Window lined glass panels means customers walking past will be able to see Alix and his team at work, and for those who step inside they will be able to enjoy the smells and fresh creations daily. Beached wood and white walls complete with a mixture of refectory and individual seating will create a spacious and minimalist space allowing the focus to be on the energy, colour and craft expending from the kitchen beyond. Al fresco seating will also be available all year round and for those wanting to enjoy a taste of Arôme at home a full delivery and click and collect service will be available.

Arôme is a first of its kind. A place to enjoy a taste of traditional French baking that we all know and love as well as an opportunity to sample flavour and baking combinations never seen before. An exciting creation and a true symbol of friendship and happiness – Arôme will be a welcome experience for all to enjoy during these challenging times and beyond.