As a self confessed Francophile and Gastronome, stumbling upon Jean Pierre Sancho boulangerie/patisserie was an absolute delight. Located on Hay St, just around the corner from Shafto Lane, (and also the more recent St Georges Terrace location) it is a refreshing addition to the established coffee scene in the area. Head down there around lunchtime on any weekday, and the hoards of business types flocking to take advantage of their $10 baguette and drink deal will speak for itself in terms of JPS's value for money and flavour.
Stylish and Gallic, with a penchant for all things luxe, the interior adds to the charm and authenticity already offered by the tantalising sweet and savoury selections on display. Think; grand mahogany arm chairs, sweeping floor length wood cabinets, an unoffending chandelier and vintage photographs of 19th century France. JPS creates the perfect atmosphere for an enjoyable nostalgic French cuisine experience, whether it be a hurried lunch meeting, or lazy Sunday afternoon tea with family and friends.
From the atypical filled baguettes, to the chocolate tarts and almond croissants, and not forgetting the chunky loaves of freshly baked sourdough, JPS offers diners with every memory of a Parisian boulangerie. The real standouts however, as any regular would agree, are the silver trays of vibrant coloured macarons. Ranging in flavours including vanilla, strawberry, jaffa and violet, it is almost impossible not to end every visit to JPS with either a plate or take-away bag of a few modestly priced ($2.20) macarons. For the uninitiated, macarons are the cornerstone of any French patisserie. They are a sweet chewy meringue-like biscuit, usually filled with a flavoured cream or ganâche. Be warned though, they are highly addictive!
Perhaps what lies behind JPS's success is a raw passion for tradition, as the business' heart warming back story so tells. Albin Sancho established the first of the Sancho bakeries in the south of France in 1904. After his death in 1936, son Albert took over. The business continued to grow, and was later passed on to the original Sancho's grand son, Jean-Pierre. He takes pride in using his grandfather's original techniques and recipes, to provide diners with the most authentic examples of traditional French cuisine.
This weekend grab your mum, your housemate, or a loved one, and indulge in the finest comfort delights. I guarantee you'll be back.
Bon Appetit
