Okay, Brisbane, who told you that you were allowed to be this chic? Because I waltzed into Pompette at The Star thinking I’d get a nice meal and maybe a decent glass of something French. What I got was a whole mood. A romance. A tres chic love letter to my tastebuds. And it all started with a cocktail…
Le Pompette cocktail – I don’t know what’s in it, but I want to be buried with it
Let’s start with the vibe: Pompette has that quintessential French thing going on where it’s intimate and cool without trying. All gorgeous colours, swoony lighting, and interiors so stylish I started rearranging my living room in my head mid-entrée.
But before we talk food (and we will talk food), can we please take a moment for Le Pompette, the house cocktail that arrived like a fragrant purple whisper from heaven? It was gin-based (I think?), with lavender notes, maybe some violet liqueur, and a touch of mystery. It was flirty, fabulous, and so French it probably had its own passport.
Filet en Croûte: I get the hype now, Mr Ramsay
Now, I’ve eaten my fair share of steaks, but never have I ever had boeuf filet en croûte—basically a beef Wellington with a French accent. And folks, it was a revelation. Perfectly cooked (pink, but not nervously pink), wrapped in puff pastry that was golden, flaky perfection. There were mushrooms. There was beef jus. There were actual tears. Okay, not really, but emotionally, yes. I have watched chef after chef struggle with a Wellington on 15 seasons of Hell’s Kitchen while Gordon Ramsay yells at them, and now I GET THE HYPE.
And because Pompette is generous and clearly understands that carbs are love, I got a complimentary side. I chose the green beans with goat cheese and almonds, which were crisp, creamy, and somehow fancy without being fussy.
My dining companion went full Provençal and ordered the roasted lamb shoulder, which was rich, aromatic, and came apart with the gentle nudge of a fork like it had nothing else to do. Her salade verte was one of those simple things that taste expensive—perfectly dressed with French vinaigrette and soft herbs, no sad iceberg in sight.
Mousse dreams and brûlée bliss
Dessert? Oh honey.
I had the Black Forest chocolate mousse—and I am not using hyperbole when I say it was the best I’ve ever had. Airy yet indulgent, with a tangy cherry compote and silky chantilly cream, it was like eating a memory from your most decadent dream. I couldn’t finish (a rare event), and when I asked for it to go, they didn’t just chuck it in a tub—they made me a fresh, mini mousse to take home. What?! Who does that? Pompette does that.
My companion went for the crème brûlée with berries and Biscoff, which she lovingly referred to as “crunchy, creamy, and criminally good.” I stole two spoonfuls. She’s still mad.
Final verdict: c’est magnifique!
Pompette is a full-blown experience. It’s elegance without snobbery, flavour without fuss, and service that makes you feel like royalty but in a “hey bestie” kind of way. Whether you’re a fine-dining regular or just here for the mousse (valid), this is a restaurant you’ll be recommending before you’ve even paid the bill.
Also, Le Pompette cocktail? Still thinking about you.
Pompette, The Star Brisbane, The Terrace, Level 4/33 William St, Brisbane City QLD 4000. p. (07) 2111 6888
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
