It has the perfect location – on the promenade of the Brisbane waterfront. French Martini is a bistro and a menu that would satisfy everyone.

The French have an innate sense of style that always adds a touch of sophistication to every occasion, and French Martini is no exception. Pretty in pink, this locale is adorned with stylish leather armchairs, an eye-catching mural, and bowls laden with fresh fruit that line the bar. All the waitstaff and chefs were speaking French, which added a touch a sexiness to the whole dining experience.

Amuse Bouche

The amuse bouche was what we have ordered as an appetiser – snails in garlic butter. Not exactly an amusing start to the dinner. I had to ask the waitress if this was it, the escargot we ordered. She smiled and explained this was the amuse bouche. Hmmm, make’s one wonder if they were left over.

Parfait de canard

Duck parfait, caramelised onion jam, spiced apple, baguette

That’s a lot of pate for one serving. And whole baguette with the pate, there’s not much room if you finished everything in one sitting. Definitely designated for large group sharing.

Escargot Provençal

Snails in garlic butter, parsley and baguette

While the amuse bouche was served cold, we were glad this was served piping hot. The melted garlic butter was perfect with the baguette.

Grilled prawns with citrus salad

Not outstanding, regretted ordering it. (PS: luckily they took it out of their menu too.)

Steak Tartare

Finely diced raw eye fillet, cornichons, red onion, capers, petit salad

The beef was dressed with EVOO with salt and pepper for flavours, very simple. The gg you and the rest of the condiments were then mixed by yourself depending on how much capers or shallots you want. Good for one or two bites, then it gets tired.

Steamed Mussels

Steamed mussels, white wine, eschallots, baguette

This is 1/2 kg of mussels, very fresh.

Duck á l’Orange

Famous confit duck, orange jus, ratatouille, gratin

The only main course that we ordered, the duck confit was dried out and the accompanying sides were quite disappointing.

Afterwards

The web reviews were divided about the quality of the food and the service. But because so many people have tried them, I would leave you to judge. It has the naturally of advantage of location. It’s food on my visit was OK, not outstanding, but OK. The price was reasonable for a tourist attraction, and the service, again for our visit, was good. If there’s one fault, I would wish they give me another amuse bouche.

Not sure where to find this hidden gem? Just look for the pink sign with a girl in a martini glass, of course!

French Martini Bistro & Bar
Shop 6, Little Stanley Street, 4101, South Brisbane (QLD), Australia
Tel : +61 7 3844 5541

http://www.frenchmartini.com.au/

Date Visited : Nov 2014