Melbourne’s south-east got a whole lot sweeter earlier this year, with the long-anticipated arrival of Food Voyageur’s first physical store on Carlisle Street in Balaclava.
Known to cake lovers across the city for its drool-worthy celebration cakes and cupcakes, the cult favourite has finally made the leap from online sensation to bricks-and-mortar destination.
Chef and owner Rachithri ‘Rachi’ Fernandopulle opened the IRL store following surging demand for her creative bakes. The space is inviting without being overdone – pink feature walls, a black-and-white chequered floor, plush velvet seating for four, and glass chandeliers all set the mood for a midweek cupcake indulgence or a celebratory sugar fix with friends.
Inside the cabinet? At least ten flavours of cupcakes daily, from nostalgic classics to bold seasonal numbers like Dubai Chocolate (knafeh and pistachio filling, topped with pistachio buttercream and chocolate ganache), Lemon Meringue, and Tiramisu.
“I have been told that [our Red Velvet] is the best in Melbourne,” says Rachi. “We use real cream cheese and I tried and tested many recipes to get our final version.”
Vintage-style cakes remain a crowd favourite, with cheeky personalised messages adding a fun, modern twist.
“Our Mini Vintage Cake is just $59 and serves 4–6 people,” says Rachi. “Customers enjoy adding their own messages like ‘Dirty Thirty’ and ‘B’Day Bitch.’”
Food Voyageur still delivers Melbourne-wide, but for locals or those passing through, this is one cake shop well worth the detour.
Food Voyageur, is at 215 Carlisle Street, Balaclava – website foodvoyageur.com
