Bon Ap: A New Take on French Dining

Bon Ap stands apart from most French restaurants in town. While steak frites and French onion soup are on the menu, you won’t find any waistcoated staff here.

A French Trio Behind the Vision

Owners Damien Desbois (from Brittany), Francoise Lowe (Arcachon), and Sebastien Carmona (Toulouse) aim to show Melbourne what contemporary French dining looks like. In essence, this means a relaxed atmosphere that sits somewhere between a bar and a neighbourhood bistro.

Casual, Clever Cooking

Chef Arnaud Mallet, another expat, keeps things simple. Early in the day, you’ll find croissants, toasted sandwiches, and sweet and savoury waffles. Later, the menu features charcuterie and snacks like olives and pickled vegetables.

From Tartare to Crème Brûlée

If you’re staying for a full meal, there are several seafood dishes, steak tartare, and coq au vin—some of which may be offered in one of the two set menus. Desserts include cheese or crème brûlée.

Small Cellar, Big Focus

The wine list is equally small due to budget limitations, focusing primarily on wines from France’s major regions. The rest of the selection comes from Australian vineyards.