Boulcott Street Bistro

Located just up the road from the CBD, Boulcott Street Bistro has been a Boulcott Street fixture for more than 30 years – a much-loved haunt for businesspeople and diplomats sneaking off for a classic French bistro lunch or looking to seal a deal at dinner. But there’s also plenty for the casual visitor.

The motto may well be “stick to the basics and do it well”. It’s far from a stagnant menu, though, with different dishes popping up depending on what’s in season. Local produce is always a big focus. French onion soup, crumbed calamari or seared black pudding set a time-honoured scene for entrees. Mains are meaty (lamb shoulder, rissoles, beef fillet, pork sausages, plus the signature lunch order, a 300-gram T-bone steak) and it’s hard to go past the crème brûlée for dessert.

The artworks and decor provide a stylish modern counterpoint to the traditional food. Boulcott Street Bistro has had a no-bookings policy for dinner from day one, so you’ll have to rock up and try your luck. Otherwise, make a reservation for lunch or an early evening meal before 6pm.