Macleay St Bistro Has Relocated After 40-Plus Years, But Its New Eatery Is Just a Few Doors Down

For over four decades, local institution Macleay St Bistro has been dishing out French cuisine. Now, after a great run in its original home, the team has moved into a bigger and better space — and the new location is only a few strides away from its OG spot.

Following its 44th anniversary back in February, the beloved locale announced its plans to relocate to a brand-new site, taking over the previous spot of Monopole and Enoteca Ponti. Now residing at 71A Macleay Street, the new Potts Point digs are double the size of Macleay St Bistro's prior location, with the 123-square-metre space taking cues from European wine bars in the 50s.

"This new space is lighter, brighter and more welcoming," said owner Phillip Fikkers. "We have the experience to deliver impeccable service, a decadent menu and an evening to remember."

Construction professionals Ar Huis handled the fitout of Macleay Street Bistro's new venue. Opt to dine in and you'll be met with memorable red leather seating and copper trims, as paired with pale green walls adorned with moody art and lavish arched mirrors. Remnants from the old bistro complement the new additions, creating a revitalised casual diner that remains chic and aims to appeal to all crowds.

As for the menu, it's consistent with the restaurant's offerings prior to relocating. Chef Callum Brewin is at the helm, leading his team to curate the authentic French cuisine that Macleay St Bistro is known for. Accordingly, you'll find that all of the crowd favourites have returned, from the classic steak tartare and twice-baked French onion cheese souffle to the steak frites accompanied by a pear salad and the silky crème brulee.

There are also some newcomers, including the chateaubriand — a hearty weekend roast available from Saturday–Sunday — and top-of-the-range caviar, which can be added as a side or consumed as a bump.

"They're dishes people know and love," says Fikkar. "Our customers come here for comforting French classic dishes. Diners know what they are going to get, and we find many of them book the restaurant because they want a certain dish."

For sips, a seasonal cellar collection is also among the new additions, offering up premium wines including a 2017 Château D'Issan and bubbles like the 2015 Pierre Gimonnet Cramant Grand Cru. You can also enjoy in-house cocktails starring Chambord and crème de cassis, plus a French martini. To top things off, the bistro does still accept BYO wine with a $14 corkage fee every day except Sunday, when there's no charge.

You'll now find Macleay St Bistro at 71A Macleay Street, Potts Point — open from 12.30pm Thursday–Tuesday for lunch and from 5.30–10.30pm daily for dinner.