Looking for the best French restaurant in Sydney can be difficult. French cooking is an art form, with its meticulous techniques and complex flavors resulting in truly exquisite dishes. Just look at the cassoulet, for example, it’s a testament to the chef’s dedication and skill.
Sydney, renowned for its iconic Opera House, is also home to some of the finest French restaurants where you can savor this culinary artistry. Imagine sipping champagne while enjoying seafood or steak frites with a breathtaking harbor view. You’ll find yourself bubbling with joie de vivre in no time. Here are the best five French restaurants in Sydney that promise a taste of France with a spectacular twist.
Restaurant Hubert
Bligh street
Restaurant Hubert is a chic, in-demand gem tucked away in Sydney’s CBD. This exclusive restaurant can have you waiting two weeks for a dinner reservation if you aren’t rapide. Prepare to be swooned by candlelight over live jazz, rich wine and great food. The ambiance, with its dark wood, vintage posters and red velvet curtains create a theatrical experience with and the Beatrix Dining Room giving you a real taste of the Moulin Rouge. Dine over escargots and soufflé, or if you’re feeling fancy, oysters and caviar. Finish up with a classic crème caramel or tarte tatin aux pommes for the sweet tooth. As the French say, Mangez bien—eat well—because here, it’s all about savoring every bite. Ideal for a romantic date night, but not so much for business meetings, Restaurant Hubert adds a touch of French elegance to your evening.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 12 – 3pm, 5pm – 12am
15 Bligh St, Sydney NSW 2000
Whalebridge
Circular Quay East
With one of the most breathtaking views Sydney has to offer, French bistro and bar Whalebridge sits gracefully between the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge — truly magnifique. Under the guidance of former Hubert chef Will Elliot, the menu features delights like French onion soup, poulet rôti, tarte au chocolat, and a tempting array of fromage and vino. Seafood lovers will be in paradise with a selection of Fruits de Mer, including Sydney rock oysters, tiger prawns, and lobster, all enjoyed with a glass of champagne by the sea.
Whalebridge embodies a blend of simplicity and sophistication, with alfresco dining that perfectly complements its stunning surroundings. And while the waitstaff might take a moment to catch your eye, they’re well worth the wait. For those who adore a good aesthetic, Whalebridge was recently voted number one by Gourmet Traveller for its glamorous NYE event—ideal for Instagram enthusiasts seeking the perfect backdrop.
Opening hours: 12pm – Late
8 & 10 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
Bistro Nido
Regents Place
Bistro Nido is a cosy, intimate spot, seating just 40 diners at a time. This cozy spot offers a delightful twist on classic French cuisine, infused with Japanese influences. Nido meaning “twice cooked” in Japanese, draws attention to the quality of the food, both on and off the plate.
Inspired by the concept of cuisine du marche, or cooking from the market, Bistro Nido is the ideal place for people who love to pick and share food. Their innovative seasonal menu features rock oysters topped with shisho jelly, nido wagu cheeseburger (with the option to add foie gras) and indulgent desserts like montblanc crepe, sponge fingers, Ardèch crème and truffle sauce. C’est délicieux!
To make the occasion feel extra special, Bistro Nido have a revolving reserve wine list where they showcase one or two bottles are a time. For an extra touch of Parisian charm, consider dining alfresco and soak in the atmosphere of a quaint Parisian passage.
Opening hours: Wednesday – Saturday 12 – 3pm, 5 – 8:30pm & Sunday 11am – 3:30pm
Shop 10.07/501 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
Bellevue Cottage
Glebe
Stepping into Bellevue Cottage feels like stepping into a whimsical blend of shabby chic and gallery charm. The 1896 heritage-listed gem, perched with a stunning view of Blackwattle Bay, radiates elegance and artistic flair. Inside, it’s as if every corner has been carefully curated to offer gallery vibes.
Chef Antoine, originally from Paris, has previously worked under world-renowned fine dining chef Alan Duncasse and has since refined his techniques, with a modern take on classic dishes. We’re talking sweet corn and bell pepper velouté with truffle reggiano custard and wild rice, slowly cooked pork belly and luna goat cheese bavarois, oh la la.
Antoine’s commitment to fresh, local produce means every bite is a celebration of quality. Whether you opt for alfresco dining on the terrace or cozy up inside with a tempting selection of French bourbons, liquors, and digestifs, Bellevue Cottage is perfect for marking special occasions or impressing that special someone. Ready to experience a taste of Paris with a view? This is the spot.
Opening hours: Wednesday – Saturday 5:30 – 10pm
55 Leichhardt St, Glebe NSW 2037
Bistro Rex
Potts Point
Torn between a night out or a great meal? Why not indulge in both at Bistro Rex, Sydney’s vibrant French restaurant and cocktail bar. This lively venue is a local twist on Parisian bistro, boasting a mixture of modern dishes and French favourites. With chicken liver parfait, steak frites, crème caramel and French cocktails to match, you’ll wonder why you ever dined anywhere else.
Bistro Rex is the perfect place to dress up and enjoy a stylish evening in a setting of dark wood and plush leather booths. Their wine collection is nothing short of impressive, making it easy to sip and savor from one of their 118 seats or the 16 spots at the bar, where you can watch the action unfold.
If you weren’t already sold, Bistro Rex also holds exciting events, such as gin tastings and live jazz. Quel régal!
Opening hours: Monday – Wednesday 5:30 – 10pm, Thursday – Saturday 12 – 3pm, 5:30 – 10pm & Sunday 12 – 8:30pm
Shop 1, 50/58 Macleay St, Potts Point NSW 2011
