Bastille Day is the time to celebrate liberté, égalité, fraternité (liberty, equality, fraternity) – something best done while eating all the French food and drinking all the French wine, of course! Although Melbourne has claimed itself as ‘the Paris of the south’, there are still loads of ways to celebrate 14 July right here in the capital. Here’s what I’ll be getting up to:
“Manger” – To eat
Flute Bakery
Tucked away in Fyshwick, The Flute Bakery and Patisserie is one of my favourite places to go for delicious pastries, tarts, and quiches. To celebrate Bastille Day, I would recommend trying a macaron (or five) or perhaps the profiterole gateau.
Croissant D’or
This little corner-shop in the civic interchange is seriously underrated, and definitely worth looking out for if you’re in that part of the city. You really can’t go wrong with the French classics from here: the croissants, eclairs, macarons, and petit fours are all delicious. If you’re looking for something a little more special, Croissant D’or is celebrating the 14th by selling mini croquembouche.
“Boire” – To drink (and dine)
Les Bistronomes
Les Bistronomes truly is a little slice of Paris in Braddon. The décor, ambience, staff, and menu all provide a lovely French-filled evening. A special Bastille Day menu is available on the website, along with a great list of wines – because if you don’t drink wine on Bastille Day, can you even say that you celebrated it? Of course not! Luckily, Les Bistronomes has Canberra covered, and don’t forget to leave space for dessert.
Buvette
Located at Hotel Realm, Buvette is all about a love of French culture, dining and traditions. If you’re hoping to celebrate Bastille Day in a way that’s a little fancier, Buvette is definitely the place to go. French classics on the menu include bouillabaisse, beef bourguignon and escargots, along with an extensive wine list including a collection of sparkling, white, rosé and red wines to choose from.
“Faire” – To do
Bastille Day Party
If the 14 July passes by and you feel like you haven’t had a chance to truly celebrate, the Alliance Française de Canberra is hosting a Bastille Day Party at Mount Majura Vineyard on Saturday 16 July. The event page promises an afternoon of fine wine, beautiful music, and delicious cheese.
“Porter” – To wear
For the ladies, bust out the red lips, striped shirts, and ballet flats. The combination is chic and effortless – very Parisienne. For the guys, make sure you wear your best tailored jacket, along with a looped scarf or cravat to emulate the perfect French gentleman.
