Le Carpe Diem

A true test of a French cafe is whether French natives eat there themselves. At Le Carpe Diem, you’ll hear a lot of lively French banter among expats and exchange students who frequent the creperie to get a true taste of home.

Le Carpe Diem has everything it needs to bring back fond memories. Flaky croissants, glazed fruit tarts and petite almond teacakes line the glass cabinet, with large jars of madeleines and macarons sitting on top.

The menu consists of just two items – sweet crepes and savoury galettes, the latter of which is made with buckwheat flour and free from sugar, eggs, dairy and gluten.

The crepes are made to order at the front counter, with the same level of finesse you’d expect from a Parisian street vendor. Each ladleful of batter is quickly swirled over the hot plate and within minutes is transformed into a neatly folded, golden square.

Classic variations such as a Traditionelle Complete (ham, Swiss gruyere and egg) are joined by less traditional – but no less delicious – combinations of smoked salmon, goat’s cheese and caramelised onions. The sweet crepes use combinations of berry sorbet, jam, cream, toasted almonds and other fillings.

For the complete experience, owners Djani and Dale Goodes recommend enjoying your crepe or galette alongside a cup of Loïc Raison French cider.