Bistro X

In the heart of Fitzroy, Bistro X is a modern bistro with a distinctly Melbourne heartbeat. Here, classic French technique meets an easy-going, all-day rhythm, where market-fresh, hyper-seasonal produce sets the pace and a curated wine list keeps step. The room blends Australian creativity with the warmth of a neighbourhood favourite, making it as fitting for morning coffees as it is for a languid supper.

The menu leans into French sensibility without losing its sense of fun. Briny rock oysters are brightened with pink peppercorn and shiso, while duck liver tartelettes arrive delicately dressed with black apple and comté. There is nostalgia in a prawn cocktail and finesse in cured ocean trout with crème fraîche and rye flatbread. Mains glide from sweet corn risotto with milk curds, saffron and pickled sweet pepper to a deeply satisfying wagyu burger with its signature X-rated sauce, maple bacon and cheese, with hand-cut fries dusted in Bistro X seasoning. Broccolini gets a lift from mandarin and smoked almonds.

To finish, a gleaming black forest layers Valrhona chocolate with macerated cherry and chambord chantilly, while apple and rhubarb crumble, with crème fraîche ice cream and anglaise, feels like a warm embrace. Swing by for a long lunch or a late-night nibble, and let good times find their course, after all, in Fitzroy, joie de vivre is always on the menu.