THE SCIENCE OF CHOCOLATE

There’s something almost magical about chocolate. It has the power to lift your mood, calm your stress, and spark a little joy with just one bite. Across cultures and generations, chocolate has held its place as the world’s most beloved comfort food. But why? The answer lies in science as much as it does in flavour.

It’s science!

When you eat chocolate, your brain lights up with activity. Cocoa contains compounds that stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine which are the neurotransmitters often called the “feel-good chemicals.” These are the same chemicals your body produces when you experience happiness or even fall in love. No wonder a square of chocolate after a tough day can feel like a hug from the inside out.

Chocolate also contains small amounts of caffeine and theobromine, which give you a gentle energy boost without the jittery crash of coffee. It’s the perfect balance: a pick-me-up that also relaxes you. Add to that the creamy texture and sweet richness that melt in your mouth, and it’s clear why people reach for chocolate when they need comfort.

But chocolate isn’t just about science, it’s about experience. Think of birthdays, anniversaries, or late-night catch-ups with friends. More often than not, chocolate is on the table. It’s tied to our celebrations, our rituals, and our indulgences. That emotional connection makes it more than just food. It’s a symbol of reward, care, and joy.

At Drizzl’d, we see this play out every single day. Chocolate is at the heart of who we are and, truthfully, it covers nearly half our menu. From hot ball doughnuts drizzl’d in milk chocolate to churros coated in rich sauces, and milkshakes that blur the line between drink and dessert, chocolate is our universal language. It’s the one flavour that unites every type of customer, from kids sharing their first churros to adults winding down after a long week.

We also know that chocolate desserts aren’t just indulgences. They’re moments. When someone walks into Drizzl’d late at night, sits with friends, and shares a plate of chocolate-covered doughnuts, they’re not just satisfying a craving. They’re creating memories. That’s why we’ve made chocolate such a big part of what we do because it never goes out of style, and it never fails to bring people together.

The science might explain why chocolate makes us feel good, but it’s the stories, the connections, and the moments that give it true power. At Drizzl’d, we’re proud to serve up both: the comfort of chocolate and the joy of sharing it.

So next time you’re craving something sweet, remember, it’s not just chocolate. It’s a little taste of happiness, and at Drizzl’d, it’s always waiting for you.

DRIZZL’D: THE FRANCHISE THAT FREES THE OWNER

It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many small businesses don’t actually run without the owner on the floor. In fact, across hospitality, it’s more common than not. Owners are often behind the counter, managing staff, fixing problems, and working long hours just to keep things afloat. What they’ve built is a job with overheads, not a business with freedom.

You deserve the sweetest life..

At Drizzl’d, we set out to do things differently. From the very beginning, my goal was to create a business model that didn’t rely on me being physically present every day. It wasn’t because I didn’t want to work hard, I did and still do. But I wanted to build something sustainable, scalable, and capable of thriving whether I was on-site or not.

This mindset wasn’t accidental. My career before business played a huge role. Working deep within the hospital settings, systems are everything. You don’t leave a high acuity hospital ward to chance. Processes, leadership, accountability, and clear structures keep things moving even in high-pressure environments. That same approach guided how Drizzl’d was designed.

We built systems at the centre. Every recipe, every process, every part of the customer journey had to be repeatable and consistent. That way, our team could deliver the same experience whether I was in the store or not. It also meant our staff could feel confident in their roles, knowing what to do, how to do it, and how to handle challenges without waiting for me to make the call.

This approach has made all the difference. Where many small business owners burn out because their presence is the only thing keeping things running, Drizzl’d has proven it can operate smoothly regardless of whether I’m behind the counter. For me, this isn’t just about convenience, it’s about scalability. A franchise model that depends on the owner’s constant involvement isn’t truly scalable. A franchise model that runs on structure and systems is.

That’s why we’ve been deliberate in taking the long route. We didn’t franchise too early. We waited until the business proved it could run consistently, adapt through economic challenges, and deliver a quality experience even when the owner wasn’t there. Today, I can confidently say that’s exactly what Drizzl’d is built on.

We’re not perfect. No business is. But the foundations are strong. They’ve been tested in real conditions, refined over years, and stress-tested through times that closed doors for others. What we have now is a business that can not only survive but grow — with the right people at the helm.

For potential franchise partners, this matters. You’re not just buying into a menu or a brand name. You’re stepping into a framework designed to give you flexibility, balance, and scalability. Drizzl’d isn’t a job disguised as a business. It’s a business built to give you more than just another shift behind the counter.

Because that’s the difference between a short-lived trend and a lasting franchise opportunity. At Drizzl’d, we’ve built the latter.

Jump at the opportunity now. Enquire about our exclusive Drizzl’d franchises now.

WHY CAFES STRUGGLE AND DESSERT BUSINESSES THRIVE

Walk down any Melbourne street and you’ll find a café on nearly every corner. For years, cafés have been the heart of Australian hospitality because these are community hubs built around coffee, food, and connection. But in recent times, many café owners have faced tougher conditions. Rising costs, increased competition, and changing consumer behaviour have made running a café harder than ever.

That doesn’t mean cafés are failing; it simply highlights that the market is crowded and margins are thin. Customers still love their coffee culture, but when every suburb has dozens of options, standing out becomes difficult. Add in the challenges of larger menus, high labour costs, and long opening hours, and it’s easy to see why many café operators are feeling the pressure.

Dessert franchises, on the other hand, are showing a different story. Not just with Drizzl’d, but with our competitors too! The sector has been growing steadily, fuelled by consumer demand for indulgence, shareable experiences, and late-night options. Where cafés are often busiest in the morning and early afternoon, dessert shops come alive at night tapping into an entirely different customer flow and spending mindset.

One of the reasons dessert franchises including Drizzl’d are thriving is their simpler model. Compared to a café serving all-day breakfast, lunch, and coffee, a dessert-focused menu is tighter and easier to manage. Smaller kitchens, reduced food wastage, and quicker turnover all contribute to healthier margins. For franchise partners, that means more control, fewer headaches, and a business that doesn’t rely on constant reinvention allowing the owner (at least at Drizzl’d) to comfortably step away from daily operations.

Social media has also played a huge role. While coffee is part of daily routine, desserts are part of experiences. A plate of churros, gelato, or hot ball doughnuts is designed for sharing both at the table and online. Dessert franchises benefit from this natural marketing cycle, with Instagram and TikTok turning a sweet indulgence into content that spreads far beyond the shop itself.

At Drizzl’d, we’ve built our business around these strengths. Since opening in December 2021, we’ve refined a model that thrives in the afternoon and evening economy, appeals to both locals and visitors, and balances creativity with consistency. Our systems are designed so franchise partners don’t need to juggle endless menu items or worry about whether customers will still be coming in three years. We’ve stress-tested the concept through tough economic times, and it continues to deliver.

This isn’t about putting cafés down, they remain an important part of Australia’s culture and an integral part of my personal daily routine. But for entrepreneurs considering a hospitality investment, it’s important to recognise where the growth opportunities lie. Dessert franchises offer lower overheads, stronger margins, and a product that taps into changing consumer habits.

If you’ve been searching for a café for sale in Melbourne or exploring franchise opportunities in Australia, it’s worth asking whether there’s a sweeter path forward. At Drizzl’d, we believe the answer is yes. Dessert is more than a treat,  it’s a thriving business opportunity. And the timing has never been better to join us.

Enquire now and ask us about exclusive territories!

WE DIDN’T FRANCHISE EARLIER AND THAT WAS INTENTIONAL

In the world of franchising, timing is everything. Some brands launch a franchise model within months of opening their first store, chasing quick growth and early momentum. But too often, this approach leaves new franchise partners exposed to teething problems, half-finished systems, and business models that haven’t truly been tested in the real world. At Drizzl’d, we took the opposite route. We waited. And that decision matters for anyone considering joining us today.

Some rushed in. We waited.

When we opened our first store in December 2021, we had the long game in mind. From the start, we knew Drizzl’d had the potential to become one of Australia’s best dessert franchises, but we didn’t want to build on shaky ground. Instead of rushing into franchising, we focused on building strong systems, refining our menu, and proving our model could thrive even when the economy made things tough.

The last few years have been some of the most challenging for hospitality businesses across Australia. Rising costs, staff shortages, and shifts in consumer behaviour pushed many operators to their limits. In that environment, we didn’t just want to assume our systems would work, we wanted to know. That’s why we chose to hold off on franchising until we had proof that our structure, culture, and operations could withstand real-world pressure.

And the results speak for themselves. While many venues struggled or closed, Drizzl’d remained resilient. We built a culture with systems that delivered 20 months of 100% staff retention, adapted our supply chains, and refined processes that meant the store could operate seamlessly even when the owner wasn’t on the floor. Those are the kind of details that can make or break a franchisee’s success.

For potential franchise partners, this patience matters. It means that when you invest in Drizzl’d, you’re not buying into a theory, you’re stepping into a system that’s been stress-tested and refined. You don’t have to worry about being a guinea pig for an unproven model. Instead, you benefit from years of preparation, lessons learned, and foundations that were built to last.

Of course, we’re still growing and adapting. No business is perfect, and challenges will always exist in hospitality. But what sets Drizzl’d apart is that we’ve proven we can adapt and thrive through uncertainty. That gives our franchise partners confidence that they’re joining a brand built for the long haul, not a flash-in-the-pan trend.

So why didn’t we franchise earlier? Because we wanted to do right by our future partners. We wanted to build something reliable, scalable, and resilient before asking others to invest in it. And now, as we step into our next chapter, we’re ready to grow with people who share that vision.

If you’re searching for the best dessert franchise to own in Melbourne or beyond, the question isn’t “why wait?”. The real question should be “why wait any longer?” 

Drizzl’d is ready. The only thing missing is you. Enquire now and ask us about exclusive territories!

SWEET DRIZZL’D STORIES

At Drizzl’d, we’ve always believed desserts are more than just a treat. We believe they’re a way of celebrating life’s sweetest (and sometimes messiest) moments. That’s why we launched the Sweet Drizzl’d Stories Campaign, giving our customers a place to share their confessions, stories, and late-night dessert moments with us. And the response has been incredible.

Every dessert consumed at Drizzl’d has a story worth sharing.

Since kicking things off, we’ve received a flood of stories. These range from light-hearted confessions to heartfelt memories  all tied together by one common thread: desserts have a way of making life that little bit better. To say thank you, we’ve already given away over $200 worth of rewards to participants who took the time to open up and share. Whether it was a free dessert on us or a little Drizzl’d surprise, these rewards were our way of showing appreciation for being part of the campaign.

But here’s the thing, this is just the beginning. The stories keep coming in, and every new confession adds another layer of personality to what Drizzl’d is all about: community, connection, and a safe space to indulge.

And if you haven’t joined in yet? Now’s the time. Every story submitted is another chance to be featured, to connect with others, and of course, to win. The campaign is building momentum, and those who are already involved know just how much fun it is. Don’t sit on the sidelines and hear about it from others, share your story and be part of it yourself.

Sharing your story is easy. Click this link drop your confession, and you might just be the next person to walk away with a reward. From the cheeky to the heartfelt, we’re celebrating every voice that makes Drizzl’d more than just desserts.

So, what’s your story?

Join the Sweet Drizzl’d Stories Campaign today and see why everyone’s talking. Because when it comes to confessions, laughs, and late-night cravings, there’s only one place to spill it … Obviously only at Drizzl’d!

WHY DESSERT FRANCHISES ARE STILL A SMART INVESTMENT FOR 2026

If you’ve been following industry news over the last couple of years, you’ve probably heard the predictions about hospitality becoming a tougher game. Rising costs, shifting consumer trends, and tighter competition have been big talking points. But here’s the truth: not all areas of hospitality are created equal. The dessert sector, in particular, is proving itself to be far more resilient than full-service dining and in 2025, that makes it one of the smartest places to invest.

Enjoy the sweet life!

The last few years have changed how Australians eat out. While some consumers are cutting back on expensive restaurant meals, indulgent treats remain a small luxury people aren’t willing to give up. In fact, premium desserts have become a go-to comfort, a way to enjoy the dining-out experience without committing to a big bill. For investors, this means consistent demand, even when other hospitality segments experience dips.

The numbers back it up. Dessert-focused venues tend to have lower overheads than traditional restaurants; smaller kitchens, shorter menus, quicker turnover, and less food wastage. This streamlined model can make for a profitable dessert shop franchise with healthier margins and simpler operations. For franchise partners, that means more control over costs and less operational complexity, two key factors for long-term sustainability.

And it’s not just about profit. Consumer behaviour has shifted towards experiences they can share, both in person and online. A well-presented dessert, photographed under warm lights and shared on Instagram, can become a free piece of marketing that reaches thousands. Social media has given dessert businesses an edge that other hospitality concepts can struggle to replicate.

Of course, not every dessert business is automatically a smart investment. In a competitive market, brand strength, systems, and support are what separate sustainable franchises from short-lived trends. That’s exactly where Drizzl’d stands out.

Since opening in December 2021, we’ve built Drizzl’d with scalability in mind. We didn’t just create a menu, we created a framework that allows our stores to run smoothly, even when the owner isn’t on the floor. Our training programs, operational systems, and unified marketing strategies are designed to give franchise partners a clear path to growth without being bogged down by the everyday chaos hospitality can bring.

We also made a deliberate decision not to limit ourselves to a single dessert style. While some brands box themselves into one product, Drizzl’d offers a dynamic, seasonally adaptable menu that keeps customers engaged all year round. That adaptability isn’t just good for customer satisfaction, it’s a smart business move that protects revenue during seasonal shifts.

If you’re looking for the best hospitality franchise to own in 2026, it’s worth asking the hard questions. Is the concept relevant? Is it profitable? Does it have systems to withstand challenges? At Drizzl’d, we can confidently say yes to all three.

Whether you’re seeking a franchise business in Melbourne or looking to expand into other locations, the dessert sector and Drizzl’d in particular offers the blend of creativity, resilience, and profitability that modern investors are searching for.

The opportunities are here. The market is ready. The question is, are you?

Enquiry today. Let’s start the conversation!

IS DRIZZL’D REALLY WORTH THE DRIVE

We hear it all the time from new visitors walking through our doors.
“So... is this the place everyone’s been talking about?”
Followed shortly by,
“Okay. This was worth the drive.”

Secret recipe, always made fresh.

In a city known for its food, finding the best dessert in Melbourne can feel like chasing the next big thing. But sometimes, the best isn’t the one making the loudest noise. It’s the one tucked in a local pocket, doing something memorable every single night. That’s what we aim for at Drizzl’d.

We’re based in Moonee Ponds, and while we’re proud locals, we’ve become something of a destination. People drive in from across the North and even further out from Essendon, Brunswick, Coburg, Preston, Footscray, and sometimes all the way from the southeast. Not just for the food, but for the feeling.

It starts with the menu. If you haven’t tried our hot ball doughnuts smothered in Bueno and milk chocolate sauce, topped with crushed biscuits and fresh strawberries, then we’re already off to a sweet start. Our churros? Fried fresh to order, never pre-made. Our shakes are flavoursome, our sauces are exceptional, and the combinations have been perfected over time with real feedback from our regulars. We don’t do “just enough.” We do unforgettable.

And then there’s the timing. We’re open late, every night. If you’ve ever searched for late night desserts in Melbourne or dessert places still open, you’ve probably hit a wall of early closing times or limited options. That’s not our vibe. Whether it’s 9.30pm on a Wednesday or after a night out on Saturday, we’re open, serving hot desserts with a smile.

It’s not just about the sweets, though. It’s the energy in the room. The comfort of knowing you’ve got somewhere to go when everything else is winding down. The music’s just right. The tables are filled with friends catching up, couples laughing over milkshakes, families sharing dessert platters. It’s warm. It’s relaxed. It’s honest.

And if you’re still wondering if Drizzl’d is really worth the trip, we’ll say this:
When someone drives across the city after work just to sit down and enjoy dessert, that says more than we ever could. When they come back and bring someone new the next time, that’s how we know we’re doing something right.

We’re not trying to be everything. We’re just trying to be that place.
The one you remember. The one you come back to. The one you recommend without even thinking twice.

So is it worth the drive?
Come try it and let the dessert do the talking.

Because yeah—you deserve it.

WHY CHURROS WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE IN MELBOURNE

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, golden churro fresh from the fryer. It’s crisp on the outside, soft in the middle, coated in just the right amount of cinnamon sugar, and often paired with a sauce so good you could drink it. Churros have been loved across the world for centuries and here in Melbourne, their popularity is only getting stronger.

Mmmmm. Crisp on the outside, soft in the middle and coated with the good stuff.

Churros have Spanish origins, where they were first enjoyed as a breakfast treat alongside hot chocolate so thick it was almost a pudding. Over the years, they’ve travelled across cultures and continents, appearing in markets across South America, in street stalls throughout Asia, and now in late-night dessert spots all over Melbourne. Wherever they go, one thing stays the same: they bring people together over something simple, indulgent, and universally loved.

In Melbourne’s dessert scene, churros have carved out a permanent place alongside other crowd favourites like hot doughnuts and gelatos. They’re the kind of dessert that works for every occasion whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after dinner, celebrating with friends, or searching for that perfect Instagram-worthy food shot. It’s this versatility, combined with their rich history, that makes them timeless.

At Drizzl’d, we knew from the start that churros had to be a staple on our menu. For us, they tick all the boxes: they’re familiar enough to make people feel at home, but customisable enough for us to put our own spin on them. We wanted to take that classic churro experience and make it something special and something distinctly Drizzl’d.

That’s why our churros aren’t just about the fry and the sugar coating. They’re about the toppings, the sauces, and the presentation. From our classic milk chocolate and fresh strawberries combo to more adventurous flavour pairings that change with the seasons, we make sure every plate of churros looks as good as it tastes. After all, we live in an era where “Instagrammable desserts Melbourne” is a search term in its own right and we want our churros to be the ones people tag.

They’re also an important part of our late-night offering. When you’re searching “churros Melbourne” or “hot doughnuts Melbourne” after dinner, you’re not just looking for something sweet, you’re looking for an experience. You want somewhere that’s still buzzing, where you can share dessert, laugh with friends, and maybe even share a story or two. Our churros fit perfectly into that moment.

The truth is, churros will never go out of style because they’ve never been about trends. They’re about joy, comfort, and connection. And at Drizzl’d, we’re proud to serve them in a way that honours their history while giving Melbourne something fresh, exciting, and delicious.

So whether you’re a long-time churro lover or just curious about what makes them so special, you know where to find us. Because churros aren’t just a dessert, they’re an experience. And at Drizzl’d, we make sure it’s one worth remembering.

HOW DID THIS PISTACHIO CRAZE START?

If you’ve noticed pistachio everywhere lately, you’re not imagining it. From artisan gelato in Rome to croissants in Dubai and dessert bars in Melbourne, pistachio has become the flavour everyone is talking about. But when exactly did this craze begin, and why does it feel like pistachio has suddenly taken over the world of desserts?

Add melted milk chocolate to level up your experience!

The truth is, pistachio isn’t new. This little green nut has a history stretching back thousands of years, with origins in Persia and the Middle East. It was once seen as a delicacy for royalty, a symbol of fortune, and a flavour reserved for celebrations. Over time, pistachio became a staple in Mediterranean sweets like baklava, nougat, and halva. Italians gave it another chapter, turning it into creamy gelato that still defines the flavour for many today.

But the modern pistachio craze, the one that’s filling your TikTok feed and making you search “pistachio desserts near me”, has roots in another global food trend: Dubai chocolate.

In recent years, Dubai became a hotspot for indulgent desserts and flavour mashups. Videos of pistachio croissants dripping with melted chocolate, pistachio crepes stuffed with Nutella, and pistachio milkshakes topped with gold leaf went viral, setting off a global obsession. Dubai’s reputation for excess met pistachio’s naturally luxurious character, and suddenly the world couldn’t get enough of it.

This wave didn’t stay contained to the UAE. Tourists brought the flavours home, food bloggers jumped on it, and pistachio became a household craving. Add the fact that pistachio’s soft green colour pops on Instagram and TikTok, and it was inevitable that pistachio would explode into a worldwide dessert craze.

So why does pistachio resonate so strongly? It’s because it offers balance. Chocolate is indulgent. Caramel is rich. Strawberry is sweet. But pistachio is layered; earthy, creamy, nutty, subtly sweet. It has enough depth to feel “grown-up,” but enough comfort to feel nostalgic. And when paired with chocolate (as Dubai proved), honey, or fruit, it takes on a new dimension every time.

At Drizzl’d, we’ve seen the demand first-hand. Customers have been asking for pistachio, and we decided it was time to deliver. Our new menu has just soft-launched, featuring not one but two pistachio-inspired creations. Both items celebrate the richness of pistachio while keeping true to Drizzl’d’s signature playful style.

But here’s where we did things differently. Instead of overloading the flavour, we’ve kept them versatile. We wanted our customers to be able to make them their own whether that means adding milk chocolate for a creamy indulgence, drizzling honey for a Middle Eastern twist, or topping them with strawberries for a fresh, fruity contrast. Pistachio is the hero, but how you enjoy it is entirely up to you.

This is part of what makes pistachio so exciting. It’s not just a trend, it’s a canvas. Across cultures and continents, it has evolved and adapted, from Turkish delights to Italian gelato to Dubai’s chocolate-drenched creations. For us, it would feel wrong to box pistachio into one fixed identity when its strength lies in versatility. That’s why our recipes are constantly evolving. Even if customers don’t notice, we’re always testing, tweaking, and refining to make sure pistachio stays fresh and unforgettable at Drizzl’d.

When people ask, “When did the pistachio craze start?” the answer is layered, much like the flavour itself. It started centuries ago in Persian kitchens. It gained momentum in Mediterranean markets. It exploded on the streets of Dubai with chocolate-drizzled croissants. And now, here in Melbourne, the craze is finding new life in places like Drizzl’d where pistachio isn’t just another topping, but a flavour we’ve reimagined for today’s dessert lovers.

If you’ve been searching for the best pistachio desserts in Melbourne, or wondering where to try the latest pistachio flavours, you don’t have to look far. Our new menu is waiting, with pistachio creations you can enjoy your way.

The craze may have started centuries ago, but at Drizzl’d, it feels like it’s only just beginning.

Because yeah, you deserve it.

FRANCHISE MYTHS BUSTED!!

Franchising has become one of the most popular ways to get into business ownership but with its rise, many myths and misconceptions have followed. At Drizzl’d, we speak with potential franchisees every week, and we often hear the same concerns pop up. Most of which are based on outdated or inaccurate assumptions.

So today, we’re breaking down five of the most common franchise myths/concerns we’ve encountered and setting the record straight.

Myth 1: You need hospitality or food experience to own a franchise.

One of the most common misconceptions is that you must have worked in the food industry to succeed in a franchise like Drizzl’d. The truth? You don’t need prior hospitality experience. While it can be helpful, what matters most is your willingness to learn, your ability to follow systems, and your drive to lead a team. Our training and support cover everything you need to run your store confidently—even if you've never made a waffle in your life.

Myth 2: Franchising is only for wealthy investors.

Yes, franchising does require an investment but it’s often more affordable than people think, especially when compared to starting a business from scratch. At Drizzl’d, we’ve structured our investment model to be accessible, clear, and transparent, with support throughout the process. We also help you understand the breakdown of costs, from store fit-outs to training and marketing, so there are no hidden surprises.

Myth 3: You have to be hands-on every day.

Many people assume that owning a franchise means working 12-hour days, seven days a week. While some owners choose to be involved in the day-to-day, it’s not a requirement long term. Our model at Drizzl’d is designed to run efficiently even when the owner isn’t on-site full-time. With strong systems, reliable staff, and proper training, you can operate the business in a way that suits your lifestyle.

Myth 4: Franchising means no freedom or creativity.

A franchise gives you a proven system but that doesn’t mean you’re just a cog in the machine. At Drizzl’d, we encourage franchisees to bring energy, leadership, and local insight to their stores. While the brand and menu are consistent, there’s room for personality, community engagement, and building your store’s unique vibe.

Myth 5: All franchise opportunities are the same

Franchises vary widely in quality, support, and values. It’s vital to do your research. Look at how involved the founders are, how much support is provided, and whether the business has been tested in tough conditions. At Drizzl’d, we waited to franchise until we knew the model could withstand real-world pressure and that’s something every potential franchisee should look for.

Franchising can be life-changing, but success starts with the right information. Don’t let myths hold you back—know the facts, ask the right questions, and choose a brand that’s built on strength, support, and shared success.

Thinking about buying a franchise? Drizzl’d is now offering franchise opportunities to motivated partners who want to build a sweet business with a strong foundation.

Submit your interest today and let’s have a chat. You deserve it!