Want some beer with those eggs?

The 411

Always known as a popular place for late night drinks, Reservoir recently began to add food options and a brunch menu on weekends. You can still order beer with breakfast, something I’ve always wanted to do, but all drinking jokes aside Reservoir serves up some very original plates and is a place you should check out.

At 1st glance

Reservoir has always been a hit for a good pint and a good time, and now that it offers brunch it takes its somewhat laid back feel and applies it to a nice weekend morning. To begin with it is wheelchair accessible with a ramp to get in, and although the slope is steep and the washrooms are not wheelchair accessible, they get points for at least trying which is more than other places do. The decor is nice, not too fancy, but comfortable with classic wood chairs, tables and a big bar with a micro brew behind glass. There are big windows that in the summer open up and let you see and hear what’s happening on Duluth. There is a 2nd floor with an open air terrace, although it was closed when we went. We got there at 11:00 and found a nice spot by the widow, although not even 30 minutes later an increasingly long line started to form, so make sure you don’t show up too late or you are likely to wait.

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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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