Resto Tandem — Restaurant in La Malbaie

My worst experience in Charlevoix.

Having one hour until our train departed, we (a group of 3 girls) decided to get into this restaurant in order to drink a beer (maybe two) before our train departed. It was almost empty.

As I know some restaurants do not allow only to drink (we just had a brunch, so there was no room for food), I stood up at the counter and asked one of the men who worked there (there seems to be two men who ran the place, I will call them guys 1 and 2) if we could stay just for the drinks.

Before I said anything, guy 1 approached me with a rude attitude. He did not reply my “hi, how are you doing today?”. Instead, he said: “I am not your waiter” after my greeting. The guy 2 arrived and said: “are you in a hurry? This is not a fast food, seat to be served”.

I found it strange and thought that maybe this was just cultural (we live in Montreal and have never experienced such a treatment).

When guy 2 approached our table I asked him if we could just drink there, without ordering food, to which he replied “no problem at all”. He got our (not cheap) beers and, after 10 minutes, guy number 1 arrives and asks: “one or 3 bills?”, to which I answer “we are not even close to finish and we might order another one”. To which he said: “we are going to ask you to leave to give your table to someone who will eat.”

Well, the restaurant was not crowded, there were still tables available. By then, my friends and I were feeling so awkward, we decided to just pay and leave. One of my friends were so chocked she did not want to tip, to which I convinced her to do (God knows what those guys would be up to if we did not).

I seriously do not recommend this place. I know it is close to the train station but find somewhere nicer to spend your money and time. This was really upseting and we left La Malbaie with a bad taste...

This was our first in-restaurant meal since Covid hit and what a way to make a comeback! This was the best meal we had on our seven-day trip in the Charlevoix region. We would have returned the next night but we were sadly leaving the next day and it takes a few days' notice to get a table here. Stéphane and Benoit run a wonderful establishment with personalized service, charming decor, well-curated music playlist and most importantly world-class cuisine. You can tell that a lot of heart and soul goes into the meal. The flavors are inventively matched (I grew up in food service) and the plates meticulously presented. The pair seem to really care about their clients' experience because they check in frequently with hospitality and pride. A refreshing change from a lot of other establishments in the area who seem entitled to your business. We had the crab cake and the escargot as appetizers, the lobster mac and cheese (phenomenal) and the seafood chowder as mains and the chocolate lava cake and pudding chômeur for dessert. All paired with a wonderful white wine suggested by Stéphane. Some homemade delicacy surprises also popped up throughout the meal. We phoned in with a special request before our reservation and Stéphane was so lovely and accommodating. I can't believe any of the reviews that mention rudeness. These must be unreasonable people and perhaps a language barrier led to crossed wires. This restaurant is a standout for a couple who has travelled far and wide-- and who is usually in Italy this time of year. This restaurant was on equal footing with the best meals we've had back home. Merci Stéphane et Benoit, vous étiez très gentils avec...

What a lovely experience it was at Resto Tandem. I heard nothing but great reviews about this restaurant that's a less than 10 min walk from the Fairmont Charlevoix. To my surprise, the food and experience exceeded my and my entire family's expectations!

First thing's first, the food was amazing. We had the Fried Calamari for the appetizer (perfect crispness) and my wife and I ordered the Lamb Tajine and Pork Osso Bucco, while the kids ordered the Lasagna and lobster mac'n cheese. Best food we had in a long long time. The kids kept saying this was the best food they have ever eaten! Kudos to the chef.

Secondly, the service at Resto Tandem was second to none. Stefan (apologies for any misspelling) is the man and he made our meal extra special with impeccable service. He was fantastic with our kids (they couldn't stop talking about him the day after too) and was just an overall delight with his knowledge of the food, drink / food recommendations, and his humor. Food is important but to me, service though is even more important.

Finally, we all loved the decor of the restaurant. It just has that French charm. The music was to our liking too.

Overall, nothing but postives to say about Resto Tandem. Note that we dined at Le Saint-Laurent the next evening and Resto Tandem beats it hands down in all fronts. Therefore, if you are within the area, definitely make a reservation and enjoy Resto Tandem, a true jewel of...