Collins Street now has a classy addition with respected Chef-Restaurateur Philippe Mouchel bringing his namesake restaurant to the laneway site following recently closed pop-up Déjà Vue. Philippe is Mouchel’s dedication to classic French cuisine with extra punch from his signature rotisserie style, said to deliver a generous and affordable casual dining experience to those who wish to further explore authentic French cuisine.
The French-trained Chef has put together a menu that reads like a gourmands perfect night (or day) out, with dishes that focus on ethically sourced and organic local ingredients like Quail and Foie Gras Parfait, fresh Fruit Compote served with toasted brioche, a Chestnut Veloute with mushroom emulsion and king mushroom crisp, and Mouchel’s famous Chicken Breast Rotisserie with thigh cooked two ways with natural jus, potatoes, aubergine, citrus, almond blacmange, and speculos.
As highlighted at a recent launch, the restaurant boasts a beautiful European twist on the trendy industrial chic look, worked by Crosier Scott Architects with features like black steel framed shelving softened by backlit slate panels, stenciled concrete floor reflecting pavement glass-block skylights, and a zinc bar which doubles as a charcuterie and oysters station. The result is a comforting, elegant space filled with natural light, a look that syncs with the overall dining experience.
Michelin trained chef Aurelein Gransagne (Marc Meneau; Serge Viera) leads the team of highly experienced staff, which also includes Pierre Coffin, a young chef who has worked internationally at Terroir Parisien in Paris and New York’s Upper East LeBilboquet.
Of course, an old-world style French wine list is featured, highlighting premium wines by the glass (think NV Krug ‘Grand cuvee and Marc Bredif Vouvray Classic ) which have been carefully selected to maintain the high standard that characterises Philippe.
Philippe
Address: 115/117 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Website: www.philipperestaurant.com.au
Hours: Mon-Wed 12pm-3pm and 5pm-10pm; Thurs 12pm-3pm and 5pm-11pm; Fri 12pm-3pm and 5pm-midnight; Sat 5pm-midnight
Images by Tony Proudfoot Photography for the AU review. Words by Chris Singh
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