They are part of Melbourne’s burgeoning dessert scene and some of the most popular purveyors of decadence today. From humble beginnings LuxBite opened its doors in South Yarra and now after two years have renovated to make way for more people is search of their ‘sweetest’ talents.

We met Bernard and Yen of LuxBite to hear their story and chat about the desserts that make them (and us) smile, the renovations, those oh so delicious macarons and our own dreams of opening Melbourne’s first dessert bar.

Agenda: LuxBite is considered to have some of the best macarons in town. What makes them so good?

LuxBite: We’ve put a lot of thought into the authenticity of our flavours. We combine the freshest ingredients with a unique mix of quirky Asian flavours. The inspiration we take from our travels to Europe and Japan has a great impact on flavours, colours and ingredients. It’s one of the best ranges in Melbourne and sweet lovers are spoiled for choice.

Agenda: Where did you and Bernard learn the art of the sweet?

LuxBite: Originally from Malaysia, we moved to Australia to refine our craft and have been lucky enough to work with Michael Moore (Summit Restaurant), Peter Gilmore (Quay) and Katrina Kanetani (Pier) in Sydney before moving to Melbourne. Here we’ve worked with Catherine Adams (Rockpool), Robert Marchetti (Giuseppe Arnaldo and Sons) and Daniel Southern (Comme Kitchen). These experiences helped us gain the knowledge and creativity we have now.

Agenda: Which desserts make you smile and why?

LuxBite: The Meringue Monster never fails. It’s got a vibrant exterior  that captures the excitement of flavours hidden inside. It comes in rich flavours of green tea, pistachio, watermelon, and strawberry covered in meringue; flawless and a real surprise to the taste buds. It’s one of our best sellers and is here to stay.

Agenda: LuxBite just undertook some renovations. What was the thinking behind that?

LuxBite: It’s been two years so it was time for a new look. We’ve revamped the menu, introduced new sweet masterpieces and refurbished the store. There’s now a big communal table – a very welcoming addition to the space. We wanted to encourage people to use us as a dessert bar. It’s now more efficient for us and refreshing for all of our regulars. Feedback has been wonderful.

Agenda: Where else can I get a LuxBite sweet fix?

LuxBite: We do supply our macarons to a few cafes in the CBD however the full range can only be found at LuxBite. We’d like to maintain our exclusivity.

Agenda: If I’m not eating dessert at LuxBite, what am I eating?

LuxBite: Come and indulge on our new brunch menu. It’s a menu inspired by our favourite flavours from the West and Asia. The menu includes the Pandan Chicken Burger with tamarind chilli mayo and Asian slaw and a Caramelized Eschallot Tart with truffled salad of shitake, shimeji, enoki and oyster mushrooms.

Agenda: Any plans for LuxBite no. 2?

LuxBite:  No plans as yet though we are most certainly not dismissing the idea. We would love to expand our business here locally and maybe even look into opening stores OS. However, we still consider it early days and we’re fortunate enough to have a loyal customer base here and we’d love to continue to be their chosen dessert café.

Go and visit Bernard and Yen at 38 Toorak Road, South Yarra. These great purveyors of the sweeter things in life would love to see you.

Note: LuxBite is currently offering all AgendaCity members a 2-for-1 Brunch offer and additionally, is one of our featured providers in the upcoming uTaste box.