November 9, 2009 – They’re to Montréal what bodegas and delis are to New York, and, for most young Montréalers, where we first learn about cold, hard cash.
Yup, you’ve guessed it: it’s the legendary dépanneur (or simply the “dep”) - the local corner store at the heart of Montréal neighbourhoods. It’s the place to bump into neighbours, get caught up and pick up the essentials (and the local gossip!) in one fell swoop.
One dep in particular has broken the mould: Little Italy’s Le Dépanneur Le Pick-Up is, as per dépanneur tradition, the prime meeting place for area residents and artists. However, in addition to the usual pop, beer, cigarettes and other necessities, it offers diner delicacies such as burgers, fries and deli sandwiches as well as inspired creations such as a veggie Pulled “Pork” sandwich (really!) and an out-of-this-world Grilled Halloumi Sandwich. If that isn’t enough, behind their classic diner counter you’ll find a full-service kitchen that features a four-course menu from guest chefs once a month plus a slew of art exhibitions, concerts, special events, and performance art.
Set in a 1950s building that oozes retro charm, Le Dépanneur Le Pick-Up is all about comfort and personality, from the food to the atmosphere to the décor. It’s a fresh blast from the past of good times at the local dep.
Dépanneur Le Pick-Up
