Laurent Bakery has unveiled a makeover of its original South Yarra flagship in Melbourne’s Como Centre first opened in 1993.

The French artisan bakery and cafe has expanded in the centre, adding an open and onsite kitchen to produce fresh-to-order baked goods.

The store has also increased capacity, extending from 133 square metres to 231 square metres to seat 110 people across a split-level seating area – making it the largest Laurent in Victoria and only one with an open kitchen.

Facing Victoria’s Covid-19 lockdowns, Laurent Bakery has pivoted to takeaway trade and last year partnered with Deliveroo.

Speaking on the renovation, founder and CEO, Laurent Boillon said, “We are extremely excited to share our flagship store’s fresh new look and expansion. I wanted to bring back the soul of the bakery, which of course is the open kitchen.

“A big space was essential to also create an incredible seating zone for our customers. The atmosphere has completely lifted and customer feedback from both regulars and passing guests, has been overwhelmingly positive.”

The Como Centre is a mixed-use complex of interconnected office, retail and hotel buildings, owned and operated by Newmark Capital.