La Madrague

Ph: (03) 9699 9627; 171 Buckhurst St, South Melbourne 3205

French, $$ +
Open Lunch: Tue-Fri noon-3pm, Dinner: Mon-Sat 6.30-11pm; Licensed; AE, BC, DC, MC, V, Seats inside 45

Mietta's Review
A restaurant which is satisfying to all, to its customers who know what to expect. Founders, Annie and Jacques Heraudeau after nearly 30 years sold in 2002. The new owners, Alain Blanc and Leisa Campbell, are carrying on much as before. There are a few new dishes and some old favourites remain. This is a living business and it serves its clientele very well. Traditional French flavours and service which is friendly and correct.

Other published opinions

Herald Sun Bob Hart 14/5/05 "A new team of Alain Blanc, who had begun cooking in Melbourne about the time La Madrague had opened, and his young partner Leisa Campbell, who had chalked up some major credits in the UK and the US, took over. They gave the place a facelift and imposed their formidable gifts on the menu, but without reinventing the wheel."

The Age Good Food Guide 2005 "it has been a fixture in this quiet, development-free part of South Melbourne for more than 25 years. Alain Blanc and Leisa Campbell are only the second owners in this romantic red-brick restaurant's long history, and they have done well in preserving its essential charm, while introducing some interesting menu changes."

AGFG 2004, score 13/20

The Age, Epicure, Espresso, 4/2/03, John Lethlean. Jacques and Annie Heradeau have sold the restaurant to chefs Leisa Campbell and Alain Blanc.

Herald Sun, Weekend, Eat, Bob Hart, 7/9/02, "In a world that worships change, there's much to be said for stability."

The Age, Sundaylife, Eatstreets, 7/7/02, Dani Valent, "A classic French restaurant. $14.50 for a bouwl of excellent fish soup."