After cutting her teeth working in some of Melbourne’s best restaurants – including Tonka, Coda and The Press Club – Joane Yeoh started working at South Yarra pastry shop Lux Bite where she met then-owner Bernard Chu.

In 2022, the pair opened Kori, a Japanese-inspired ice-cream shop known for flavours like melon sorbet, matcha ice-cream and white sesame ice-cream, on Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. It was a quick success and, last year, they opened a second Kori location, this time in the CBD.

“At the heart of my dessert philosophy lies the pursuit of both visual appeal and exquisite taste. I believe in striking the perfect balance, ensuring that each creation delights the senses without overwhelming with excessive sweetness or complexity on a single plate,” Yeoh tells Broadsheet of her pastry style.

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We asked the pastry chef to name her favourite places around town that she visits when not crafting some of the city’s best scoops.

What's your go-to for a quick takeaway?
For a daytime bite I like visiting Austro in South Melbourne. I never leave without grabbing one of their freshly made focaccia sandwiches and a fruit tart, reminiscent of my mum’s lovingly crafted treats.

For a quick takeaway at night it will always be Pizza D’Asporto in Yarraville. The dough is so well done that you don’t feel heavy after smashing a whole pizza.

How about lunch on the go?
Saul’s Sandwiches next to Kori Hawthorn is my go-to for a satisfying quick lunch bite. Their eggplant parma or smoked pastrami sandwiches hit the spot perfectly. If I’m venturing further, Hi Fi on Smith Street, Collingwood, is a must for the irresistible hot honey fried chicken burger.

And for a drink and snacks?
Auterra in Armadale is my sanctuary for unwinding with a drink and delightful snacks. Their impressive finger food menu pairs perfectly with a relaxing glass of wine.

If it's a special occasion where do you go?
After being in the restaurant industry for a long time, I prefer going to a small business which has great food and vibe for special occasions.

Mister Sandrino holds a special place in my heart. This cosy wine bar exudes warmth thanks to the delightful duo, Pia [Tatjana-Tukiainen] and Daniel [Schelbert]. Pia always recommends the best wine and Daniel [is] the head chef and owner – his food is just remarkable.

My favourite dishes there are the white anchovy with candied fennel jam, house-made chorizo, and their special boneless chicken wings if you are lucky.

Best comfort food?
Malaysian food from Hor Kitchen. My top choices are the pork belly with preserved veg, wat tan ying yong noodles, sambal stir-fried egg drop noodles and the chilli spring onion dressing that comes with the steamed chicken is phenomenal.

Where do you go for a big meal?
Builders Arms Hotel is my haven for a hearty feast. With its divine whipped cod roe and flatbread, perfectly cooked mains and an ever-changing special selection of wine by the glass, every visit promises a delightful culinary adventure.

The pepper sauce that comes with the dry-aged club steak is the bomb. Do not miss the whipped cod roe and flatbread!

If you're going out with parents?
Coda, with its modern Asian cuisine expertly curated by the talented chef Hendri Budiman, is my top pick. The flavourful dishes such as makrut lime salmon gravlax, dry-aged duck and special fried rice never fail to impress.

If you have visitors from out of town?
Carlton Wine Room is my recommendation for showcasing Melbourne’s culinary prowess to out-of-town visitors. The potato focaccia with stracciatella and the duck and pork croquette are must-tries!

What's your go-to hangover food?
Nothing beats the comforting flavours of charcoal chicken from Henrietta when nursing a hangover. Paired with garlic sauce, pickles and flatbread, it's the perfect remedy for a night of indulgence.

Where can you find your favourite dessert or sweet treat?
Mietta by Rosemary holds a special place in my heart for its exquisite desserts. Rosemary's signature chocolate cake and cheesecake are absolute delights that never fail to satisfy my sweet cravings.

Bucket list restaurant?
Moonah in Connewarre, by the talented Tobin Kent and sommelier Amy Tsai, is high on my list.