Le Bistro, La Plage: French Beachside Lunch
Step into a Sunday afternoon of refined dining with ‘Le Bistro, La Plage’ – a French bistro-inspired lunch set on the sand for a relaxed yet elegant coastal experience.
Leading the culinary experience are Chef Ben Williamson, one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and the visionary behind his highly anticipated The French Exit, and Chef Ben Cross of Bali’s renowned Bar Vera. Together, they’ll craft a menu of vibrant, contemporary dishes that showcase the bold flavours and sophistication of French and coastal cuisine—a collaboration not to be missed.
Accompany your meal with a curated selection of premium beverages from our festival partners, perfectly matched to the menu. With the gentle backdrop of the waves, this is a Sunday lunch designed for exceptional flavours, fine company, and the subtle beauty of the beach.
Chef Ben Cross ~ Bar Vera, Bali
Bringing his signature approach of elevated simplicity, Chef Benjamin Cross is set to impress at this beachside lunch. As Co-owner and Executive Chef of Brett Hospitality Group, he leads the culinary vision behind some of Bali’s most celebrated dining destinations, including Mason (Bali + Japan) and Bar Vera.
Originally from New South Wales, Ben’s career has taken him across the world, refining his skills in acclaimed kitchens such as MG Garage, XO, and Rockpool under culinary icons like Janni Kyritsis and Neil Perry. His journey also includes time at renowned establishments in New York and Spain, before making his mark in Bali, where he played a key role in shaping the dining experience at KU DE TA and its fine-dining concept, Mejeakwi.
Bar Vera draws inspiration from the new generation of european wine bars & bistros, incorporating classic technique & produce driven food with a subtle influence from the local region.
Chef Ben Williamson ~ The French Exit, Brisbane
Chef Ben Williamson brings a wealth of experience and creativity to this French-bistro inspired lunch.
Having worked in top restaurants across Perth, Sydney, Bahrain, and Brisbane, Ben has developed a deep appreciation for global culinary traditions while crafting his own distinctive style. As a founding director of Anyday hospitality group, he also leads the kitchens at some of Brisbane’s most celebrated venues, including Biànca, hôntô, and sAme sAme.
For Ben, flavour is always the priority, and his dishes are a reflection of careful technique, balance, and a respect for produce. His expertise and passion for creating exceptional dining experiences make him an exciting addition to the chef lineup for this year’s festival.