Le Comptoir

Great Ocean Road-tripping? Make a pitstop at this all-day deli and diner to fuel up French-style. Early birds will find just-delivered croissants and simple sandwiches.

Pared back lunches – perhaps cornichon-studded pork rillettes on warm shards of baguette – are best taken on the sun-drenched deck with a glass of chablis and the company of fellow diners as ebullient as the Frenchmen nimbly running the show.

By night, as Le Comptoir’s golden glow makes it a beacon, more decadent dishes take centre stage. Sumptuous cassoulet is made for feasting, crowned by confit duck that cuts with a butter knife. The liquid inner of a dark chocolate lava cake ensures the dessert lives up to its name. Don’t ignore the glass cabinet flush with French cheeses, ready for holiday house supplies.

Good to know: Le Comptoir Bakehouse is the team’s new bakery offshoot just down the road.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.