Published on August 5, 2009 – Montréalers like good food, any way and anywhere you serve it. From cozy neighbourhood restaurants to 5-diamond establishments, one of our favourite pastimes is unearthing new places to nibble.
The latest addition to the city’s gastronomic scene is Bar & Bœuf, which recently opened in Old Montréal, with the duo of Alexandre Gosselin (ex-chef of Le Local) and Gerardo Labarca at the helm. The word “bar” in the establishment’s name is actually the French word for “seabass” and “boeuf” is “beef” so think of it as an upscale surf-n-turf which has created quite a buzz among discerning foodies, who go there for of warm elegance and easygoing chic, not to mention the succulent and refined dishes.
Another animal, or bird, we should say, that’s flying high on Montréal’s eatery scene is The Sparrow. Making its nest in Mile End, this new venue offers a cute, hip, delicious and daytime feast, since it’s only open for brunches and lunches (liquor license pending). Its Brit pub-style is already a hit with the hipsters and its affordable prices and original and delish dishes are already conquering hard-to-please palates.
Though Picapica has only recently joined the city’s dining scene, this tapas bar’s delectable blend of flavours from South America, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Asia has been getting lots of word of mouth. A relaxed ambiance, with plenty of finger dishes (to share, of course) makes this place one to keep on your foodie radar.
Over at LaPalme et Raphaël, you’ll feel the Parisian touch when you enter this elegant French bistro which offers up a traditional menu and varied wine list, at prices which won’t hurt your wallet. From breakfast through to dinner, it’s an excellent spot for classic French fare and the relaxed ambiance of its bar sets the mood for a cozy 5 à 7 among friends.
Sophisticated, sleek and very sought-out, the new Apollo Bistro features a concept menu where ingredients change week by week. A new face in the lively neighbourhood of Little Italy, the latest prodigy of chef Giovanni Apollo has already been tantalizing taste buds.
Loranger in Old Montréal has a feminine touch, right down to the decor, thanks to the team of owner Pascale Loranger and chef Sandra Cousillas. While the dishes definitely influenced by French kitchens, they are also inspired by Asian and Mediterranean traditions, treating guest to delicate, textured and aromatic plates of generous portions. The ambiance is refined, design and chic, making it a little slice of dining heaven.
Bon appétit!
Bar & Bœuf
The Sparrow
Picapica
LaPalme & Raphaël
Bistro Apollo Concept
Loranger
