There’s a plump new arrival on the Bugis dining scene — and he’s bringing butter, boldness and a whole lot of French soul. Opening the week of 16 June 2025, The Plump Frenchman is the latest culinary creation by Zouk Group, marking their first foray into French cuisine. Part brasserie, part cheeky love letter to comfort food, this new 70-seater eatery promises diners an experience that’s indulgent yet entirely approachable.
Say Bonjour to Feel-Good French Fare
Helmed by Michelin-decorated Chef Lorenz Hoja, The Plump Frenchman is all about unpretentious, heartwarming French dishes served with a smile. A veteran of Joël Robuchon’s kitchens in London, Paris and Singapore, Chef Hoja brings refined technique to rustic favourites — with a flair that’s both soulful and slightly irreverent.
“I want to bring back the joy of slow meals, shared plates, and food made with real heart,” says Hoja. “French food doesn’t need to be stiff or fussy. It should be delicious, generous, and comforting.”
And comfort is indeed the name of the game. Think slow-roasted Demi Poulet Rôtisserie (S$17++) paired with pickles and sriracha for a tangy kick, or Coq Au Vin (S$37++), a red wine-braised stew rich with bacon, mushroom and carrot. The sharing-style menu starts at just S$13++, making it surprisingly affordable for a French meal in the city.
The interiors are a charming mix of old-world Parisian bistro and contemporary cool — warm wood, curved marble counters, cane-backed chairs, and tiled floors set the mood for long, laughter-filled meals. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a celebratory dinner, the ambience caters to both intimacy and buzz.
Located just two minutes from Bugis MRT, The Plump Frenchman is perfectly poised for weekday lunches, casual dinners or leisurely weekend indulgence. For those looking for a value-for-money set, the Menu de Canut (available Monday to Saturday) is an ode to Lyon’s 19th-century silk weavers, offering two- to four-course meals from just S$25++.
Start with Chipirons (S$16++) — tender baby squid stuffed with chorizo, parsley and garlic, then brightened with lemon. For something traditional, the deeply caramelised Soupe à l’Oignon (S$18++) hits the spot, its savoury warmth offset by golden croutons and black pepper.
And when it’s time for something sweet, don’t miss the Tiramisu au Citron (S$11++). It’s a playful twist on the Italian classic, swapping out espresso for zesty lemon syrup and layering it with airy mascarpone and delicate ladyfingers — a fittingly light and citrusy end to a rich meal.
Zouk Group has long been known for its creative approach to lifestyle and entertainment, and The Plump Frenchman is a natural progression of its food and beverage evolution. Following the success of KORIO and the continued expansion of Five Guys in the region, this new brasserie cements Zouk Group’s position as a serious F&B player in Singapore’s competitive dining landscape.
CEO Andrew Li sums it up best: “As a French food lover, this restaurant is a passion project — it blends the convivial energy of Zouk with the soulful traditions of French cooking. It’s wholesome, playful and full of personality.”
The Plump Frenchman
Guoco Midtown II
20 Tan Quee Lan Street #01-20,
Singapore 188107
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm; Sunday: 11.30am – 3pm
