Ondine

For a French bistro, Ondine is markedly relaxed and unpretentious. It pays homage to classic French staples, with generously portioned meals, great service and a spacious setting.

You might start with a selection of cured meats and pickles; roasted celeriac served with apple, almond cream and pickled grapes; or chicken, tarragon and hazelnut terrine. For mains, try the signature boeuf bourguignon; or Murray cod – an amalgamation of French and modern Australian cuisine with a crispy-skinned fillet in fish ragu. If you’re sharing, go for the theatrical cote de boeuf, carved and served tableside from a dedicated trolley.

The dessert menu features crème brûlée and Ondine’s take on the île flottante (meringue floating on custard), which showcases delicate figs and custard spiked with Grand Marnier, a cognac and bitter orange liqueur.

The drinks list includes cocktails like the Kir Royal Pèche and Negroni, plus a suite of wines suited to all tastes – from a fresh Debussy Reverie rosé to a muscular Cyril Henschke cabernet sauvignon.

The venue’s dining room is spacious with dark furnishings and low lighting. Palatial navy and sheer white curtains divide the space. The waitstaff are friendly, knowledgeable and intuitive, and won’t rush you out the door. Come, stay a while and enjoy the comfort of an unpretentious and classic French bistro.