We are coming to Montreal this fall for 3 nights/4 days. We love good food. It is the central focus when we travel. Can be high end or no frills, as long as the quality is there. We have been (years ago) to Joe Beef, APDC and L’Express.
We are thinking for dinners:
Beba
Vin Mon Lapin
Cabaret L’Enfer (vs Bouillon Bilk if they are re-opened, but leaning towards C L’E).
Lunches:
Juliette Plaza
Jean Talon Market
Maybe Toque? Still worth going to?
_____ Please recommend! (We have been to Schwartz’s).
Any must-visit places for coffee or pastry or breakfast is very appreciated! As is any recommendation for lunch in Vermont on the way back to southern New England (having dinner at HOTW on the way up).
Staying at Hotel William Gray (unless someone says this is to be avoided and somewhere else should be booked).
Thank you so much in advance! I will be sure to report back.
I would go with Cabaret L’Enfer over Bouillon Bilk. Both are quite good but I think CL is more refined and better value. Although you can easily spend much more than BB.
I normally dont miss Ma Poule Mouillée for Portuguese chicken
For lunch in Vermont, depends somewhat on at what point in your journey you want to stop! These are all relatively close to I-89 so not big detours from the route - in Burlington, I’d suggest Grey Jay (sister restaurant to Honey Road); in Waterbury, Prohibition Pig (barbecue); in Montpelier, Wilaiwan’s Kitchen (Thai); in White River, Tuckerbox (Turkish).
I second Le Filet, had a fantastic meal there a few years ago and would definitely return. L’Express is a Montreal institution with classic dishes and a fun vibe, always sit at the bar. I was supposed to dine there last summer, until my hotel/apartment screwed up my reservation and I had to cancel.
I’ve always wanted to try it, but for some reason never made it there.
Now I’m thinking about a “weekend” in Montreal next year since the CAD is so weak rn.
Thank you so much - I will look into this perhaps for lunch.
I would like to give Juliette Plaza a shot for lunch as well.
I’m on the fence about Toque, or if it has past its’ moment…
Beba always looks great online. I would probably keep Beba. It’s on my wishlist.
I have only been to Toqué once. It was very good, even excellent. I don’t think it’s past it’s prime. There are so many places to try, that’s the main reason I haven’t returned to Toqué and Le Club Chasse et Pêche.
I prefer smaller and less formal places, typically. Toqué, atmosphere-wise, isn’t my favourite kind of place in Montreal.