Black Star Pastry CBD

Wildly popular bakery Black Star was born in Sydney. But it’s gained a substantial Melbourne following since its picture-perfect cakes landed in St Kilda, Chadstone and the Melbourne CBD.

Housed in the city’s former Money Order Office, the CBD shopfront merges the bakery’s signature futuristic aesthetic with the history of the heritage-listed grey stone building. You walk through the doors to find minimalist white walls, a stainless-steel island and a halo light installation hanging above. Custom display fridges are stocked with picture-perfect cakes to enjoy in the alcove seating area.

Yes, the mega-famous strawberry-watermelon cake (among other favourites) are here. But there are also knockout croissant flavours, such as rose and pistachio dipped in strawberry chocolate and sprinkled with rose petals; chocolate and hazelnut finished with ganache and chocolate stars; and pina colada filled with creamy coconut and topped with sweet pineapple and a cocktail umbrella.

For those with less of a sweet tooth, there are savoury pastries: an umami brioche made with shiitake and champignon mushrooms in a miso bechamel sauce and a black cocoa pastry filled with matcha cream. And if you’re looking for a more substantial meal, a range of all-day bites such as ham and cheese croissants and Japanese chicken pie are also on hand.