One of Melbourne’s most popular donut shops and bakehouses, Bistro Morgan, has launched its second location in the city. Located in Fitzroy, the new shop will mirror the flagship Windsor store, a European café-style space accommodating only 15 customers at a time.
The venue is by 22-year-old chef Morgan Hipworth, who opened his first shop at age 15. Like the Windsor store, the Fitzroy branch serves freshly baked donuts, scrolls and cookies, as well as toasties, milkshakes, and, of course, coffee. Fitzroy, as a location, was chosen because it fits perfectly with the brand’s ethos.
“We wanted to be in a location where creativity flourishes, and the community appreciates the nuances of handcrafted products,” he says. “The precinct energy and vivacity felt like the perfect backdrop for our next chapter.”
Hipworth says his passion for cooking started when he was just 7. Those early years, he says, were filled with experimentation, learning and deepening his love for the culinary.
“As I honed my skills, I dreamt of one day sharing my creations with others on a larger scale,” he says. “Melbourne, where I grew up, with its diverse culinary landscape and appreciation for artisanal craftmanship, felt like the perfect place to turn that dream into reality.”
For Hipworth, Bistro Morgan wasn’t about starting a business — it was about sharing a piece of his journey and the flavours of his childhood with the community that raised him. He says Bistro Morgan doesn’t just serve food; it curates an experience – one he wants customers to cherish.
When visiting Bistro Morgan, Hipworth recommends you try a donut, his favourite item on the menu. It’s the donuts, he says, that encapsulate the essence of the bakehouse, crafted with love, using the best ingredients and exuding freshness. “They’re what put us on Melbourne’s culinary map and are a must-try for anyone new to our offerings,” he says.
If you’re not up for a sweet moment and would prefer savoury, Hipworth suggests ordering a toastie. Complement either with a coffee from a curated range. Though the venue does have seating, including a stone bench paired with timber elements sourced by Studio Esteta, takeaway will remain at its core.
“I’d suggest grabbing a spot by the window where you can take in the bustling energy of Fitzroy,” he says. “Stay awhile, immerse yourself in the ambience, relish every bite and let the world pass by for a moment.”
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