An intimate fine-dining experience
The Legacy of The French Café (EST. 1981)
The French Café is an independently owned fine dining restaurant in Symonds Street, Auckland, with a rich history spanning four owners and four decades. Owned by Sid and Chand Sahrawat, The French Cafe offers fresh, seasonal New Zealand ingredients presented with Sid’s modern flair. Both à la carte and tasting menu options are available.
Sid is supported by Head Chef Tommy Hope and Restaurant Manager, Matthew Aitchison.
As well as our a la carte dining, The French Cafe offers multiple private areas, including The Cellar, The Conservatory and The French Kitchen. These are ideal for entertaining large groups such as weddings and other private events.
Cuisine Good Food Guide 24/25
“Within this sparse, clean dining space, with Scandinavian-style décor, eight tables are set for a journey in inventive eating, chaperoned by staff who know the meaning of smooth, professional service and a very knowledgeable sommelier who can suggest a match that will capture the imagination of any wine enthusiast, plus there’s a great selection of speciality spirits. Expect unexpected combinations on the tasting menu. Our evening kicked off with generous cubes of raw Ruakākā kingfish served crudo style with kiwifruit, jalapeño, sorrel and coconut. Dry-aged duck was faultless: a simple but effective dish where the well-aged duck had great texture against luscious prunes and a crunchy macadamia wafer. Rounding up the evening another original of parsnip ice cream on a bed of dark-chocolate balls with black pepper miso crumble. Our advice? Go see Sid if you want to dine beyond the ordinary..”
GAGGENAU TEST KITCHEN
The Gaggenau Tuesday Test Kitchen is a monthly Test kitchen series offering innovative off menu dishes designed and delivered by chef Sid Sahrawat and his team. Our restaurant’s collaboration with the luxury German kitchen appliance brand Gaggenau continues.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY
A wonderful experience from start to finish - we all greatly enjoyed our Saturday champagne lunch here. Warm and personable greeting at the door from FOH, followed by a brief tour of their impressive premises before being escorted to our table. Every course was creative and interesting, but most importantly delicious. Great wines too, and impeccable service. Difficult to fault and we look forward to returning!
Vinesh Nair
2023I selected Sid at The French cafe as my wedding venue. Maria who helps us to organize the wedding event from the very beginning to the end. She did amazing customer service and also she is so thoughtful for our wedding. All my guest really enjoy the environment and also the food! Definitely go back in important event and have a decent dinner.
Joanna Weekends
2023One of my best fine dining experiences in life. Every dish was such a gem.Food
Robert Bruckner
2023Simply amazing, best food and best service we have experienced in a very long time.Food
Matthew Murphy
2023We are here last night for the first time expecting great food. What we received was exceptional! We were blown away with every bite. The staff were amazing. Service levels incredible. If you haven't tried here before you must. Thanks for a great night French Cafe