Melbourne’s best French restaurants

With Bastille Day approaching, we’re tipping our berets to Melbourne’s best French bistros. 

There’s something about French cuisine that pairs perfectly with the colder months. From hearty soups and cassoulets to indulgent desserts and charcuterie boards, French dishes just beg to be devoured in warm, cosy spaces with great company (and preferably a good bottle of red).  

If you’re in the mood for French, we’ve picked out some of Melbourne’s best French restaurants that are ready to be explored. Bon appétit!

Bergerac at Tolarno

St Kilda | Romantic

Established in 1985, Bergerac is one of Melbourne's oldest and most iconic French bistros which has recently found a new home in St Kilda. Feast on popular traditional and classical dishes that Bergerac have been renowned for over the past 36 years, paired with a sensational wine list of French varieties. BOOK NOW >

Chez Bagou

Albert Park | INSIDER

Chez Bagou is a new wave of 'Bistronomie' style restaurant; a twist between a classic French bistro and modern cuisine. Having worked in Michelin starred restaurants across France including Alain Ducasse's Le Louis XV in Monaco and Chez Bruno in Provence, owner Aurelien Bagou delivers a true gastronomical experience. BOOK NOW >

Tapenade

Melbourne | INSIDER

Tapenade offers a taste of the South West of France on St Kilda Road in the heart of Melbourne, serving up a selection of authentic French family recipes alongside a wide range of French and Australian wines. Headed by French husband & wife team, Kevin & Laurie, Kevin has managed some of the best authentic French bistros in the city, while Laurie put her years of extensive culinary experience to work in the kitchen. BOOK NOW >

Chez Oliver

South Yarra | INSIDER

Chez Oliver is one of Melbourne's finest French bistros. Here you will find traditional dishes - such as escargot or a beautiful goats' cheese salad - cooked with exclusively Australian ingredients and in a style that is their own interpretation of what it is to be Australian. Be sure to check out their Bastille Day Banquet on July 14. BOOK NOW >

Bouzy Bar Armadale

Armadale | Accepts Yums

Bouzy Bar is an adventurous little wine bar influenced by the quintessential Parisienne bars found on every corner of the Marais. They re-interpret French food and take you on a journey from the familiar to the unknown, fuelled always by our favourite wines from Australia and France. BOOK NOW >

Deux Soeurs

Highett | INSIDER

A hidden gem in the heart of Bayside, Deux Soeurs, brings France straight to your doorstep. If you are finding it hard to choose between the Boeuf Bourguignon and the Confit de Canard, our passionate staff are happy to help. Sit down with your loved ones and enjoy modern French cuisine, alongside an extensive list of European wines. BOOK NOW >

La Poêle

Windsor | INSIDER

Offering the best of flavours of France and Europe, La Poele promises to bring a truly unique dining experience to Melbournians. At this Modern European restaurant, all dishes are freshly made from seasonal produce with an extensive wine list to match. With dishes including beef bourguignon, lobster bisque and duck leg confit, there’s plenty of French influence on the menu. BOOK NOW >

Excited to explore other French restaurants in Melbourne? Head to TheFork to see the full selection.