Head to LoLuk Bistro for an authentic slice of Southern France in the cosy location on Bourke Street.
Inspired by their mother’s culinary talent, the two French brothers, Luc and Loic, set out to provide Sydney with an authentic dining experience offering classic French cuisine. And with their 10 years of international experience in the food and beverage industry, it is no surprise they have done both their mother and home country proud with their creation of LoLuk Bistro.
A quaint sandstone abode, with a porch covered by an awning, provides a humble and unassuming front for LoLuk Bistro on Bourke Street.
Step inside though for that distinctly cosy and authentic French feel. The thick French accents of the staff and classical French music will have you believe you’re in Southern France, not Surry Hills. Though slightly hidden, the space also features a charming outdoor area, but first you will need to pass the not so charming kitchen dishes to get there.
The menu is filled with classic French dishes, some with a modern twist. For entrées you’ll find options such as a traditional Onion Nicoise tart ($16) with anchovies, black olives and caramelised onions on a crumbly base, and the Burrata cheese with seasoned tomato and pesto ($22).
Sharing plates are also offered, with your choice of Charcuterie plate ($24/36) or Provencal Antipasti ($22/34). They come as a great option if you want a lighter, more casual dining experience.
For mains try the slow cooked lamb shoulder ($34) with eggplant caviar, sundried tomatoes and kalamata olives for a perfectly tender lamb which falls off the bone. Other mains include pink duck breast ($36), beef eye filet ($39) and fish of the day ($32). Whilst they have a higher price tag, you do get what you pay for, and that is culinary delight thanks to the expertise of the chef.
A few basic sides are offered to accompany your meals. Think straw chips ($8), rocket salad ($8) and the iconic French dish, Nicoise Ratatoutille ($8).
On the dessert menu you’ll find more classic dishes with recommended drinks to match. You can’t go wrong with an option like profiteroles ($16). This French choux pastry, vanilla ice cream, salted caramel and hot chocolate sauce, is recommended to pair with Jurancon ($16).
Then there are the classics with a modern twist, like the pineapple and rosemary souffle with coconut sorbet ($18), recommended to pair with Perrier Jouet Brut ($22). Although these experimental flavours of pineapple and rosemary didn’t quite work in our eyes, the perfected soft and fluffy texture managed to still make it enjoyable. For a more savoury finish, in classic French style, they also offer a cheese platter ($22/34), recommending it to be paired with Crozes Hermistage ($19).
Their weeknight specials are also giving us a reason to venture out for a mid-week meal. On offer is a very enticing all-you-can-eat raclette every Tuesday and Wednesday 6pm-10pm for $49 per person, with profiteroles for dessert. And all-you-can-eat Moules Frites (Mussels and Fries) for $29 per person every Thursday 6pm- 10pm.
Opening hours:
Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday 6pm- 10pm
Lunch: Friday and Saturday, 12pm- 2:30pm