Montreal's Gastronome's Journey: A Tour of the City's Finest French Fare

2024-03-12

Embark on a culinary adventure through Montreal, where French gastronomic delights await at every corner, from authentic creperies to exquisite seafood establishments.

1. P'tit Plateau

Upon setting foot in Montreal's P'tit Plateau, I was immediately enveloped in a French culinary embrace. This intimate BYOB gem on Marie-Anne Street is the epitome of bistro charm, offering a menu sprinkled with Parisian elegance. Each dish serves as a flavor-packed voyage, particularly the succulent braised lamb shank and the decadently airy 'ile-flottante'. Despite service pacing akin to a leisurely Seine river cruise, causing occasional cutlery-related musings, the enchanting cuisine more than compensates. The return journey, beckoned by the siren song of their crunchy praline with dark chocolate, is assuredly on my horizon. A visit here is a Parisian experience sans airfare, though a dash of patience – or a spare fork – wouldn’t go amiss.

Location: 330 Marie-Anne St E, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1B1, Canada

2. Chez Delmo

Chez Delmo's arrival on my culinary radar was marked with an impression as grand as the seafood they masterfully present. Tucked away on Notre-Dame St W, this restaurant has rightfully earned its stellar reputation. Splurging over $100 here feels like an investment with remarkable returns, expressed through the artistry of their cuisine. The bonus oyster atop my order felt like a charming nod to ‘baker's dozen’ generosity. Staff, brisk as martinis at happy hour, matched the restaurant's sparkling atmosphere and doled out complimentary appetizers with discerning grace. This family-owned gem, a sanctuary for seafood purists, will undoubtedly see me return for another round of fine dining and familial laughter.

Location: 275 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1T8, Canada

3. gaZette

In the pulsing heart of Montreal, gaZette stands as a beacon of Quebecois culinary tradition albeit with an inconsistent delivery. A festive dinner there could be a symphony of service and flavor, in stark contrast to a breakfast buffet that failed to sing. The dichotomy between offerings like the lackluster rotisserie chicken and an underwhelming chocolate lava cake versus a flawless Caesar salad and a highly attentive bar service makes gaZette a study in extremes. While some meals fell short of expectations, others soared with gusto. Patrons are advised to target their evening service, which tends to showcase the kitchen’s true capabilities, ideally in Barbara's capable hands. I find myself inclined to return for the dinner highs but will leave the breakfast lows to explore elsewhere.

Location: 270 Rue Saint-Antoine O, Montréal, QC H2Z 1H5, Canada

4. Breizh Café

Along the bustling St Laurent Blvd lies Breizh Café, your portal to the soul of Brittany in a crepe. Delight in the savory whispers of buckwheat galettes or indulge in a sugary crepe, a sweetness that may challenge the faint of heart. This creperie's authenticity is enhanced by its eclectic decor and amicable staff, ensuring a dining experience comingled with great value. While the Atlantic brunch may yearn for an extra splash of the ocean and the chocolate duo crepe could share more of its heart, the unwavering commitment to Breton tradition – and laudable vegetarian options – make it a heavy-hitter for an authentic gastronomic indulgence. Would I revisit for another crepe sensation? In the spirit of Brittany, you bet I would!

Location: 3991 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1Y4, Canada

5. Le Rendez-Vous du Thé

At Le Rendez-Vous du Thé, the encounter transcends dining to become an eclectic cultural spectacle. Whether it’s Beatles night or tender love songs, the venue harmonizes its gastronomy with live performances. The Salade de Confit de Canard is not merely a dish but a French sonnet made edible, complemented by the warmth of the surrounding ambiences. Here, a meal is a show with Chef as conductor and 'kind George' garnering accolades for impeccable service. With pricing conducting a range from gentle melodies to grand arias, the affair is entrancing, justifying every dollar. For those yearning for a soiree of Parisian tea-inspired dishes accompanied by soul-stirring music, make Le Rendez-Vous du Thé your next stop. An encore? Indubitably. And for a night dipped in romance, don’t forget to bring a companion.

Location: 1348 Rue Fleury E, Montreal, Quebec H2C 1R3, Canada