Famous for Champagne, Chanel and the Eiffel Tower, the French have always had a penchant for the finer things in life.…and Auckland’s French Café is certainly no exception.

Widely revered as one of Auckland’s finest dining establishments (if not the finest), why not dress up and celebrate this Bastille Day in style?

A special occasion sort of place, it’s all white table cloths and well-mannered wait staff ready to treat you like royalty from the moment you step through the door.

Owner and Executive Chef, Simon Wright, brings with him world class experience having trained in Europe’s top hotels and Michelin Star restaurants. His modern French food combines classical cuisine with a contemporary approach to ingredients and technique.

After years hearing and reading rave reviews, I recently treated myself to a six course degustation with matching wine ($100 per person, matching wines $60) and it was one of those once in a lifetime dining experiences – presentation, flavour and imaginative combinations, all perfectly executed. Wright clearly accepts nothing less than perfect in his pursuit for the ultimate dish.

Even the little extras like the freshly baked warm bread rolls with herb infused butters were out of this world. The flavours are clean, precise and intense with an emphasis on fresh local product and seasonality

The best part, aside from actually eating these incredible creations, was waiting with anticipation for the next delight. They say timing is everything and it couldn’t be more true with our degustation, with almost intuitive pauses between courses from the waiter.

And there are exciting developments ahead for The French Cafe with plans to open a  new garden space in the courtyard where small groups can gather just in time for Spring.

Bon appétit.