Smith St Bistrot

Smith St Bistrot brings a French bistro sensibility to 300 Smith Street in Collingwood, with Scott Pickett’s take on the style shaped by Melbourne’s eclectic inner north and wider European dining influences. It is open seven days and invites guests to drop in for a drink or book a table for a more substantial meal. The menu moves from small bites and shared plates through to a five-course chef’s degustation, making the venue suitable for anything from a casual drink to a longer dinner.

The food is rooted in classic French technique, with a broad choice of dishes across snacks, entrées, mains, sides, desserts and cheese. Standouts named on the menu include natural oysters, chicken liver parfait with brioche and onion jam, Burgundy snails with parsley purée and Pernod butter, and roast chicken with peas, cos and bacon. Larger options include steak au poivre with Sher Wagyu rostbiff, mushroom duxelle and green peppercorn sauce, while the côte de boeuf is served with béarnaise and fries. For dessert, the list includes crème caramel, cherry clafoutis and a chocolate soufflé, with a 20-minute wait noted for the soufflé.

Wine is a central part of the offering. The list focuses on organic, sustainable, natural and biodynamic wines made with a hands-off approach, sourced from Australia and overseas. There are wines by the glass alongside cocktails and alcohol-free options, so the drinks list can work for a full meal, a pre-dinner visit or a midweek catch-up. Wednesdays are designated as BYO, and the website also promotes French classics on Tuesdays throughout winter.

The venue’s private dining room, La Vie En Rose, is presented as a jazz lounge for Les Nuits de Jazz, giving the space a distinct musical and evening-dining angle. Private dining is also available for a soirée or group occasion. With its classic French menu, extensive wine focus, chef’s degustation and private-room events, Smith St Bistrot is well suited to date nights, celebrations, shared dinners and diners looking for a Collingwood restaurant with a strong French identity. Bookings are available through the venue.