Welcoming Tammy and all the sweet treats to the Flour Mill!
As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of our Flour Mill community, we are excited to introduce you to Tammy, the passionate entrepreneur behind “Asterisque Dessert Bar,” our new local destination for ice cream and sweet treats.
Tammy’s journey from Taiwan to Australia and her background in food technology have shaped her vision for Asterisque, where she aims to create a cozy, inviting space for everyone to enjoy delicious ice cream, waffles, sundaes, cakes and other sweet indulgences.
In this Q&A, Tammy shares her story and her plans.
Q: Tammy, tell us a little bit about yourself.
Tammy: I was born in Taiwan and moved to Australian when I was seven. I live with my parents here, but my brother is still in Taiwan. Until recently, I worked as a food tech QA where I was responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and consistency of food products. Right now, I’m getting ready to getting ready to open Asterisque Dessert Bar at the Flour Mill of Summer Hill.
Q: Have you always wanted to start a business in food?
Tammy: Yes, I’ve always wanted to have a business in the food industry. This will be my first business venture.
I studied Food Technology at Western Sydney University and found it really enjoyable. While I enjoyed my studies, I was more interested in R&D than QA. I like developing flavours and products. I like seeing what people like and adapting to meet people tastes. I’m excited to offer our own ice cream flavours as we grow.
Q: You have really built suspense, we have all been waiting for you to open. How has it gone?
Tammy: It’s taken a lot to get set up, and we have been unlucky with some delays but we are thrilled to begin slowly introducing ourselves to the community. We have decided to start small with a limited offering and build from there.
Q: What can you tell us about Asterisque?
Tammy: It’s is a cozy dessert bar where you can indulge in a variety of sweet treats. We will offer, ice cream, parfaits, sundaes. We will also eventually offer cakes, both by the slice and for celebrations.
We aim to create a calm, relaxing environment where you can sit down and take your time enjoying your dessert. We have both indoor and outdoor seating and encourage people to take their time – not caught up in the havoc of life.
Q: Why did you choose this area for your business?
Tammy: I discovered the Flour Mill after moving to the area and instantly fell in love with it. It’s a small community, which I believe is the best environment to start a business.
Q: Why is this community special to you?
Tammy: Getting to know the area has been wonderful. When I found the space listing online, I thought this feels homey. The small community vibe is perfect for what I want to create.
Q: How does your business contribute to connection in this community?
Tammy: Desserts are a form of celebration and bring people together. You can bring your kids, come after dinner and share special moments over delicious treats.
Also, our menu is allergy-friendly and caters to various dietary needs. I don’t want kids to miss out on ice cream because of allergies so, in time, there will be lots of options available.
Q: What is the top thing on your bucket list?
Tammy: Opening this business is a big dream of mine. I love food, new flavours and creating a relaxed, social environment. As for travel, I haven’t done much yet, but it’s on my list for the future.
Q: What are you most grateful for?
Tammy: I’m grateful for sweets and desserts because they are so yum! But also, for my parents who brought me to Australia when I was so young. It has provided a better environment to grow up in and created opportunities for me I wouldn’t have otherwise had. They have also been helping me setup and are always the first to pitch in and help me.
Q: Important question… what is your favorite dessert?
Tammy: Anything with citrus, like lemon meringue or orange sorbet. I also love ice cream, especially the good classic vanilla.
Q: What was the last Little BIG action you received from someone?
Tammy: Greg and Deb at Hampton & French have been soooo helpful while we have been setting up. They have been helping with construction, lending us things and Deb has an amazing eye for detail. They were generous with their time and ideas. To have the family-style support of a business neighbour it has been incredible.
OPENING HOURS
Monday to Friday – 12pm to 8pm
Saturday to Sunday – 10am to 6pm
*subject to change
The Little BIG team and some of the other Flour Mill businesses have been working with Tammy in the Uptown Accelerator program and have loved getting to know her and her family over the last few months. We have also be privy to a few exclusive ice cream tastings – yum.
Welcome to the Flour Mill Tammy, we are excited to have you (and our sweet treats) here!