A couple hailing from southern France are celebrating their homeland's traditions in a small cafe and grocer on the border of Prahran and Albert Park.

At Tapenade, Laurie Faget and Kevin Chassagne are offering everyday French fare such as Nicoise salad (including in sandwich form), croque monsieur and quiche lorraine, plus daily specials.

The cafe's namesake dish, a briny, zippy olive spread, is based on a recipe from Faget's grandmother and is served with dense focaccia.

The couple, who previously worked at Frederic and Bistro Gitan, say they wanted to create a space that was an extension of their home.

Fresh flowers and timber add a touch of Provence style while shelves display French biscuits and sweets for sale. There are also take-home meals and, of course, tapenade.

Dinner service will be added when a liquor licence arrives in September.

Open Wed-Sun 8am-4pm, 1a-3 Commercial Road, Melbourne, tapenade.melbourne