Put the apron down, Mum: French chef calls on Australians to step up this Mother’s Day
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 05 May 2026
Australians are being urged to rethink how they celebrate Mother's Day this year, with renowned French chef Alex Charasse calling on families to stop relying on last-minute gifts and instead create something meaningful.
His message is simple and direct: let Mum rest and show your love through food.
"Too often, mums are still doing the cooking, organising or cleaning, even on Mother's Day," Charasse said.
"That has to change. This is the one day where she should do absolutely nothing. My wife will be treated to all types of wonderful food and rest on Mother's Day."
Alex Charasse is a highly qualified French Maître Pâtissier (Master Pastry Chef) and Maître Chocolatier with over two decades of experience in high-end European and Australian kitchens. Trained at Le Clos d'Or in France, he has worked at Michelin-starred venues, leading institutions like Vue du Monde and is the founder of Almost French Patisserie and Almost French Epicure.
Do better: give her time, effort and love
Charasse said the most powerful way to show appreciation is not through expensive gifts, but through time and effort.
"Nothing says 'I love you' more than a home-cooked meal. It shows you have thought about her, planned for her and taken the time to create something just for her," he said.
He said French culture has long understood this.
"In France, we show love through food. It's about sharing, creating and making someone feel special through what you prepare," Charasse added.
Skip the flowers, cook her something unforgettable
Charasse is encouraging families to go beyond the usual breakfast in bed and create a full day of food experiences, from morning to evening.
"Start with breakfast, think about lunch, plan dinner. Make the whole day about her," Charasse said.
He said the good news is that French-inspired dishes are often far easier to make than people think.
"You don't need to be a chef, you just need to care," he added.
Simple French treats anyone can make
Charasse shared a selection of classic French-inspired dishes that are simple, elegant and guaranteed to impress.
Crêpes
Light, delicate and endlessly versatile, crêpes can be served sweet or savoury.
"Make them fresh, add some strawberries, Nutella or a squeeze of lemon and sugar. They feel luxurious, but they're very simple. You can add a glass of bubbles as well to lift the experience," Charasse said.
Croque monsieur
A classic French toasted sandwich with ham, cheese and béchamel sauce.
"It's comfort food, but elevated and it is perfect for a relaxed lunch. It also goes well with bubbles," Charasse said.
French toast (pain perdu)
A rich, indulgent breakfast dish made from bread, eggs and milk.
"This is one of the easiest ways to create something beautiful. Simply add berries, a little cream and you have something special," Charasse said.
"All of these French dishes are easy to prepare and involve simple ingredients but they can be lifted through the addition of fruit, chocolate and a glass of bubbles."
Simple charcuterie and cheese board
A curated selection of cured meats, cheeses and fresh bread.
"You don't need to cook everything when you create a charcuterie and cheese board. You need to choose quality ingredients, present them well and let the flavours speak," Charasse said.
It's not about perfection, it's about intention
Charasse said people often overcomplicate cooking for special occasions.
"It doesn't have to be perfect. What matters is the effort behind it. These dishes are stunning by themselves or with other elements added. Good food is usually simple but involves quality ingredients," Charasse said.
He said even small gestures can have a big impact.
"A simple meal made with care means more than something expensive with no thought," he said.
One of Melbourne's most loved French food destinations
Charasse is the founder of one of Melbourne's most popular French patisserie and dining brands, known for its commitment to authentic techniques and exceptional quality.
His venue, Almost French Epicure, located at the base of the Sheraton on Little Collins Street, has quickly become a go-to destination for those seeking a true French culinary experience.
From handcrafted desserts to premium cheeses, savouries, charcuterie and pantry items, the venue showcases the very best of French food culture.
"We see every day how much people value good food and shared experiences and that is what Mother's Day should be about," Charasse said.
"Don't let your mum cook, clean or tidy. Don't let her organise anything," he said.
"Step up, take over and make her feel special because in the end, the most meaningful gift is not something you buy, it's something you create. French cuisine offers some stunning dishes that can be made easily using quality ingredients."
Alex and his team will be showcasing a beautifully curated range of Mother's Day dishes and experiences at Almost French Epicure, designed for families wanting to treat their mum to a truly authentic French experience.
About Almost French Epicure
Almost French Epicure, located in Melbourne's CBD, is part of the award winning Almost French brand, recognised as French Bakery of the Year Australia at the 2026 Prestige Awards.
Founded by Alex Charasse, the brand is known for its dedication to traditional French techniques, premium ingredients and authentic culinary experiences.
Almost French Epicure café and restaurant offers a stunning range of French sweets, desserts, pantry products, savoury food and personally curated French charcuterie boards, bringing a true taste of France to homes, events and gatherings across Melbourne.
Location
Almost French Epicure
27 Little Collins Street
Melbourne, VIC, 3000
(03) 9429 2080
Open 7 days:
Sun to Thu: 7.30am - 9.00pm
Fri to Sat: 7.30am - 10.00pm