May I begin by saying, what an absolute bloody treat! I moved to the Northern Beaches two years ago and often think that I need to venture out of my ‘Manly bubble’ more to discover all that the stunning suburbs have to offer! I was thrilled to be approached by Frenchies Brasserie to review its menu as I’d heard wonderful things (plus it got me out of my Manly bubble).
This quaint eatery is nestled in the heart of Elanora Heights, which is fast putting itself on the foodie map. Despite being a relative newcomer to the restaurant scene that captures the authentic Parisian dining experience, the standard of the food produced in a wonderful sophisticated but relaxed setting has guests coming back again and again.
At Frenchies Brasserie the French classics have been reimagined by Head Chef Fabian Oliveau, who is putting his own unique twist on French cuisine.
Fabian learned his craft from inspirational chefs around the world including Joel Robuchon at his eponymous 3 Michelin Star restaurant in Las Vegas, France’s award-winning Claude Le Tohic, and Maxime Deschamps at the Relais & Chateaux property Le Toiny in St Barths, the Caribbean. He was previously Sous Chef at The Centennial in Sydney, working with Justin North, and prior to that was Sous Chef at l’Etoile, Sydney, working with none other thanManu Feildel.
Fabian is known for creating and playing with different ideas and experimenting with the finest produce – pulling it all together in a way his customers love. It’s a recipe that’s already proving popular with foodies and families alike.
We decided to order some staples and let our wonderful host (and owner) show us the way! The great thing is that the restaurant is child-friendly too, complete with colouring books and kid’s menu to boot!
Frenchies Brasserie challenges what customers currently know about French dining, by going ‘back to basics’ to provide personalised, Parisian-style service. We were thrilled to discover that the atmosphere was absolutely warm and inviting and ‘comfortably chic’. When standing outside the restaurant, you could be forgiven for thinking it is a cafe, but you couldn’t be more wrong! Once inside it’s clear to see that it’s perfect for any occasion – from Friday date night, a relaxed dinner with friends or family, or a group celebration. There is seating at the bar, table seating for dinner, and a terrace to enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail paired with fresh oysters or a Saucisson board.
“Parisians unite around great food and wine; it’s an integral part of the Parisian lifestyle. And that’s what we’re bringing to Frenchies Brasserie,” says Fabian.
Signature dishes include the mouth-watering St Agur twice-baked soufflé, steak with frites and Frenchies Brasserie signature sauce, duck confit, Moules à la Provençale and Café Gourmand – all of which have customers from the Northern Beaches and beyond returning again and again.
Frenchies Brasserie is the vision of David Singer, who had many years’ experience in the wine industry as managing director/chief operating officer of a privately-owned wine retailer. “During my time travelling through France, I discovered my passion for the brasseries in the back streets of Paris, and I wanted to recreate this back home on the Northern Beaches,” he says.
David has realised his vision in bringing together a highly experienced, visionary team.
Fabian says that when he was approached to be part of Frenchies Brasserie, it was an easy decision.
“I was attracted to the opportunity to create a quality, authentic French dining experience, which is unlike anything else I’ve seen in Sydney,” he says. “My partner and I have long dreamt of living a more laidback coastal lifestyle, and the Northern Beaches has not disappointed. Frenchies Brasserie is set on the hill near Narrabeen Lagoon, a truly beautiful part of the world.”
The passionate team is led by restaurant manager, Muriel Daydé, who was born in Toulouse, South of France, where good food and wine has always been at the heart of family life. Prior to Frenchies Brasserie, Muriel worked at the renowned Pilu, Freshwater and Akuna Bay, for 10 years. She is an absolute delight and knows her food and wine!
Muriel believes in creating a personalised experience for everyone who walks through the door. She says that Frenchies Brasserie is quickly becoming a favourite among locals since opening in early 2018, attracting a clientele that want the luxury and quality of fine dining, but who also want comfort and great value.
“At Frenchies Brasserie we pride ourselves on the finest quality French food and wines, using only the very best produce, no exceptions,” says Muriel. “You can enjoy traditional French food and good service without it being uptight or expensive. When customers come in, they receive high standard food and a relaxed, fine dining service.”
We even polished off the meal with an absolutely lovely Espresso Martini, what a treat!
Curated wine list
Frenchies Brasserie is also defined by its exciting wine list incorporating the old world and the new – from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand and the US. The list has been carefully curated by David Singer. It’s designed to appeal to the enthusiast, wine connoisseur, or a patron who just enjoys a great glass of red or white with their meal.
We let Muriel lead the way and went with her recommendation of a French Red (when in Rome, or Paris as the case may be)… It was absolutely out of this world and paired perfectly with the steak!
“Our patrons can access incredible wines at an affordable price, and we also offer some very special, benchmark wines that a connoisseur will certainly appreciate,” says David.
Frenchies Brasserie is open for le dîner from 5pm till late Tuesday to Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. Frenchies Brasserie: Shop 3, 54 – 56 Kalang Road, Elanora Heights NSW, 2101.
For more information visit www.frenchiesbrasserie.com.au
We couldn’t recommend it more highly and will be back again very soon! It’s well worth the journey to Elanora Heights! Trust us! Two (plus mini me) very happy diners!
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