Le Petit Bistro — Restaurant in Melbourne

Wife was a little apprehensive about some of the reviews regarding the service before booking but decided to give it a try for our date night nonetheless.

I’m glad she did.

Was a late dinner for us but we were warmly welcomed in at 815. The place was full with most diners on their desserts.

It’s somewhat dimly lit, with posters and photos of all things France framed and posted around the wall. A fireplace and some French music in the background rounds up the ambiance.

The service, we didn’t get any of the snobbery we read about. There was only the owner and a young French waitress on that night. They tended to us well, entertained my stupid questions and were friendly at the same time and offered to take photos for us when we were struggling with selfies. No issues here at all.

As for the food. Classic French bistro done well.

Entree: duck rillette was served with pickled cucumbers, walnuts and house bread. It’s good, something we would find France. The cheese soufflé was puffy and had a nice bland of cheese, none over powering all balanced in harmony. The acidic side salad served the purpose to refresh the mouths after each bite.

Mains: The beef cheeks was melt in the mouth tender, swimming in a thick gravy served with mash. The farmhouse rabbit also tender, served with carrots and mash with a delicious sauce with hints of celery and mustard, a nice balance of acidity.

Had a glass of Bourgogne Pinot and syrah to wash...

I booked a table for two on a Saturday night in late June and I was left pleasantly surprised with my experience. I ordered an aperitif and a bottle of moderate red to start, I enjoyed the duck liver parfait and an onion soup as the entree. Both were very yummy, although the soup was the stand out. It was salty and sweet with a top layer of melted cheeses and crusty bread-divine! I then had a main of beef cheeks with a quenelle of mashed potato and a side of green beans. Again, the beef was just holding together and came apart at the first touch of my fork. I can’t fault the food at all! My desert was the trusted apple tarte tartin and a hot shot of espresso and it was the perfect end to a night of excellent food, great service, and an overall intimate experience. I was in two minds about reviewing this place as I would imagine that secret gems like this tend to lose their intimacy once they get too popular. But for an amazing French dining experience with a smart casual atmosphere and friendly service, please check out this...

What I would wear: A nice top and suit jacket with quality jeans and shoes, or equivalent. Can get away with one level down. I would not go two levels up.

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