Noir: French Sophistication with Soul

Noir doesn’t shout for attention — it earns it quietly. Tucked into Toorak Road, this intimate restaurant has become a benchmark for contemporary French dining in Melbourne. Owner and chef Peter Roddy delivers plates that are confident and composed, with a focus on detail that never feels forced. The space itself mirrors the name — moody lighting, crisp linen and soft jazz set the rhythm for a night that feels indulgent but never showy.

The Menu: Technique Meets Heart

The food is unmistakably French but lightened with a modern Australian sensibility. Start with duck liver parfait and toasted brioche, then move to perfectly seared scallops or a main of roast duck with cherry jus. Everything is plated with precision, but it’s the balance of flavour that stands out — bold yet delicate, rich yet clean. The wine list leans French, naturally, but there’s a thoughtful selection of local bottles that play just as elegantly alongside the food.

The Atmosphere: Intimate, Timeless, Effortless

Noir feels like the kind of place you go to celebrate quietly — an anniversary, a milestone, or just a night when you want to feel looked after. Service is polished but personable, the pacing unhurried, and every course feels like a conversation between kitchen and guest. It’s French dining the way it should be — warm, precise and full of heart.