Following his much anticipated takeover of the dining room at The Four in Hand, Guillaume Brahimi has now unveiled his latest Sydney venture, an all-day dining experience titled Bistro Guillaume which includes the acclaimed French-born chef’s very first patisserie. The glamorous 130-seat restaurant joins Guillaume’s Melbourne and Perth bistros on his impressive portfolio, bringing casual French dining to George Street’s Suncorp Building.
Some of the favourites from Brahimi’s other Australian bistros have made their way onto the Sydney menu, including the classic Onion Soup, the Twice Baked Cheese Soufflé with Roquefort sauce, Barossa Chicken with tarragon and Paris mash, and Steak Frites with béarnaise. Of course, there are also some Sydney exclusives designed by Brahimi and Head Chef Jeremy Pace, offering the likes of Lamb Pithivier, whiting Colbert with pomme pont neuf, and Cote de Boeuf with kipfler potatoes and béarnaise. The dining menu will of course be complemented with a strong selection of wine from an extensive list featuring classic and back vintages source from France and across Australia, all of which will be on display in a custom built temperature controlled wine room that also doubles as the restaurant’s private dining room.
A dessert trolley will make its way through the venue, delivering classic French desserts like Lemon Tart, a Millefeuille with Madagascan vanilla cream, Pistachio Trifle, Paris Brest, and Valrhona Chocolate Mousse by-slice or by-scoop.
For those with a bit less time on their hands, a takeaway counter has been set up in the space, showcasing Brahimi’s first ever patisserie with French bakery classics such as house baked croissants, sweet and savoury brioche, pastries, classic tarts, sandwiches, tartines, a croque monsieur, and even some salads. The bistro will also exclusively serve a full selection of Iggy’s bread, from the baguettes to the loaves (this is the only place outside of Bronte one can get their hands on this celebrated sourdough).
“I have been dreaming of opening one of my Bistros in Sydney for years”, said Brahimi. “I think what we have created is unique in this city – it’s an elegant room, but still a fun, classic bistro from the bar to the patisserie. I hope people will want to pop in for a croissant and coffee in the morning, a classic tartine or cheese souffle for lunch, and then a perfect steak frites with a great bottle of wine at night”.
To achieve that blend of elegance and fun, renowned international designer Blainey North has created a sophisticated interior inspired by the peaceful Belle Époque era in Parisian culture, making use of brass features, wood panelling, timber flooring, and duck blue banquettes. Custom designed chandeliers illuminate walls decorated with photographic works by London-based artist Julian Marshall in the main and private dining rooms to complete the picture of old world French luxury.
Bistro Guillaume
Address: 259 George Street, Sydney
Website: http://bistroguillaumesydney.com.au/
Hours: Monday-Fri 7am-10:30am (breakfast), 11:45am-3pm (lunch), 5pm-8pm (dinner); Sat dinner only.
Images supplied and credited to Nikki To.
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