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The best of French fare in Oz
Julia Child once said, “In France, cooking is a serious art form and a national sport”. French cuisine has long been celebrated the world over – it can be extravagant and provincial, flamboyant or plain.
Above all, however, French cooking is known for its refined techniques and utter respect for every ingredient. Whether it’s a traditional peasant dish of French onion soup, a luxurious duck confit or a perfectly crafted macaron, every dish shines by highlighting a passion for food that’s uniquely French.
Food is infused in the essence of life in France. People shop daily for fresh ingredients (there’s no such thing as a big weekly shop), weaving in and out of the boulangerie, pâtisserie, charcuterie, fromagerie and the many other specialty food stores that sell ingredients for the day’s meals. Cuisine changes regionally, as well as seasonally, but the impeccable quality of ingredients never wavers.
France is home to some of the most highly regarded fine-dining establishments in the world, but, more than anything, the French see food as a pleasure to be enjoyed with family and friends. In France, the terms “low fat” or ‘”diet” are seldom uttered. There is only eating less. It is part of their admirable joie de vivre attitude; their lust for life.
Bonjour, Australia!
Thankfully, you don’t have to book a plane ticket to embrace this attitude. There are plenty of world-class French food experiences on offer right here in Australia. We’ve selected some of the best from each state, so why not judge them for yourself? From truffle hunting in WA to cherry picking in SA, this guide will open your eyes (and tastebuds) to the many mouth-watering possibilities right on your doorstep. And it’s not all about imported French ingredients. Many Australian producers are making French-style artisan products that are equally as good (if not better). These are only a sample of what is on offer, so please feel free to add your own favourites by commenting on this article.
As Julia Child also said, “Dining with one's friends and beloved family is certainly one of life's primal and most innocent delights, one that is both soul satisfying and eternal”. So, gather your loved ones and cook up a French-inspired feast made with quality seasonal ingredients. Vive la France!
Thank you to Vincent Giradin, Lucy Barbour, Jane Hann, Chris Sheppard, Daniel Talmont and the French Speaking Circle of the North Shore, Fiona McManus and The Alliance Francaise. Thanks also to the book Finding France in Australia (Matheson Publishing) by Alison Patience and Sally Matheson.
Explore France at home
- New South Wales
- Australian Capital Territory
- Victoria
- Tasmania
- South Australia
- Western Australia
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
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