Montreal Southwest borough’s Saint-Henri, has changed drastically over the past few years. For better or worse, gentrification has brought about a number of new restaurants and bars, some of which have already become city favorites.
Whether you are feeling adventurous or wanting to impress a Tinder date, here are 5 safe bets in Saint-Henri.
A neighborhood landmark, this bar serves comfort food with a twist (butternut squash risotto with walnut espuma, anyone?). Like Ariane, from Julius+Valentina, go to Ludger between 5 and 7, for half price on oysters –any day of the week. Pair them with bubbly wine, or with a Ludger (balsamic bitter, China China, calvados and lemon). Watch out, this could become a classic!
4001 Notre-Dame Street W
Located in an old bank building, Loïc is the new kid on the block. When you go, share a bottle (the cocktails are delicious, too!) of natural wine, or try one of the four mains, sometimes prepared with ingredients freshly picked by the chef himself. Even “Stay Home Club” founder Olivia Mew refused to miss out!
5001 Notre-Dame Street W
Find them at Atwater market in the summertime, and on Notre-Dame Street when fall rolls around – either way, the vibe is laid-back and pleasant at Satay Brothers. Take a cue from Charline Marie Garcia, and share a Singaporean meal under the gleaming red lanterns, while treating yourself to some beer Lao (hello, six-pack!), or a private import wine bottle. Laksa (chili, coconut and shrimp soup) is one of their specialties.
3721 Notre-Dame Street W
Latest addition to the Joe Beef and Liverpool House family, Vin-Papillon offers a daily chalkboard menu with an emphasis on vegetables. Urbainecity’s Marie-Noel opted for shared dishes, while relying on the staff for wine pairing, and was pleasantly surprised (the wine list is filled with off the beaten path options). Try going early, as the restaurant has a no-reservation policy.
2519 Notre-Dame Street W
Open for about 5 years, Tuck Shop has become a Montreal staple. The daily market-based menu by chef and co-owner Theo Lerikos is shared before each night’s service via social media. His go to ingredients? Chili, lemon and fresh herbs. Every reason to visit Tuck Shop is a good one, as demonstrated by Instagrammer Sandra Heintz, who celebrated her (three week) wedding anniversary there recently!
4662 Notre-Dame Street W
What’s your favorite address in Saint-Henri? Let us know in the comments!