An arson attack on the iconic France-Soir bistro in South Yarra, Melbourne, is being investigated by police as part of an extortion plot. The fire, which occurred in the early hours of April 23, 2026, caused significant damage to the restaurant's interior.
Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad confirmed they are treating the incident as suspicious and are exploring links to an extortion demand made against the business. No injuries were reported, but the bistro, a Melbourne institution for over 30 years, remains closed.
Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area around 2:00 AM to come forward. The investigation is ongoing.
