Foodie Review: Château Gâteaux
Imagine walking into a South African Pastry store and being transported through Europe. Is this even possible?
Photo Courtesy of Château Gâteaux Website
I can still remember my first experience as I entered the Château Gâteaux Patisserie in Illovo – by accident. My eyes lingered, I had to stop talking, stop walking and just stare at the gorgeous looking desserts in front of me. Oh the smell, the sight; my mouth salivated! I can still recall wanting to buy EVERYTHING – this is not an exaggeration, I honestly want to buy everything every single time I enter.
Photo Courtesy of Château Gâteaux Facebook Page
Thursday the 13th August 2015 was no different. This was the opening day of the 8th Château Gâteaux Patisserie; in Riverside Shopping Centre, Bryanston. Around midday the doors opened and if you were a stranger to the centre and were unaware to the fact that they had just opened, you would have believed that they had always been there. There were absolutely no signs of ‘last minute’ displays to be put up or arranging of furniture. When the doors opened, so did class, quality and the aroma of goodies that will make your wallet cry (if it had feelings). Customers were already lining up to make their purchases and an ambience of excellence was present. Cakes, Cheesecakes, every type of Baked Dessert screamed at you to ‘buy me.’ My experience at this store was unforgettable as the staff were friendly and helpful and the Patisserie’s standard of cleanliness was impeccable.
Photo Courtesy of Château Gâteaux Facebook Page
It’s hard to believe that almost 20 years ago, Ilan Lipschitz (the Founding Partner and current MD) started the business in a basement warehouse in Durban, and now customers all over KZN and Gauteng are able to enjoy the delicious tastes that Château Gâteaux Patisseries have to offer. My admiration for them grew as I read their story and the part that caught my eye was that they employ previously disadvantaged workers and train them to sculpt those little pieces of heaven that send your tastebuds into overdrive.
Photo Courtesy of Nabihah Plaatjes
I have yet to taste everything from Château Gâteaux Patisseries, but it remains a goal I hope to achieve! I will definitely 'Indulge Myself' !
Two lucky people can stand a chance to win a voucher each for ‘free beverages for 2 people’ at a Château Gâteaux of your choice – click HERE to enter.
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