Wine and Dine at the 8 Best French Restaurants in Sydney

There’s no denying the fact that French restaurants in Sydney are always in fashion.

Stepping into city stalwarts like Bistro Guillaume and Bistro Moncur for a French feast is an experience one can’t help but enjoy. Especially when shared with a special someone (Valentine's Day dinner doesn't get much more charming).

Adored in the likes of Melbourne and Perth all the way to London and Singapore, French restaurants are home to some of the world’s most iconic and romantic dishes.

Know your coq au vin from your steak tartare and escargots? Or your chardonnay from your sauvignon blanc?

Whether you’re a connoisseur of French cuisine or simply a fan of fantastic food and drink, a meal at one of these eight Sydney restaurants will definitely put a spring in your step.

Bon appétit!

The Top 8 French Restaurants in Sydney

1. Restaurant Hubert

Considered the crème de la crème of French eateries

Serving up an incredible combination of French cuisine and live jazz music, Restaurant Hubert is a must-visit. Hands down one of the best French restaurants in Sydney, this Bligh Street venue possesses an irresistible charm. Located close to some of the city’s most iconic sights, Hubert’s stunning menu makes the restaurant an attraction in its own right. Highlights include the chicken fricassée, the escargot XO and any one of the fine Champagnes on offer. Our advice? Believe the hype.

Address: 15 Bligh Street, Sydney CBDOpening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 4:00pm – 1:00am (also open for lunch on Thursday & Friday from 12:00pm – 3:00pm)

2. Bistro Cocotte

An authentic taste of Parisian life in the New South Wales capital

It’s official: French restaurants in Haberfield don’t come much better than Bistro Cocotte. Refined in every sense of the word, this Ramsay Street venue (no, not that Ramsay Street, Neighbours fans) oozes class. The kitchen’s French onion soup and ratatouille tartlets are just two of the many reasons to visit. What’s more, those of you with a sweet tooth are sure to be bowled over by the desserts on offer here and at Patisserie Cocotte – a sister venture – in Ryde.

Address: 78 Ramsay Street, HaberfieldOpening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 6:00pm – late

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3. Kittyhawk

Stylish restaurant & bar that warrants more than just a flying visit

If you are looking for one of the most unique French restaurants in Sydney, make your way down to Kittyhawk. Passionate about cocktails and delicious French cuisine, this Phillip Lane spot cooks up one of the best steaks in Sydney. A stone’s throw away from Restaurant Hubert, Kittyhawk’s decor is inspired by the Liberation of Paris in 1944. The venue’s slow-cooked lamb shoulder, crème brûlée and lavender-infused ‘So Far, So Good’ cocktail are guaranteed to whet your appetite.

Address: 16 Phillip Lane, Sydney CBDOpening Hours: Monday to Friday: 3:00pm – 12:00am; Saturday: 4:00pm – 12:00am

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4. Gavroche Chippendale

Elegant French eatery that hits all the right notes

Gavroche Chippendale is a Parisian-inspired restaurant that towers above its neighbourhood contemporaries. Boasting an interior design that wouldn’t look out of place on a magazine cover, Gavroche’s menu is also known for turning heads. The kitchen’s signature duck leg confit and magnificent cheese board are simply divine. If you’re looking to knock a first date off their feet, dinner and a glass or two of wine at Gavroche Chippendale is a sure-fire recipe for success.

Address: 1/2-10 Kensington Street, ChippendaleOpening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 5:30pm – late (also open for lunch Friday to Sunday from 12:00pm – 3:00pm)

5. Felix

Sophisticated CBD brasserie with a passion for gastronomy

An eatery you cannot help but fall head over heels for, Felix is one of the most romantic French restaurants in Sydney. The attention to detail taken at this Ash Street venue is exquisite, from the impressive chandeliers and pewter bar to the presentation of the dishes. Speaking of the food, the chicken liver pâté and twice-baked Gruyère soufflé are true culinary gems. Trust us when we say you’ll be wanting to serenade the chefs and service team come the end of your meal here.

Address: 2 Ash Street, Sydney CBDOpening Hours: Monday to Friday: 12:00pm – 10:30pm; Saturday: 5:30pm – 10:30pm; Sunday: 12:00pm – 9:30pm

6. Le Bouchon

Cafe & bistro making waves on Sydney’s Lower North Shore

Flying the tricolore for French restaurants in Crows Nest, Le Bouchon is a perfect venue for all occasions. Leisurely lunches, intimate dinners, anniversary celebrations – Le Bouchon caters for all. The kitchen’s sublime sole meunière with beurre noisette is perhaps deserving of its very own article, whilst the sour cherry clafoutis is sure to put a smile on your face. If the idea of tucking into a scintillating French meal in a casual setting sounds right up your street, hit up this Willoughby Road spot ASAP.

Address: 104 Willoughby Road, Crows NestOpening Hours: Monday: 6:00pm – 9:30pm; Tuesday to Friday: 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 6:00pm – 9:30pm; Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 2:30pm and 6:00pm – 9:30pm

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7. Bistro Papillon

Inviting French restaurant with buckets of charisma

Another leading light in the category of best French restaurants in Sydney, Bistro Papillon is a bona fide star of the city’s dining scene. Whether you are visiting this vibrant Clarence Street venue for the first or fiftieth time, you are sure to be welcomed with open arms. Tartes flambées, beef Bourguignon and a devilishly-good raclette are the headline dishes at Papillon. Leave some room for dessert too, as the apple tarte tatin is truly in a class of its own.

Address: 98 Clarence Street, Sydney CBDOpening Hours: Monday to Friday: lunch & dinner; Saturday: dinner only

8. Bistro Rex

Popular Potts Point restaurant with a mighty fine wine cellar

Capping off our list of top French eateries in Sydney is Bistro Rex, a restaurant that adores the simple things in life. Chefs at this sophisticated MacLeay Street spot are experts at using exceptional Australian produce to whip up some sensational plates. Steak frites, rabbit terrine, rock oysters… need we say more? With a winning combination of great food, warm ambience and stunning decor, it’s no surprise to learn that a table reservation at Bistro Rex is often the hottest ticket in town.

Address: 50 MacLeay Street, Potts Point NSW 2011Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00pm – 12:00am; Sunday: 12:00pm – 10:00pm