A bold new era for French dining
Frenchie arrives in early 2026 with an energy that instantly grabs Melbourne’s attention. The entire menu is set at $14, which includes every dish, every cocktail on tap, every beer and every glass of bubbles. The idea is simple and clever. French technique stays front and centre, yet the price point removes the formality that often scares people away.
The founders, Julian Diprose and Lucas Boucly, want dining to feel alive again. Their experience in hospitality guided them towards a concept that blends Parisian flair with Melbourne’s street culture. They noticed that traditional dining had become predictable. Frenchie flips that script with a louder, more social approach.
Diprose explains, “It’s loud, social and a little chaotic. 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 vision extends well beyond affordability. The team wants guests to relax, stay late and enjoy the kind of atmosphere that feels spontaneous. That mood sets Frenchie apart in a city that loves a good dining shake-up.
A menu built for flavour and theatre
The food brings classic French ideas into a modern, accessible style. Every plate is crafted by Boucly and executed by Head Chef Sylvain Bernard, known for his work at Chez Oliver. The dishes lean into share-style dining and aim to highlight bold flavour rather than formality.
Roaming trolleys and tableside touches add a sense of theatre that gives guests a story to take home. Boucly says, “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.”
This approach suits the Melbourne crowd. It rewards curious diners, late-night adventurers and anyone who wants French food without the stiffness that usually comes with it.
Parisian romance meets Melbourne grit
The design of the venue comes from Andretti Fung of Brand Works. The concept blends the velvet glamour of Paris with the grit of Pigalle. Red textures, mirrored lighting, and warm cinematic tones fill the space. Guests will notice how the room shifts from romantic to energetic depending on the hour.
The Saint-Germain inspiration threads through the experience, yet Melbourne’s character still leads. It feels familiar but also fresh. The mix of elegance and looseness is the exact mood the founders want. People can sit for hours without feeling rushed.
Late nights and accessible pricing
Frenchie plans to operate late into the night, which fits the venue’s character. The $14 pricing structure keeps the experience approachable, while the Parisian energy keeps things exciting. Guests can enjoy bubbles, cocktails and food without worrying about climbing costs. It creates a night out that feels generous even on a budget.
The model works well in Melbourne’s CBD, where late-night options often divide into either high-end dining or casual takeaway. Frenchie sits in the middle with confidence. It offers style without pretension and value without compromise.
Why this will be one of 2026’s biggest openings
Melbourne’s dining scene loves a concept that pushes boundaries. Frenchie does that while keeping things simple for guests. It offers a memorable night that feels both elevated and fun. The price point attracts curiosity, while the storytelling and atmosphere keep people coming back.
Restaurant Details
Frenchie
1/15 Collins Street, Melbourne
Opening: Early 2026
Trading hours: Monday to Saturday, 5 pm to late
Early Access: HERE