Third-generation restaurateurs Nathalie , Edouard and Antoine Reymond (Bistro Gitan , L’Hotel Gitan) will launch Frédéric on 23 September.
Plans for the all-day European dining precinct in the Melbourne suburb of Cremorne were revealed in May.
“We are excited to come to Cremorne with our third venue,” said Antoine Reymond at the time. “It will be a different concept, incorporating what we have learnt over the years and developing something new and fresh for this thriving suburb. Bringing an all-day European dining experience, we’re excited to work with so many vibrant businesses and a number of new residential developments in the area.”
The concept is composed of two adjacent but separate venues with individual food offerings designed by head chef Nick Deligiannis (Petit Tracteur) in collaboration the Reymonds.
Frédéric will deliver a modern European menu with dishes from France, Spain and Italy. Steak will be the focus, complemented by a menu of six seasonal specials including Archies Creek veal tartare, pine nut cream, pickled shallot, mushroom tapioca cracker; rock flathead ceviche, dill, confit sweet potato, Alhambra Farm leaves; sweet corn madeleine, blue swimmer crab, espelette pepper; manchego millefeuille, olive emulsion, fresh celery; and snapper a la plancha, zucchini puree, dried tomato, fish bacon, roasted swede.
At the neighbouring Fred’s Bar, morning coffees will be paired with fresh pastries and selection of European breakfast specials. From 11am diners can graze on an all-day menu of small plates such as house-cured seafood, minute steaks, pasta and more.
Edouard Reymond and beverage mangaer Tim O’Donnell have worked together on the contemporary wine list, which features European and Australian drops. A carefully selected range of bottled craft beers will be on offer with two available on tap.
The Reymonds have again collaborated with SJB Interiors (L’Hotel Gitan) to design a venue that emulates French new-wave style. Rattan chairs and antique mirrors soften exposed concrete walls, with old-world glamour infused by way of maroon and pale green leather upholstery. The terrace’s heritage-listed brick facade has been retained.
Frédéric will open from 11am to 3pm for lunch with dinner from 5pm until late, while Fred’s Bar will welcome guests from 7am to late.
Photography: Peter Dillon