These days, we’re exposed to a wider range of cuisines that ever. From ceviche to tabbouleh, formerly obscure culinary cultures are getting their moment in the spotlight – and deservedly so. But while that may be, the hitherto primacy of French haute dining will never diminish because let's face it: a Gallic meal can still scratch that foodie itch like few other cuisines can.
Below, our pick of the best local establishments serving up la cuisine française in both traditional and contemporary forms.
Fancy enjoying Continental cuisine while surrounded by the lush greenery of Dempsey Hill? Since 1998, Au Petit Salut has thrilled guests with its renditions of classic dishes including seared foie gras, duck leg confit and tarte tatin.
Where: 40C Harding Rd, Singapore 249548, tel: 6475 1976
Open Tue to Sat 11.30am-2.30pm and 6.30pm-10.30pm, Sun 10.30am-3pm. Closed Mondays.
BISTRO DU VIN
Offering “demystified” and “fuss and pomp-free” favourites such as moules frites, braised beef cheek and fondant au chocolat, Zion Road’s Bistro du Vin (part of the Les Amis Group) will charm you with its nostalgic, homespun décor.
Where: 56 Zion Rd, Singapore 247781, tel: 6836 6313
Open daily 12pm-2pm, 6.30pm-10pm
BRASSERIE GAVROCHE
The leather banquettes and timeless wooden bar of this Parisian-style brasserie go hand-in-hand with chef Frédéric Colin's menu of traditional recipes — escargots de Bourgogne, coquelet roti and sole meunière among them — inherited from his grandfather.
Where: 66 Tras St, Singapore 079005, tel: 6225 8266
Open Mon to Fri 11.30am-2.30pm and 6.30pm-10pm, Sat 6.30pm-10pm. Closed Sundays.
GUNTHER'S
Decadent but unpretentious: that’s a pretty good summation of Gunther Hubrechsen’s food philosophy. The chef struck out on his own after five years at Les Amis, taking over Purvis Street with delights like his popular cold angel’s hair pasta and suckling pig with Kriek Beer sauce.
Where: 36 Purvis Street #01-03, 188613, tel: 9010 3075
Open Mon to Fri 12pm-2.30pm and 6.30pm-10pm, Sat 6.30pm-10pm. Closed Sundays
JAAN
Combining modern French fare with extraordinary views of the Singaporean skyline, JAAN’s seasonal set menus are created with the freshest ingredients from across the globe. Under Kirk Westaway’s leadership, JAAN’s democratic kitchen is also an incubator for the next generation of talent.
Where: 2 Stamford Road, Level 70, Equinox Complex, 178882, tel: 6837 3322
Open Mon to Sat 12pm-2.30pm and 7pm-11pm. Closed Sundays.
LE BISTROT DU SOMMELIER
As you may have guessed from its name, Le Bistrot du Sommelier doesn’t mess around when it comes to wine. In addition to tastings, the restaurant frequently hosts dinners with premier winemakers. The Rillette Bar, serving charcuterie and a slightly different hot food menu, is located on its second floor.
Where: 53 Armenian St, Singapore 179940, tel: 6333 1982
Open Mon to Sat 12pm-2.30pm and 6pm-11pm. Closed Sundays.
With a menu built on the finest seasonal produce from France, this establishment, opened in 1994, has long set the benchmark for French fine dining in Singapore. Armed with an impressive, 3000 bottle-strong cellar, Les Amis more than holds its own against its younger competitors.
Where: 1 Scotts Road, #01-16 Shaw Centre, 228208, tel: 6733 2225
Open Mon to Thu 12pm-1.45pm and 7pm-9pm, Fri to Sun 12pm-1.45pm and 6.30pm-9pm
ODETTE
If there’s one thing the French take as seriously as food, it’s art. You can get your share of both at Odette in the National Gallery. Named after chef Julien Royer’s (formerly of JAAN) grandmother, the restaurant delivers exciting, modern tastes in an inviting, cosy setting. Be prepared to make a reservation a month ahead.
Where: 1 Saint Andrew's Road, #01-04, National Gallery, 178957, tel: 6385 0498
Open Mon 7pm-9pm, Tue to Sat 12pm-1.30pm and 7pm-9pm. Closed Sundays.
SAVEUR
Comfort food is the speciality of this laid-back, relatively affordable joint. Its signature Saveur pasta is made with chilli oil, chopped kombu, pork sauce and sakura ebi, and is only rivalled in popularity by the duck confit.
Where: 5 Purvis Street, #01-04, 188584, tel: 6333 3121
Open daily 12pm-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm
