To Be Frank Opens at EBV: A new contender for best bakery in brunswick
Sourdough, coffee and croissants – the newest addition to East Brunswick Village is a feast for the senses.
A Collingwood favourite with a cult following, To Be Frank has officially arrived at EBV – and it’s bringing more than just bread. Situated on the lively Village Avenue, this much-loved bakery’s newest outpost will offer everything locals adore about the original location: handmade artisan loaves, a dedication to slow fermentation, and an unmistakable sense of community.
With its arrival, To Be Frank is already being touted by locals as a strong contender for the best bakery in Brunswick, serving up daily delights in a warm and welcoming setting.
The new location features a purpose-built kitchen and more room to create, with co-founders Franco Villalva and Lauren Parsons introducing an exciting new lineup of pastries, sandwiches, and Melbourne-roasted coffee – al served fresh in the heart of the village.
“East Brunswick Village already feels like home,” says Franco. “We’ve been welcomed so warmly by the community, and we can’t wait to return that warmth – in the form of good bread, coffee, and connection.”
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A local favourite with a fresh take
Whether it’s a morning baguette run or a mid-afternoon croissant fix, To Be Frank is fast becoming the go-to bakery in Brunswick East. There’s a daily rotation of artisan breads, including the signature baguette, fruit load, and pillowy focaccia – plus the debut of their 2kg ‘super wholemeal miche’ sourdough, available by the full, half or quarter loaf.
And of course, there’s coffee. To Be Frank has partnered with Symmetry Coffee Roasters, known for clean, expressive brews that pair perfectly with flaky pastries and warm toasties.
“We’ve designed East Brunswick Village to be a place for people to enjoy at any time of day,” says Lauren. “Whether it’s a grab and go loaf in the morning, a mid morning coffee or a relaxed lunch – the choice is yours.”
Watch the Magic Happen
The interiors, designed by Cor_so Interior Architecture, feature an open, custom-built pastry kitchen, meaning guests can watch croissants being rolled, laminated and baked from scratch right in front of them.
And the best part? That unmistakable smell of freshly baked pastries greets you the moment you step through the door.
The pastry cabinet is set to steal the spotlight, headlined by the Chocolatine – a rich double chocolate croissant made with Amphora 65% dark chocolate from Melbourne’s own Cuvée. Other soon-to-be cult favourites include the Coconut & Dulce de Leche Bomb, inspired by Franco’s Argentinian roots, and a sausage croissant created in collaboration with local butcher Hagen’s.
On the savoury side, sandwiches will be made from the house focaccia, with a ham, cheddar and Emmental toastie as a menu mainstay. Seasonal creations, like the hot honey stracciatella open focaccia, will rotate regularly to keep things interesting.
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To Be Frank Open Now at EBV
To Be Frank at EBV offers 16 seats indoors and 10 outside, perfect for morning catch-ups or solo pastry sessions. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 7:30am in May (and seven days from June), it’s already becoming a neighbourhood staple.
So is this the best bakery in Brunswick? Pop in for a coffee or a sweet treat and decide for yourself! Visit Village Avenue at East Brunswick Village (127–149 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East).
