Dean Merlo, the mastermind behind Queensland’s renowned Merlo Coffee, has embarked on a new venture in Bowen Hills. The Merlo family, known for their coffee roasting heritage, is now delving into the realm of European-inspired baked goods with the opening of Milano Bakehouse adjacent to their existing cafe.
This move is a continuation of the Merlo family’s culinary legacy, with the bakery paying homage to the Milanos, a silver-service restaurant that was a favorite among the elite in the 1960s. Under the guidance of Dean’s father, Gino, the restaurant garnered a reputation for its exceptional service, attracting esteemed guests like Queen Elizabeth II and Pope John Paul II.
While Milano Bakehouse may not host such dignitaries, patrons can anticipate a touch of sophisticated European charm in its offerings. Equipped with cutting-edge facilities, the bakery will feature a menu boasting 30 pastries and 25 bread varieties inspired by French and Italian traditions, adding an extra allure to the cafe’s ambiance.
Dean expresses his excitement about reimagining the menu at the Bowen Hills Merlo cafe to incorporate authentic Italian flavors, leveraging the freshly baked artisanal goods available next door. The transparent baking process allows customers to witness the craftsmanship firsthand, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Inside the kitchen, Dean and his partner James Wilkinson have assembled a skilled team of bakers, led by French Head Baker Thomas Meneau. With a focus on producing a wide array of baked goods daily, including sourdough batard, baguettes, and croissants, the team has collaborated with renowned Brisbane restaurateur Shannon Kellam to refine their baking techniques.
Dean emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail and excellence that Shannon brings to the baking processes, ensuring a top-notch experience for their loyal clientele. The incorporation of family values is evident, with Dean’s mother contributing to taste-testing, underscoring the Merlo family’s commitment to delivering the best possible service to their patrons.
Milano Bakehouse officially opened its doors on July 5 at 10 Thompson Street, Bowen Hills, marking a new chapter in the Merlo family’s culinary journey. The fusion of coffee expertise with artisanal baked goods is set to elevate the dining scene in the area, offering a unique and refined experience for visitors.
The expansion into bakery offerings aligns with the broader trend of coffee establishments diversifying their menus to cater to evolving consumer preferences. By combining traditional roasting techniques with European-inspired pastries, Merlo Coffee and Milano Bakehouse are poised to carve a niche in the competitive food and beverage landscape, appealing to a discerning clientele seeking quality and innovation.
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