L'Épicerie is an artisan sourdough bakery and French cafe in Ohope, Whakatane, rated 4.5 from 186 reviews. The bakery crafts slow-fermented sourdough with spring water from Wainui, available via weekly pre-order plans, and serves French pastries and meals with outdoor seating.
What distinguishes an artisan sourdough bakery is commitment to time and ingredients—slow fermentation that develops flavour, pure spring water, quality flour from trusted sources. The weekly sourdough plan removes friction; you choose your loaf, set it for 4 or 8 weeks, and bread arrives fresh every week without re-ordering. The loaves baked in tins are a practical twist—rectangular for easy slicing and toasting, yet the top expands freely for that rustic opening. The sourdough starter, named Marcel, is nurtured daily; it's the living heart that transforms simple ingredients. Beyond the bread, the cafe adds French pastries and meals in an authentic space with outdoor seating. Friendly, welcoming staff make it feel like a proper neighbourhood gathering spot, not just a transaction. The combination of excellent sourdough and cafe hospitality makes it worth seeking out.
L'Épicerie brings that craft and warmth