A Bakery Like No Other

In the charming village of Saint-Robert, southwest France, the sweet scent of wood-fired sourdough fills the air, drawing locals and travelers alike to Le Fournil de Saint-Robert. This quaint bakery boasts a remarkable 4.7-star rating on Google, making it a must-visit.

Meet Ewan Irwan: The Singaporean Baker

At the heart of this beloved bakery is 51-year-old Singaporean Ewan Irwan, who traded a career in engineering for a life steeped in the art of baking. After meeting his French wife, Sophie, in Singapore, the couple relocated to France in 2003, hoping to carve out a new life together.

The Culinary Awakening

Struggling to find engineering work, Ewan seized an unexpected opportunity: he immersed himself in baking. He enrolled in a one-year pastry diploma course in Lyon and spent two years refining his craft in professional bakeries, where he admired the dedication of French bakers. 'Baking here is on another level,' he shares.

Finding Home in a Medieval Village

Ewan stumbled upon the picturesque Saint-Robert during a surfing trip. Captivated by its medieval charm and the chance to run a bakery equipped with a traditional wood-fired oven, he knew he had found his new home. By 2007, he proudly took over the bakery, which has been operating since the 1940s.

A Family Affair in Baking

Though Ewan and Sophie eventually parted ways after 18 years, they continue to work together, with Sophie managing the business side while Ewan focuses on baking. Their 19-year-old son is also following in his father's footsteps, training to become a sous chef.

The Gift of Tradition

The previous owner entrusted Ewan with a 70-year-old sourdough starter, a symbol of the bakery's tradition. Ewan dedicates his life to this craft, often waking at 2 AM to tend to the ovens and prepare fresh breads and pastries. 1iently, he works late into the night and operates on just four hours of sleep during the bustling summer months.

Passion in Every Loaf

Despite the grueling schedule, Ewan finds joy in his work. He relishes the satisfaction that comes from seeing customers delight in his creations. 'When you hear compliments, it makes all the hard work worth it,' he says.

A Unique Presence in Saint-Robert

As a rare Asian face in the secluded village, Ewan often draws curiosity from visitors, many of whom express admiration for his journey. His bakery has become a local gem, with enthusiastic reviews praising his exceptional bread and passionate service. Regulars often flock to watch him at work, captivated by the art of baking.

Looking Ahead

Despite receiving media attention and inquiries about his story, Ewan has no plans to expand his bakery just yet. 'For now, I'm happy with what I have,' he reflects. However, he hints at the possibility of returning to Singapore to open a shop in the future, sharing his love for baking with more people.

A Slice of Life in France

Since putting down roots in Saint-Robert, Ewan has embraced the tranquil lifestyle, valuing the balance between work and life. With encouraging words from devoted patrons urging him to continue, he is committed to staying true to his craft, enriching the village life one loaf at a time.