Get ready to throw out the rulebook on French dining! Opening early next year, Frenchie is set to storm Melbourne’s CBD with a concept that is as bold as it is budget-friendly.
Imagine a place where every single item on the menu—from the steak frites to the signature cocktails—is just $14.
Yes, you read that right. This fresh and rebellious newcomer is stripping away the stuffiness often associated with French cuisine and replacing it with high energy, bold flavours, and an irresistible price tag.
A Parisian Spirit with a Melbourne Soul
Inspired by the artistic spirit of Saint-Germain-des-Prés but grounded firmly in Melbourne’s vibrant street culture, Frenchie is more than just a restaurant; it’s a movement. The founders, Julian Diprose and Lucas Boucly, are celebrated hospitality veterans from New Zealand who felt the magic of dining was being overshadowed by formality.
Frenchie is their answer. It’s a love letter to modern Paris that invites you to leave your worries at the door.
“It’s loud, social and a little chaotic,” shares Diprose. “We wanted to create a space that takes the ‘joie de vivre’ of Paris without the price tag. A place where you can sip Champagne in sneakers, maybe lose track of time and enjoy the night without having to worry too much about the rules.”
The $14 Revolution
The headline act here is undoubtedly the price point. Every dish is crafted to showcase impeccable French technique without the traditional markup. But the revolution doesn’t stop at the food.
The $14 ethos extends to the bar, meaning all cocktails on tap, glasses of bubbles, and beers are also priced at just $14. This makes Frenchie one of the most accessible and exciting French dining experiences the city has ever seen.
The menu, developed by Boucly and executed by Head Chef Sylvain Bernard (formerly of Chez Oliver), dances between classic bistro favourites and new-generation flair. You can expect plats à partager (share plates) that are bursting with flavour.
“Taking a lot of inspiration from Parisian bistros and late-night wine bars, the menu celebrates all your favourite French classics served in a way that feels unpretentious and full of energy,” says Boucly.
And it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the theatre. Get ready for roaming trolleys and tableside service that add a touch of drama to your dinner, all without breaking the bank.
Moulin Rouge Meets Melbourne
The venue itself promises to be a feast for the eyes. Designed by Andretti Fung from Brand Works, the space captures the romance of Paris mixed with the gritty edge of Pigalle. Think “Moulin Rouge meets Melbourne,” featuring lush red velvet, mirrored lighting, and a cinematic energy that feels both nostalgic and thrillingly new.
It’s a space designed for lingering. With late-night service every night, Frenchie encourages you to stay for just one more round of bubbles, enjoy the good company, and soak up the atmosphere. It’s built on the belief that great dining should feel alive, social, and a little unpredictable.
Join the Revolution
Frenchie is set to shake up the city’s dining scene when it opens its doors in early 2026. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a long, chaotic night of fun, this is the spot to watch.
Where: 1/15 Collins Street, Melbourne
When: Opening Early 2026
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 5 PM to late
Don’t miss out on the opening parties and updates. You can sign up for early access right now!