A truly memorable trip

The 411

Up in Outremont on Bernard Avenue you will find a truly unique place with one of the nicest terraces that any breakfast place has to offer. This nice little place is squeezed between a bunch of other terraces but Cafe Souvenirs is definitely the one you should try, and while you’re at it don’t miss out on the food.

At 1st glance

When you walk up to the Cafe Souvenirs you automatically get drawn into its warm atmosphere and attention to detail which is one the many things that makes it unique. Although I will likely mention the terrace another 2 times, I really suggest you enjoy a seat on it since there is nothing quite like it on a sunny afternoon. The attention to detail is amazing with small unique things that set it apart. The glass bottles of water on your table are each a different colour and shape (there’s even one that looks like the tower of Pisa) as are the coffee mugs. Inside the cafe the hooks for jackets are actually golf club tops; it sounds odd but it works. One should also note that there is wifi available although don’t be a camper and stay there for 4 hours because line ups form. The main criticism is the lineups; when it’s grey and snowing it’s not an issue, although when the sun is out, there is a big lineup forming for a small amount of tables and the patrons can get aggressive; you have to be on your A game to make sure you get a seat and clearly communicate with the hostess who is often overworked running from table to table. My tip is get there early or get comfy (you can use the park bench nearby). (more…)

Fleury Flourishes

The 411

When I first was introduced to Zagrum I was shocked how such a unique breakfast place would be on Fleury, an area you would not assume had an abundance of good breakfast food.

At 1st glance

At first glance I saw a pretty modern place that did not have that “breakfasty” look to it. Although every time I go I like the clean open area with tables all about, a good view into the kitchen and a nice terrace during the summer. Zagrum is also wheelchair accessible, although the washrooms are not.

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Breakfast on the go

The 411

Often we find ourselves rushing off to work in the morning without the time to eat a real breakfast. I myself value those extra few minutes of sleep, as opposed to sitting down and spending that time fueling up for the rest of the day, so the concept of a real breakfast on the go seemed like an interesting idea so I went off to see how it worked.

At 1st glance

Once you walk in you notice you are a half floor up from the street level, giving you an excellent vantage point for people watching if you wish to sit down and eat. Both the east and west wall have a mural of a black and white photograph of what De Maisoneuve would look like if there was no wall blocking the view. It’s pretty cool and if you look at the west wall you can see a photoshoped license plate with the resto’s name on it. Wrapcity is in essence both a sit down and a to go concept; they also have digital menu boards at the counter with the menu displayed on 3 LCD’s as well as 3 LCD’s on the east and west side showing TV programs. (more…)

A Montreal Institution

The 411

Although located in an unassuming building on the corner of Mont-Royal and St-Urbain, Beauty’s has been a Montreal landmark serving brunch dishes since 1942. Often referred to as the grand daddy of Montreal Brunch eateries, it is simply a spot that you must go to. Even if you are not a fan you need to go just to experience a piece of history and help put into context all other breakfast places.

At 1st glance

From the outside you wonder what is so special about this place as it is very run of the mill and in fact looks a bit run down. But once you spot the line-up trying to squeeze its way into the very tight doorway you quickly figure out not all is as it seems. Once inside (expect a good 25-35 minute wait on weekends) you will be taken back to what can only be described as a living time capsule. The decor is similar to an old style dinner, yet still well kept, the small 2 person banquet seating is quite snug and if you are of ample frame don’t even try it since it will be tight. The short order counter is really cool, but the main thing to notice is what’s posted on the walls. You will find posters for some of their famous smoothies and banana pancakes posters (my fav) and deep in the back under this giant clock with green neon light is a how to build the perfect bagel and cream cheese schematic style poster.

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Take a walk on the North side

The 411

All the way up in the 450, Allo Mon Coco has made itself quite a reputation as a quality breakfast place in Laval. So I made the trek to see what the fuss was all about, and boy was I pleasantly surprised.

At 1st glance

Initially from the outside it does not seem to offer the most impressive but when you walk in it’s a whole other story. Even at 2 P.M. the place is packed and for good reason. Allo Mon Coco serves up some solid food options that will please any appetite. It is important to note that they allow for wheelchair access (no steps at the door) as well as wheelchair accessible washrooms.

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Go West, Life is peaceful there

The 411

While most reviews found on this site will focus on downtown locations, an exception was made for this West side adventure. This decision was based on the recommendation of a friend of mine, and like most things in life… she was right. So, now that props have been given, down to the nitty gritty.

Situated in Pointe-Claire, Déjeuner Cosmopolitain (not to be mistaken with its sister Laval location) welcomes you into what can best be described as a breakfast bonanza. Its menu reads like a grocery list with choices bound to please all who visit. (more…)

Simply the best

The 411

Situated in the heart of the Plateau, L’avenue serves up, arguably, one of the best breakfast/brunch meals in the city. Others may try to imitate but there is no competition, just look at the lineup outside in winter time and you will begin to understand why.

At 1st glance

The minute you walk in you get the idea that this is no ordinary place with its funky design highlighted by a suspended motorcycle hanging over a table. Even the men’s room is made unique with a portion of a fence decorating the inside and red lights illuminating the entire room, not to mention a TV screen with random videos playing. The menu is equally visually stimulating as it looks like a comic book with animation gracing the pages. You could actually spend an hour enjoying the art work of the menu if it wasn’t for the tempting food options that distract you. There are some odd food pairings in their meals, like a burger patty on eggs Benedict… but it works, and quite well at that. (more…)