I was really thrilled to find out that Lindt was finally opening a cafe on Collins Street (271 Collins Street, Melbourne). The first was opened in Sydney and located in Martin Place (Cnr Phillip Street). Having missed it while I was up in Sydney, I was eager to sink my teeth into lovely chocolate pieces and cakes and see what all the fuss is about.
It was a cold Thursday evening and after a rather miserable day at work, I walked from the office on Southbank to Collins Street for some Lindt goodness. The long walk wasn’t because I needed to clear my head. I was actually thinking that I could burn some calories before I indulge myself in chocolate heaven.
There WAS a queue for tables at Lindt. And I overheard that the wait could be as long as a hour. I am not sure if I would queue an hour for Lindt and I am sure that the hype will die down…..
The interior decor was classic and grandish. The wall infront of the store is lined with Excellence, Lindors & Lindt classic collections. For a rather big space, there wasn’t many tables and hence the queue. The counter was filled with delightful morsels of petite desserts, cakes, Swiss traditions, Macarons & chocolate gift boxes. There was only 1 girl serving behind the counter and so another queue was built. I held up the queue while I was making a selection of chocolates. And I noticed that most punters behind were only holding onto chocolate blocks. Should there be a cashier behind the counter that servers these punters?
Anyway, I indulged myself in a little box of goodies and a Chocolate hazelnut Gateau. I have to admit I am very impressed with the grandeur of the packaging. Tt says a lot about the attention and care given to the brand and the products.
Lindt packaging
The chocolates were really good. Not too sweet, nice texture with a deep and rich sensation. I bought 10 Swiss Traditions (2 of each kind) and they cost about $16 per 100grams. I could not help myself and got a Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau ($10 Takeaway & $12 Eat in).
Lindt Swiss Traditional
I have to admit that I did not enjoy the Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau. It was a tad too dry and lacking in depth. In all honesty, it was just another chocolate cake but Lindt branded. It is still good but I guess I expected more. However, the layer and the craftsmanship is immaculate and so pretty to look at.
Chocolate hazelnut gateau from the top
Another angle of Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau
As much as I love my chocolate and Lindt is a good old fashion brand, I will hope the hype dies down and getting a table at the cafe does not require an hour of waiting time. Of course, I will go back there. There are other desserts and cakes that I will like to try. It seems like a really nice place to catch up with girlfriends and spend a chocolate indulgence together.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Uh huh…. I spent a while just standing in the Lindt café in Martin Place in Sydney and taking in the smell. Heavenly!
Who can resist the smell of chocolate!
looks gorgeous! Would love a big bite but thinking of my waistline…hmmm. Should I indulge or should I not? Lindt choc is just so GOOD.
There is another lindt cafe that opened in chadstone recently. maybe you can try there if it's not out of the way for you.
I agree with your review – some of the cakes look better than they taste. Their chocolate bars are still the best, I think.
@Mary Moh – A little indulgence is fine
@Cruxie Faye – Chaddie is a little far out for me. I can wait for the hype to die down
@ Foodlover – Did you try the dessert? How is it? Worth the trip?
Good thing you didn't post all those chocolate photos. I won't be able to resist. The fridge is just a few steps aways from where I am.
There will be round 2!