Frenchie, a new Parisian inspired restaurant and bar has opened on Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD, led by owners Julian Diprose and Lucas Boucly. The idea is simple – late nights, high energy and a $14 menu across food and drinks, built for sharing and staying for “one more”.
Cocktails are all $14 and are playful, there are taps pouring their signiture white negroni finished with an elderflower cloud, a cognac highball lifted with apricot brandy, and very dirty martinis. The bottled list backs that up with a tight mix of French and Australian wines. Beer is on tap too, split between local craft and European staples. For the indulgent crowd, there’s a tableside caviar and champagne trolley, offering $14 caviar bumps, for those wanting to flex without the full commitment.
The room matches the tempo of the bar. Patrons are greeted by a mirrored staircase that flows into a low-lit, velvet-heavy space, anchored by a marble central bar. It’s moody and designed for movement.
Food is tight, classic, and built to prop up the drinking. Everything comes in shareable plates with dishes such as the beef cheek with bourguignonne and mash, confit duck with potatoes sarladaises, tuna with peppercorn sauce, cordon bleu meatballs, and steak frites.
Frenchie trades Monday to Saturday from 5pm, with bookings recommended.