French cuisine: 7 Best Fine French Restaurants in Melbourne
Pioneers in discovery and having formally the common language for diplomacy, France has made it’s impact on the world. The culinary scene is no exception with their formal techniques being used in their cuisine and worldwide. As a food lover (aren’t we all?) I’ve always enjoyed the classic French foods such as baguettes, eclairs, croissants but haven’t ventured that much further into French Cuisine (except for trying one fine French restaurant).
Having a taste of 1 restaurant sparked my curiosity to dive deeper and discover what are some of the best Fine French Restaurants in Melbourne. Here i’ve put together 7 of the best Fine French Restaurants Melbourne has to offer.Â
Philippe by Philippe Mouchel
Philippe Mouchel’s award winning restaurant Philippe is located on 115 Collins st, Melbourne. Philippe was trained with the great Paul Bocuse as Roslyn Foo mentions in her article deep dive of the French restaurant. This is a reservation required, Fine French restaurant, offering audiences with a food, wine and spirits menu in a French bistro/basement setting. Showcasing inventive but also traditional French cooking with his signature dishes of roast chicken, fish on the bone and meat and vegetables.
Canard à la Presse is a popular dish amongst patrons and overall audiences commenting on the restaurant’s great service and quality of food making this a must try spot for a taste of France. There is also an option for diners to sit at the raw bar where they can watch the chef prepare oysters, which I find is something different and exciting that can really add to the experience.
France-soir
Located on 11 Toorak Rd, South Yarra, is the French Brasserie of France-Soir. Translated to English is named ‘French evening’. It welcomes patrons from ages of 10 and above due to its clientele and restaurant size. It’s menu changes with the seasons but maintains the classic base. Currently offering patrons a variety of entrées including Sardines grillées and Andouillette Parisienne and main options including Entrecote and Faux Filet.Â
Lastly an array of desserts including Creme Brulee and chocolate mousse. France-soir receives praise for it’s authenticity and professional service. Servers at France-soir can serve patrons in French, thus adding to the authentic French experience that the restaurant has to offer paired with close tables and vibrant atmosphere creating an exciting energy.
Bistro Giullaume
Found in a contemporary setting with the ambience of the Yarra river Crown’s Bistro Giullaume offers audiences the taste of Paris with it’s A la carte menu, set menus, pre theatre menu and beverage list. Serving French bistro classics from creme brulee, vanilla bean & almond tuile, steak frites, Chef Giullaume Brahimi also provides audiences with dishes that have a personal meaning to him.Â
Bistro Giullaume’s pre-theatre menu is for those who have the palms show and dine package. Overall Bistro Giullame is a great spot for all occasions from event filled nights, special occasions and casual nights.
Bistrot d’Orsay
25 years of experience and raving reviews, Bistrot d’Orsay’s soft lighting and panelling of dark timber transports patrons to France. Located on 184 Collins St, Melbourne, Bistrot d’Orsay is next to the Athenaeum Theatre and across the road from the Regent theatre, making it the perfect spot for pre theatre dining. Offering patrons many entrees such as steak tartare and goat cheese souffle to mains including confit duck leg and the classic Coq Au Vin.
Desserts including vanilla creme brulee and pistachio and white chocolate parfait are some of the options and there is also a selective drinks list. Patrons often comment on their excellent immersion into French cuisine, considerate and attentive staff and stunning interior and delicious food.
French Saloon
French Saloon is a bistro and bar located in the heart of the CBD on the first floor, 46 Hardware Lane, Melbourne. Offering patrons an A la Carte menu that is perfect for sharing and is a great spot for groups. Including snacks of oysters to entrees of Chicken liver parfait and Smoked mackerel rillette. Mains of Parisienne gnocchi and Wagyu rump cap and sides and cheeses. Additionally desserts such as Tarte du jour and Madeleines. Patrons finding the wine to be wonderful along with the food. French Saloon provides a great experience and an environment that feels authentic and parisian.Â
Entrecote
Although I haven’t had much Fine French Dining experience, i’ve had the pleasure to dine at Entrecote on 142-144 Greville St, Prahran. Upon entry to the restaurant the exterior is very French with it’s wood panelling. When entering the restaurant it’s lights combined with the decor and painted sky ceiling created a warm glow and intimate atmosphere. Image taken by author below.
Entrecote has multiple menu’s: There is Breakfast, Lunch, Gourmet (Gourmand), Bar and their next door shop serving takeaway such as Coffee etc. Entrecote is known for it’s Steak Frites, as it’s their signature dish and a must try for patrons. Upon my visit I indulged in a Steak Frites and it was exceptional. The flavour and taste of the meal was amazing and it’s presentation on their plates was great. Image taken by author below. Â
Bistro Gitan
On 52 Toorak Rd West, South Yarra, Bistro Gitan is a family restaurant owned by the Reymond Family, siblings Antoine, Nathalie and Edouard, whose father was French chef Jacques Reymond. Bistro Gitan’s menu features an array of options such as escargots, steak tartare and there is a weekly rotating special’s board.
The European warmth and knowledge that it is a family run business is quite appealing when paired with its welcoming atmosphere, creating this innate charm to dining here.
What to know before you go
Upon arriving to any fine French restaurant punctuality is important, currently only having been to one fine French restaurant, I also did pick up on the atmosphere and patrons can go about their experience. It’s important if not essential to try a French classic and sharing when possible can provide greater value for the price and enhance the experience.
Bon Appétit
Melbourne has a rich and vibrant French restaurant scene that offers more than just spectacular French cuisine evident with it’s exceptional hospitality and artistry that is found. Let this guide be your starting point to exploring Melbourne’s fine French restaurant scene.  Â
FAQ
What dishes should i expect from a French Menu?
Classics such as Creme Brulee, Steak Frites, and escargot are common amongst many restaurants.
Do fine French restaurants require reservations?
Walk in’s can be accepted however these restaurants are often fully booked, it would be best if a reservation is made to ensure your spot is secured and create peace of mind
Are French restaurants vegetarian friendly?
Yes there are options that can cater to vegetarian patrons
What do I wear to a Fine French restaurant?
Smart casual is an appropriate look when dining at a Fine French restaurant
What is the French dining etiquette?
You should ensure you keep your hands visible on the table and ensure the you pace yourself between meals as dishes are often served in traditional sequence.
