La Cassolette

There’s something very pleasant and very French about  a long, lazy lunch by the river. And if you’re looking for a shortcut to dining by the Seine without shelling out for a plane ride, La Cassolette might be the place for you.

Sitting by the Yarra opposite Southbank and somewhere towards Crown, this little French bistro dishes up provincial French cuisine without fuss. Head chef Jean Jacob, who hails from Brittany, has brought with him a menu of rustic, stick-to-your-ribs classics.

Stuff like lamb casserole Navarin style, ratatouille, steak and grilled chicken. All of which can be washed down with a range of French wines, beers and ciders.

But the highlight, in terms of flavour and theatre, are the flambes. Choose either scampi or scallops and Jean will cook the meal at your table, searing your lunch with flames, a fair bit of showmanship and some cognac or richard.

Served with a generous side of Parisian potatoes and parmesan and green salad, the flambe looks, smells and tastes the part. Plus it’s a fundamental truth that any meal cooked by a Frenchman at your table will taste good.

If you’ve still got room after the mains La Cass has banana cake or panacotta available, or if you’re feeling merry end your tour with a digestif or two by the river .

LA CASSOLETTE
26 Rebecca Walk, Melbourne
9614 3606
Mon – Tues 10am – 3pm
Wed 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Thurs – Sat 10am – 10pm
lacassolette.com