From traditionally-cooked meats to velvety escargots that tantalize the palate, Brisbane’s French restaurants are serving up a gastronomic experience like no other.
With a wave of talented chefs bringing their passion for French cuisine to the river city, prepare to embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you saying, ‘Ooh la la!’.
1. Bisou Bisou
With a mix of local produce and traditional cooking techniques, including the use of a la rôtisserie oven imported from France, Bisou Bisou is often regarded as the crème de la crème of French restaurants in Brisbane.
We’re talking daily rôtisserie chicken specials, classic pot cooked mussels, as well as tasty starters such as salted cod and herb croquettes, chicken liver parfait, and more.
If you’ve got time, be sure to check out Iris, a scenic rooftop bar above Bisou Bisou.
📍Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley, an IHG Hotel, 458 Brunswick Street Ground Floor, 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley
2. La Vue Waterfront Restaurant
La Vue Restaurant is a hidden gem that brings the captivating flavours of France to the heart of Brisbane. The moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a cosy charm that sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary affair.
The menu showcases a culinary tour de force, presenting an array of delicious French cuisine. Each dish is meticulously crafted, beautifully presented, and bursting with exquisite flavours – from the tantalizing seared scallops adorned with lime & pancetta crumb to the succulent noisettes of lamb with rosemary jus and gratin dauphinoise potato.
Complementing the culinary journey, La Vue boasts an extensive wine list that will impress even the most discerning bon vivant. So if you want to wine and dine with views of the Brisbane skyline, this is one Italian restaurant in Brisbane that you need to check out.
📍1/501 Queen St, Brisbane City
3. La Belle Vie
Each bite is an ecstatic indulgence at La Belle Vie, from the tantalizing seared scallops adorned with creamy cauliflower purée and truffle oil to the succulent pasture-fed eye fillet enriched with beurre café de Paris and red wine. If you’ve ever wanted to try snails (escargots) then this is the place.
The restaurant also boasts views of Mount Coot-Tha, offering a picturesque backdrop for your dining experience. For an unparalleled evening of French elegance intertwined with Australian charm, venture to La Belle Vie. Let every detail be expertly curated as you savour a feast for the senses that conjures the ambiance of Paris.
📍1/60 MacGregor Terrace, Bardon QLD 4065, Australia
4. Aquitaine
With exceptional service and a picturesque location, Aquitaine is the perfect French restaurant for a special occasion or a romantic evening in South Brisbane.
The menu offers French brasserie fare, serving up a tantalizing selection of dishes, from the flavoursome grilled octopus to the mouthwatering lamb shanks with mountain pepper berry jus and pickled onion.
You can also indulge in delectable desserts like the refreshing lime meringue sorbet and the bee-pollen panna cotta.
📍Sidon St, South Brisbane QLD
5. Montrachet
Montrache is a hidden treasure in Brisbane, taking you on a journey to a traditional French bistro. Each dish is meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients.
The crab soufflé and bouillabaisse are standout selections, bursting with delicate nuances that tantalize the taste buds. On the cocktail list, you’ll find everything from a French 75 to French Martinis and more.
Montrachet is a true gem in Brisbane’s dining scene, billing itself as the most awarded French restaurant in Brisbane.
📍Shop 1/30 King St, Bowen Hills
6. Greenglass
Step inside French eatery Greenglass and be whisked away to a chic loft-style space, radiating a cool and rustic atmosphere. The concise menu offers decadent dishes of tender chicken and juicy steak for an explosion of flavours in each bite. The baked camembert and baguette starter will have you comforted from the very beginning of your meal.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff expertly guide you through the menu to find the perfect wine pairing, enhancing your gastronomic experience.
📍336 George St, Brisbane City
7. Boucher French Bistro
Located on the southside, this French bistro offers an exceptional dining experience of French delicacies. The cheese soufflé is an explosion of taste, while the bouillabaisse is a seafood lover’s dream.
Whether you’re planning a romantic rendezvous or a memorable gathering with friends, Boucher French Bistro is here to bring you seasonal fresh food, the French way.
📍365 Honour Ave, Graceville
8. La Cache à Vín
La Cache à Vin is a charming French haven that brings the flavours of France straight to your plate.
You’ll find everything from puff pastry filled with snails to French onion soup made with dark beer. Indulge in the French embodiment of culture, where exceptional service, an extensive wine selection, and delectable dishes seamlessly come together. La Cache à Vin is a fantastic destination for those craving an authentic taste of France in the heart of Brisbane.
📍215 Wharf St, Spring Hill
9. Haig Rd. Bistro
The menu at Haig Rd. Bistro is a delight for the taste buds. From the freshly shucked oysters and delicious escargot for starters to the traditional soufflé, cooked fish and beef bourguignon, each bite is pure bliss. The restaurant’s atmosphere is cosy and inviting, offering indoor and outdoor seating options.
The wine selection will have you spoiled for choice, and will perfectly complement your meal.
📍111 Haig Rd, Auchenflower
10. Le Coin Bistro
Le Coin Bistro in Brisbane creates an enchanting haven that captures the true essence of French gastronomy. Prepare to embark on an irresistible culinary journey as you indulge in their divine creations. The menu boasts an exquisite array of options, from the tantalizing ratatouille to the succulent pork cutlets and the ever-tempting crêpe Suzette.
📍5/1 Enoggera Terrace, Red Hill QLD 4059, Australia
11. Libertine Restaurant & Bar
Libertine’s ‘Classics’ banquet is just $50 per person, and it comes with 5 tasty dishes, including duck and ginger egg rolls, lamb boulettes, kingfish ceviche, Mt Cotton chicken, and fries as a side.
Or you can choose from their ‘I’m Hungry’ banquets, which come with even more tasty eats.
So, whether you’re a devoted francophile or simply seeking a taste of elegance, Brisbane’s French restaurants offer an exquisite dining experience that is sure to delight. Treat yourself to an evening of culinary mastery, where classic French techniques meet the vibrant flavours of Australia. From the first sip of champagne to the last bite of dessert, these hidden gems are a testament to Brisbane’s diverse and ever-evolving food culture. So, don your beret and get ready to raise your glass to a night of enchantment in Brisbane.