Maison Batard

Inspired by Montmartre’s Hotel Particulier, Maison Batard is a sprawling four-level French dining destination by Chris Lucas, the prolific restaurateur behind Chin Chin, Society and Grill Americano.

Each floor of the building showcases a lavish concept. On the first floor, the centrepiece is a Milanese chandelier, and works by Parisian artist Claire Fontaine are dotted throughout the venue.

Restaurant Batard, which covers the ground and first floors of the site, exudes French bistro charm with its oyster bar and smoked mirrors. In the open kitchen, ducks and chickens turn hypnotically on rotisseries and hanger steaks are seared on the jospers. For the most part, the menu is all about lighter takes on iconic French dishes, with oil replacing heavy cream and butter. Dessert is a highlight – perhaps vanilla flan or chocolate mousse scooped and served tableside.

The most surprising space is Le Terrace, a breezy rooftop with an atrium at its centre. Though you could easily imagine Sinatra and string quartets filling the space, DJ sets are the vibe up here.

As for the building’s name, it reflects Lucas’s reverence for wine, particularly white burgundy from Batard Montrachet. Maison Batard’s 2600-strong collection features French and Australian wines, with over 200 by the glass, including French small producers exclusive to the venue.