A faithful rendition of the Parisian bistro experience. It’s seen plenty of action since it first opened in 1986, but even then it’s hard to imagine the cellar – stocked with more than 4000 French wines – ever running dry.

Follow the black-and-white striped awning to find this smart French bistro. Enjoy signature dishes that the team has mastered over 20 years: French onion soup; escargots served in a buttery garlicky sauce; boeuf bourguignon; and crème brûlée.

Gothic vaulted ceilings, stained windows and solid granite columns define this grand brasserie, in the former Melbourne Stock Exchange. Order freshly-shucked oysters from the raw bar, top-grade beef and cheese from the roving trolley.

Named after the French word for gypsy, Gitan has a menu that wanders a little like its namesake, allowing hints of Spanish and Italian influences into the modern French mix. It all comes together inside a classic Victorian-era building by a family of top Melbourne restaurateurs.

Restaurateur Jacques Reymond’s vision of a Melbourne pub. It's more about fostering the pop-in, pop-out approach, without abandoning the flair where it counts. The food leans slightly more towards France than at Bistro Gitan, but there’s a notable showing of Aussie talent on the wine list.

Walk down the nondescript staircase and let your eyes adjust. There’s no natural light at this subterranean bistro, which is why it’s so easy to lose track of time. The Wagyu cheeseburger here is the stuff of legend – and heart palpitations.

Bon Ap’ differs from most French places in town. While there are steak frites and French onion soup on the menu, you won't see any waistcoated staff here. It’s partway between a bar and a good neighbourhood eatery – one where you can drop in early for a croissant or later for drinks and house charcuterie.

A petite, dimly lit wine bar serving classic French bistro fare, like sweet and savoury tartes tatin, crème brûlée and coq au vin with a twist.

A dependable brasserie serving French classics with modern flourishes to the suited and booted. As you’d expect, wine appears at every turn, from backlit cabinets and a wall of champagne bottles to bar shelves that stretch towards the lofty ceiling.

Striped awnings and wicker chairs give this corner spot big Parisian vibes. But it’s not strictly French. Alongside bistro favourites find sophisticated European dishes (and classically French desserts).

This is top Sydney chef Luke Mangan’s love letter to French cuisine. Enjoy New Zealand salmon cold-smoked in-house and a Calvados-soaked apple tarte tatin alongside a French-inspired cocktail list with eight Martinis.

This sprawling four-level dining destination is where you’ll find a supper club, terrace bar and silver service French restaurant offering lighter takes on French bistro classics.