These Chic Spots are Cheaper Than Flights from Melbourne to Paris

As spring blooms in Melbourne, we’re shedding our winter coats and stepping into sunnier days. Yet, it’s hard to resist the allure of Paris's autumnal hues and effortlessly chic fashion. Those golden leaves and cosy layers evoke a vibe that’s simply enchanting.

While you contemplate flights from Melbourne to Paris to capture that wintery essence, remember that our city is brimming with Parisian-style wine bars, romantic date night spots, and chic shops. It's especially idyllic come summertime, when afternoon sunshine filters through lush leaves and outdoor dining beckons with its fill of bar snacks and pét nat pours, inviting you to embrace that je ne sais quoi. 

Why not indulge in a little escapism and pretend you’re on a Parisian holiday by exploring these delightful French restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops? It’s the perfect pick-me-up you need!

Matilda 

Matilda in Mont Albert is a little slice of Paris in Melbourne’s leafy east, full of charm and warmth. You’ll be welcomed by a beautiful, French-inspired interior and a menu that reflects owner Jacinta Price’s love for France, featuring everything from the classic Croque Madame to vibrant salads and freshly baked treats. The cafe’s relaxed, friendly vibe makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch, with plentiful plant-based and gluten-free options. Sip coffee under bright yellow umbrellas come springtime or browse their selection of curated homewares if you're looking to add a touch of joy to your space. 

Matilda feels like a sunny Parisian escape, perfect for a cosy suburban retreat from the everyday Melbourne hum. 

15 Arcade Road, Mont Albert North 

Millstone Patisserie

Walking past Millstone Cafe, it’s hard to resist peeking through the window at the mouthwatering array of flaky pastries and cakes, each one a tempting slice of Paris in the heart of Malvern. Since 2014, this delightful spot has been the creation of Alice and Quentin, a passionate French-Aussie duo dedicated to crafting French-inspired desserts and treats that bring joy to every bite.

Whether you’re sipping a coffee alongside a buttery croissant or indulging in decadent lemon or crème brûlée tarts, a mini vanilla crème pâtissière, fruit-topped Danishes, or even a savoury baguette or tempting seasonal salad, Millstone invites you to savour the delightful moments that food can bring.

10A Claremont Avenue, Malvern

Le Petit Marché by Entrecôte

For a taste of Paris in the form of a deliciously rich and creamy hot chocolate, you need to try Le Petit Marché. Their hot chocolates went viral on TikTok last year, with videos of people spooning freshly whipped cream into drinks so thick they looked like melted chocolate popping up left, right, and centre. Run by the Entrecôte team, here you’ll find their renowned steak frites in a delectable sandwich, pastries galore, and the fluffiest quiches you’ll ever try.

146 Greville Street, Prahran

Florian

Florian's inviting blue exterior beckons you in, while it's bustling interior radiates warmth, creating the perfect backdrop for cosying up with a book, meeting up with a good friend over a breakfast deli plate, or typing away on your laptop as you sip at steaming cup of coffee after coffee. The eatery spills onto leafy Rathdowne Street, dappled in light and shade, alive with the intoxicating aromas of freshly baked pastries and brewed coffee.

With bunches of flowers often brightening the atmosphere, it’s an idyllic spot that embodies main character energy—an exquisite retreat where every visit feels like a romantic escape.

617 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North

Roule Galette

It doesn’t get more French than Roule Galette. Located on Flinders Lane, this cosy little spot serves up traditional French crêpes and savoury galettes—and they’re the real deal. It’s the perfect date spot or place to catch up with a friend for lunch before continuing on your city adventures. Plus, most of the staff are French, making it that much easier to convince yourself you’ve boarded a flight from Melbourne to Paris.

Fancy a French toastie? Head right next door to Croque Monsieur, Roule Galette’s little brother. It has the same vibes in an even smaller space that’s just as cute!

241 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

104 Koornang Road, Carnegie

Tartine Bistro

French bistro by day, trendy wine bar by night, Tartine Bistro is our go-to spot for a lazy, French-inspired long lunch. Here, you can sip and swill your afternoon away on French wines while indulging on mouth-watering steak frites, assorted tartine and charcuterie. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon or evening rendezvous with your beau, or classy spot for your next girls’ dinner.

105 Swan Street, Richmond

Bar Magnolia

Bar Magnolia is a much-loved French bistro, adored by both locals and Melburnians for its exquisite French fare. It’s the ideal spot for sharing small plates with a glass of wine, featuring delicacies like yellowfin tuna, quail œuf écossaise with tapenade, Sydney rock oysters, and the standout twice-baked goat chèvre soufflé. The bistro’s moody, intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for date night, setting the stage for memorable evenings of delicious food and great vibes in a cosy, romantic setting. A true hidden gem for lovers of French cuisine!

295 Sydney Road, Brunswick

Kirbie

Kirbie is a light-filled and lovely new bistro, cafe, and wine bar, oozing European charm. Helmed by Kirbie Tate, this intimate 40-seater offers a menu of comforting yet sophisticated dishes like freshly made pastas, mussels, and fish of the day, as well as perfect bar snacks—the anchovies and pan con tomate combo is to die for. Don’t miss the gorgeous NY strip steak slathered in Kirbie butter.

The cracking wine list is another temptation, featuring regularly handpicked favourites by the glass, the open bottles of which sit temptingly in a silver champagne bucket at the heart of the restaurant.

Sitchu Tip: Step outside to their alleyway oasis, where concrete seats and a staircase evoke the feel of a chic Parisian street. With natural wine in hand, it’s effortlessly cool and undeniably stylish.

Wally's 

On a serene corner in Albert Park, Wally's is a haven for wine enthusiasts, evoking the refined yet inviting atmosphere of a Parisian wine bar. With elegant interiors that exude timeless allure, owner Baxter Pickard’s vision comes to life in this sophisticated space, where a carefully curated wine list meets exquisite dishes by Head Chef Damon McIvor. His European-inspired menu evolves weekly, showcasing seasonal produce with delightful share plates like flatbread with smoked celeriac butter, olives, and oysters, alongside heartier options like lamb pastrami and fresh seafood pasta.

Expect an emphasis on rare back-vintage bottles and unique wines sourced through auctions, making every visit a chance to indulge in hard-to-find gems.

67 Cardigan Place, Albert Park

Napier Quarter

Tucked away in the leafy backstreets of Fitzroy, Napier Quarter is a beloved Melbourne wine bar (and guesthouse) that captures the essence of community and artisan craftsmanship. With only 26 intimate seats indoors and 16 weather-dependent spots outside, this charming eatery offers a carefully curated menu alongside a dynamic wine list that showcases rare selections from micro-makers.

Owners Daniel Lewis and Simon Benjamin cultivate a warm, convivial atmosphere, inviting guests to indulge in beautifully-crafted share plates and savour every sip of their intriguing wines. The ambience is distinctly European, effortlessly transporting you from Melbourne to the enchanting streets of Paris.

359 Napier Street, Fitzroy

Siglo

Siglo is a delightful crossover between Spain and France, allowing you to indulge in two European experiences in one venue! ‘Siglo’ means century in Spanish, and this cigar bar beautifully celebrates three centuries in one place, drawing inspiration from the 19th-century mural of the Princess Theatre, the 20th-century French architecture, and the modern drinking space established in the 21st century. If you’ve ever been curious about trying a cigar, this is the perfect place to do so in style—or simply enjoy the classy ambience while sipping on whisky sours and Negronis.

2/161 Spring Street, Melbourne

Bar Margaux

Step into Bar Margaux for a delightful journey into the French past. This bar exudes an old-school charm that will make you feel as though you've been whisked away to a 1960s Parisian brasserie. With its dark, moody interiors, it's the perfect spot for a late-night drink paired with exquisite French fare. Indulge in a glass of fine wine while savouring classic delights like escargot and crispy frites, creating a truly immersive experience.

111 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

France Soir

France Soir is a quintessential gem in Melbourne's dining scene, enchanting diners since the 1980s. Evoking the charm of a classic Parisian bistro, its inviting atmosphere is alive with the joyful clinking of glasses and the tantalising aroma of French cuisine wafting through the air. Here, you can indulge in the perfectly strong Martini alongside steak frites, freshly shucked oysters, and a bottle of chilled white wine sitting at your table that never seems to run dry.

Packed most nights, France Soir serves as a lively backdrop to savour timeless classics like escargot in garlic herb butter and duck à l’orange. The theatrical, French-speaking waitstaff glide around closely arranged tables, ensuring an experience filled with warmth and expert service.

With its unchanging menu and vibrant ambiance, this beloved restaurant offers an authentic slice of France - no flight from Melbourne to Paris required!

11 Toorak Road, South Yarra 

Entrecôte

No list of Paris-inspired dining in Melbourne would be complete without a nod to Entrecôte. Sitting pretty on charming Greville Street, this culinary gem invites you to dine alfresco or in its elegantly designed main dining room while indulging in a range of French delights. Be sure to order their iconic steak frites—it's an absolute must. And don’t miss the cheeseburger royale topped with truffled brie; it's akin to biting into a slice of juicy heaven.

146 Greville Street, Prahran

Reine & La Rue

Got a special occasion on the horizon, or simply in the mood to indulge? Reine & La Rue is your go-to destination for a truly extravagant experience. Tucked away behind the iconic ANZ banking chamber at the corner of Queen and Collins, it promises a dining atmosphere that is nothing short of spectacular. The stunning architecture will leave you breathless, while the beautifully crafted dishes will tantalise your taste buds.

With an extensive menu featuring delightful starters, exquisite entrées, hearty mains, and even from the grill options, the hardest part will be choosing just one dish. But fear not—if you find yourself in a dilemma, their attentive and knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the menu and help you create an unforgettable culinary experience.

380 Collins Street, Melbourne

French Saloon

The name says it all. French Saloon is a charming restaurant housed in a beautifully restored historic building. Offering a fusion of French-inspired cuisine with contemporary Australian influences, it’s renowned for seasonal dishes crafted from quality ingredients. With a focus on both traditional and innovative flavours, French Saloon invites guests to embark on a culinary journey of refined tastes alongside expertly curated wine selections. It’s also just downright dreamy and unequivocally Parisian.

Sitchu Tip: Settle in for a cheeky drop downstairs at Kirk's Wine Bar beforehand. It’s a Melbourne rite of passage, trust us.

46 Hardware Lane, Melbourne

Supercheese 

A tempting stop on bustling Swan Street, Supercheese is a dreamy haven for cheese lovers, exuding the charm of a Parisian corner cheese store. Created by cheesemonger Jeremy Spradbery, this delightful shop showcases a carefully curated selection of exceptional cheeses, with a focus on local and raw milk varieties.

Sitchu Tip: After meticulously selecting your cheesy treasures, elevate your experience by picnicking in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Picture a romantic spread of gooey Brillat Savarin, velvety goat’s chèvre, artisan ham, and juicy berries, all perfectly paired with a bottle of champagne. C'est magnifique!

121 Swan Street, Richmond

South Melbourne Market

It may not be French, but you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported into the heart of Paris once you step inside the South Melbourne Market. The hustle and bustle of people navigating through each block as they go about their morning, grabbing their groceries for the week and enjoying market meals is reminiscent of the morning markets you’d find in France. While you’re there, pick up a croissant from Agathé Pâtisserie to really create the full effect.

322-326 Coventry Street, South Melbourne

Henne

Swedish for ‘her,’ Henne is an Australian brand dedicated to crafting sleek, minimalist clothing that enables you to curate the capsule wardrobe of your dreams. Much like the essence of French style, Henne shuns the superficial embellishments of fleeting fashion trends, instead focusing on creating timeless garments designed to withstand the test of time. This is the ideal destination for those looking to embody the understated elegance of Parisian fashion, allowing you to effortlessly exude sophistication and beauty with every piece. Discover Henne and elevate your style with clothing that is both chic and enduring.

122 Greville Street, Prahran

E Nolan

E Nolan is a Melbourne-based tailor redefining luxury and inclusivity in fashion. Led by designer Emily Nolan, the brand specialises in made-to-measure jackets, trousers, and suits for women, non-binary individuals, and trans men and women, empowering everyone to express their unique style with confidence.

Newly nestled on Oxford Street, the fitting room is a whimsical wonderland adorned with vintage chairs, mirrors, curated art, and an impressively eclectic collection of designer coffee-table books. E Nolan's personalised appointments allow for one-on-one fittings, ensuring a perfect fit.

Sitchu Tip: Don't miss the divine new footwear collection in collaboration with L'Éclisse—effortlessly chic and distinctly Parisian.

125 Oxford Street, Collingwood

Collins Street Paris End

Have a penchant for the finer things in life and want to flaunt your style with an unmistakably Parisian flair? Look no further than the Paris end of Collins Street. Here, you can indulge in a lavish shopping experience that rivals the chicest boulevards of Europe.

Dress up in your chicest 'fit as you peruse through an endless array of designer boutiques, each offering meticulously curated pieces that beg to be added to your wardrobe. In this iconic stretch of Melbourne, you can effortlessly recreate the elegance and allure of Paris, leaving you inspired and eager to flaunt your newfound treasures.

Collins Street, Melbourne CBD

Now you've forgotten about booking flights from Melbourne to Paris, and have your French adventures all planned out for you locally, check out the best hot pot in Melbourne, or sip on the best matcha in Melbourne.