Mali Bakes founder Patti Chimkire got Melbourne’s attention when she started delivering cookies during 2020 lockdowns. Now she’s known for her vintage-style celebration cakes elaborately decorated with vibrant piped buttercream. The pastry chef, originally from Thailand, shares her go-tos for northern Vietnamese-style pho, egg salad bagels and more.

What’s your go-to spot for breakfast?
Pho Thin! For me, there’s nothing better than starting the day with a hot, comforting bowl of soup. They serve northern Vietnamese-style pho with a much lighter broth, loaded with fresh spring onions.

What about a drink and snacks?
Sleepy’s. We don’t often go out for drinks but if we do, Sleepy’s is definitely where we would go. I love their friendly welcoming vibe, fun wine list and delicious snacks.

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If you’re recommending a venue for a first date, what do you say?
Waxflower. It’s a wonderful wine and listening bar in Brunswick with a cosy and vibey ambience. The menu changes with the seasons, and everything is always impeccable. They also have an incredible wine list. I especially love their octopus skewers and mussels, and the market fish is always spot on.

How about lunch on the go?
Definitely Mile End Bagels. I absolutely LOVE their egg salad and green tomato – on an everything bagel, of course. It never disappoints, and when we’re busy delivering cakes it’s super convenient to order online and pick it up.

What’s your favourite ice-cream or gelato shop?
I’m obsessed with everything at Luther’s Scoops. I love trying different flavours each time I’m there, but the Earl Grey milk chocolate and banoffee are among my favourites. Their seasonal sorbets are always divine, too.

Favourite bakery?
Ovens Street is a true gem in Brunswick. Despite their small space, they create some of Melbourne’s best bread and pastries, all packed with flavours. My personal favourite is the brekkie pizza, especially when it’s fresh out of the oven!

Favourite Thai restaurant?
There have been so many amazing Thai restaurants opening in Melbourne over the last couple
of years, but my go-to is definitely Udom House in North Melbourne. It’s such comforting food for me, especially their egg noodles. Some of their dishes are northern-style Thai, which I absolutely love! They also serve fantastic coffee, and the nostalgic vibe reminds me so much of Chiang Mai.

Best wine bar in Melbourne??
Definitely Bar Liberty. Their wine list is probably the most exciting in Melbourne, and I love that they offer sake as well.

Where did you go for your last birthday?
We went to Alt Pasta Bar in the CBD this year. They serve stunning Korean-inspired dishes that are perfectly balanced, not overdone. The oyster with herb granita was a standout, and the Wagyu tartare with duck fat brioche is a must-try. The service was wonderful, and they even surprised me with a tiramisu for my birthday.

Overseas restaurant you wish was in Melbourne?
It’s nothing fancy, but I always find myself craving Maisen, a Japanese tonkatsu restaurant. They’ve got branches all over Asia, and I really wish there was one in Melbourne. I would kill for their Kurobuta tonkatsu any day.