Congratulations to our very own Chef Richard Hobdell, whose Crème Brûlée Crêpe at the Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Bar has taken out the One Bite Slam at AO26, a knockout competition celebrating the very best food and drink across the Australian Open.

The competition

The One Bite Slam pits the tournament's standout food and drink creations head-to-head, with fans voting for their favourites across multiple rounds. On his way to the crown, Richard went up against some serious competition, including fan favourites Peach Melbourne and AO Frappe, making this win all the sweeter.

Four rounds later, his creation was crowned champion.

The dish

Inspired by classic French flavours and designed to feel right at home in the Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Bar, Richard's Crème Brûlée Crêpe is exactly the kind of dish that stops people mid-sip. Delicate crêpes, classic crème brûlée elements and strawberries soaked in champagne and sugar: a creation that is refined, indulgent and completely fitting for its setting.

It is the kind of dish that only comes from a chef who genuinely loves what they do.

What it means

Moments like this highlight what becomes possible when great chefs, bold ideas and world-class events come together. At Levy Australia, we are committed to pushing food and beverage experiences forward, not just keeping pace with what guests expect but staying ahead of it.

As sport continues to evolve into something bigger, more immersive and more memorable, the food and drink on offer has to do the same. Richard's win is a reminder that the culinary team at Melbourne Park isn't just feeding crowds. They are part of the event itself.

Congratulations to Richard and to the entire culinary team who help bring creativity and innovation to life across Melbourne Park every single day of the tournament.