The team behind French dining juggernauts L'Hotel Gitan and Bistro Gitan have set up another French restaurant and bar in Cremorne — Frederic.
The original two restaurants strongly focus on French classics, But Frederic has a bit more contemporary creative flair. Yeah, you'll still find your classic beef tartare, chicken liver pate and steaks with generous portions of fries, but the chefs go well beyond these French favourites. They seem to be having a heap of fun in the kitchen.
Take the spanner crab cracker, for instance. A crunchy squid ink cracker is topped with fresh spanner crab, dollops of green apple and yuzu gel, micro shiso, finger limes and seaspray. The vibrant snack is an instant winner in our books.
As is the sea bream ceviche. Unlike the basic ceviches that adorn just about every Melbourne restaurant menu these days, the Frederic team really turns it up a notch. It's added a spiced lemon chutney, house-made labneh, charred cucumbers and a stack of sea vegetables to the plate — creating something altogether special.
A heap of complex French cooking skills are being put to use behind the pass, but in a thoroughly modern way.
And it's all being served up within fairly minimalist surrounds — think exposed brickwork, dark leather bench seating and a smattering of large-scale black and white photographs. There are also a few outdoor tables that catch the mid-afternoon sun, perfect for summertime spritzes and snacks.
And with a small bar located next door — Fred's Bar — the drinks really are given plenty of love. You'll find a huge selection of French and Aussie wines — that you can let the team talk you through — plus plenty of classic and signature cocktails. We are particularly fond of its seasonal martinis — best paired with some cheeky pork croquettes.
To cater to the local business crowd, Frederic has also created an express lunch menu that includes two courses for $49. Add a glass of wine for an extra tenner to take proper advantage of the deal. And come dinnertime, the team throws together a five-course feast for just $85 per person. Be sure to also check out the specials board, where the chefs showcase new creations and seasonal produce.
It is an excellent addition to Melbourne's semi-casual French dining scene.
