South Yarra · Melbourne
France-Soir is a French bistro on Toorak Road in South Yarra, open since 1986 and still serving the escargot, duck confit and steak tartare that nearly everyone orders. What is unusual is who keeps naming it: four Melbourne chefs in Broadsheet, a Brisbane chef in Qantas's travel magazine who calls it a key reference for his own restaurant, and a critic's review in The Infatuation — six people across three publications.
order: steak tartare
chef, Rothwell's (Brisbane)
Years later, France-Soir was a key reference for me and Dan Clark when we were talking about what our restaurant, Rothwell’s, could be. If we’ve captured even a little of the magic, we’ve done something right. Long may it reign.
Said on Qantas Travel Insider · read
restaurant critic, The Infatuation (Melbourne)
The food at France-Soir is as textbook bistro as the charismatic, suited-up waiters plonking it unceremoniously onto your table.
Said on The Infatuation · read
chef-owner, Lee Ho Fook (Melbourne)
Creme Brulee at France-Soir – so so good.
Said on Broadsheet · read
pastry chef, Bistra (Melbourne)
France-Soir. It’s kind of a given. There’s something magical and theatrical there that feels worthy of a celebration.
Said on Broadsheet · read
head chef, Yiaga (East Melbourne)
I love a late dinner reservation at France-Soir. The atmosphere on any given night is perfect, great for a date or a large group. Classic French food done well with service that is charismatic and sincere.
Said on Broadsheet · read
I love a late dinner reservation at France-Soir. The atmosphere on any given night is perfect, great for a date or a large group. Classic French food done well, with service that is charismatic and sincere.
Said on Broadsheet · read
chef & co-owner, Tipo 00 (Melbourne)
For something proper and a glass of wine, France-Soir serves every day until midnight. It never fails to cheer me up.
Said on Broadsheet · read
For something proper and a glass of wine, France-Soir serves every day until midnight. It never fails to cheer me up. For something really tasty, quick and cheerful, it would be Nana Thai in the city.
Said on Broadsheet · read
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Published 2026-09-18