Claribeaux to serve up a slice of Paris for Bastille Day

AWARD-WINNING French fusion restaurant Claribeaux will roll out the red, white and bleu next weekend for a Bastille Day celebration that promises to bring a slice of Paris to the Bellarine.

In honour of France’s national day, the Curlewis venue will host a decadent three-course feast on July 14, with guests invited to choose from a curated menu inspired by classic French flavours.

“It’s a really festive night,” general manager Tim Harris said, promising a celebration of “all things French”.

“The atmosphere in the dining room is going to be really fun. Everyone gets in the spirit; we dress up the place, wish everyone a bonne fête – as the French say – and really celebrate the cuisine and the culture.

“We’ll be pulling some delicious French wines from the cellar, opening those on the day, and then [guests will] be treated to a three-course dinner with the option of a roaming cheese course.

“For something super traditional [the] quail roulade, the entrée, will be delicious, and then a really traditional spiced duck breast for the main, would be the standout for me. You can’t go past the tarte tatin [for dessert], especially on a cold winter’s night.”

He advises potential diners to book early because the dinner “will sell out” and to not skip the traditional “Chariot de Fromage” selection of roaming French cheeses.

The event forms part of the month-long Tastes of Greater Geelong festival, held until July 20.

This year’s festival will feature more than 80 events, spanning venues across the municipality, from Armstrong Creek and Corio to Portarlington, with a spotlight on the array of international cuisines available in Geelong.

For more information, to view the event’s full menu or to purchase tickets, head to claribeaux.com.au