In 2014, Lartizan first appeared in Bonifacio Global City’s Serendra, immediately captivating observers with an atmosphere described as a beautifully matured dollhouse.
The space, adorned with rose-colored chandeliers and delicate details, embraced a distinctly feminine aesthetic – a style now recognized as “coquette.” But the initial charm was only the beginning.
Over the years, Lartizan blossomed, expanding beyond its original location to include branches in Century City Mall, Ayala Malls The 30th, and dedicated boulangeries within The Marketplace at several key malls, as well as the Clubhouse Corinthian Hills.
Born as a sister to the established The French Baker, a bakery present since the 1980s, Lartizan represented a fresh, coquettish perspective on French baking.
A recent celebration on November 17th marked the opening of Lartizan’s new flagship store at S Maison, the upscale mall within the SM Mall of Asia complex.
This new location showcases a significantly expanded menu, moving beyond its initial focus on Mariage frères teas and signature pastries.
Guests can now indulge in delicacies like Fresh Oyster and Truffle Rockefeller, a delicate Salmon Mousse, rich Raclette, and a sophisticated Chicken Liver Pâté with Foie and Apple Compote.
Jonard Koa, the company’s chief digital officer and son of The French Baker founder Johnlu Koa, described the new flagship as a culmination of 36 years of travel and industry experience.
His personal photographs of Paris now adorn the walls of the S Maison branch, adding a personal touch and a visual connection to the brand’s inspiration.
While both Lartizan and The French Baker share a foundation in French baking, Lartizan embraces a slower, more traditional approach.
For example, Lartizan’s sourdough undergoes a meticulous 36-hour fermentation process, a testament to its dedication to time-honored techniques, while The French Baker’s breads are made more quickly to meet the demands of a wider audience.
The success of The French Baker has been instrumental in supporting Lartizan’s growth, providing a solid foundation and allowing for a natural evolution of the brand.
“It grows from experience,” explained the younger Mr. Koa, emphasizing the value of the decades of expertise gained through The French Baker’s presence across the country.
This experience has allowed Lartizan to refine its French traditional baking skills and offer a truly elevated experience to its customers.
