Booked for 7pm, called at 6:15 to change the reservation to 7:30 due to the fact we expected crazy traffic downtown. They said no problem and thanked me for calling in advance to let them know. Arrived at 7:30. Another couple arrived at 7:40, was seated next to us and their order was taken before us even though we were ready with our menus down for at least 15 min. When I flagged the server to ask if we could order and questioned why she took the other couple’s order first, she told me we were late for our original reservation and the other couple had reserved for 7:30, so they get priority. Very strange service considering I changed the reservation in advance. Thank goodness we brought our own wine, we would have waited forever for a drink (the place’s only redeeming quality)! The service was lacking as only two people seemed to be serving this small and sparsely populated restaurant: the server and the chef. I liked the fact that you could customize your plate with two choices of sides, but disappointed to discover the food was plain and the portions laughable if you ordered a side that wasn’t rice or fries. We were otherwise patient and accommodating and didn’t bother to complain considering the server’s curt response to my question about taking our order. My friend and I both ordered the confit duck leg with a choice of sides. The duck leg itself was cooked properly but was super plain with a minuscule saucer of sauce served on the side. My friend ordered the frites as a side, which were good. The mini roasted potatoes and brussel sprouts I ordered had no flavour and were undercooked, not to mention there were only three of each on my plate cut in half! I felt like I was eating French food from a cafeteria for people that don’t enjoy fine dining. At $34 a plate, I felt ripped off because I’ve had way better French food for way less at many other establishments. I wish I had taken a photo to accompany my review because the presentation was terrible. Overall, I do not recommend this restaurant unless you like very plain food at a premium price. Perhaps it was the demographic of the area they were catering to? We were the youngest people in the restaurant, and we do not plan...
Read moreThis my second visit to À la table d'Outremont.
This is a small, young restaurant in the less posh, lower part of Outremont. Staff is limited to owners Chef Michel and Front of the House Lead Amélie, who are life partners as well.
Both Michel and Amelie have an obvious passion for creating and sharing tasty, authentic French food. It shows in the dishes they serve.
The first time I ate there, I had a delicious boudin (created by Chef Michel from scratch) with mashed potatoes. The second time, I tried the amazing guinea fowl, server with gratin dauphinois. Who knew guinea fowl tasted that good? Both of those main dishes were exceptional.
One of the likely reason for this is that Chef Michel sources local ingredients and adapts the menu based on availability.
Deserts appear to have been made by a completely different person from the mains. I had tarte tatin, one of our table mates ordered a crème brûlée. Clearly, these deserts need some work. The tarte tatin was ok-only, with a micro serving of icecream. The crème brûlée was skimpy, very thin, and felt cold inside, as if coming from the freezer. Disappointing.
Portions for bread were visibly measured.
This is a "bring your own bottle of wine" restaurant, which may enable big potential savings.
Amélie's service was friendly, attentive and prompt, but could be more confident.
The restaurant is clean, but the decor is not memorable.
The music choice was very much in the French classics register and it was not too loud (a good thing!). For me, eating old world style French food, all the while hearing Edith Piaf or Joe Dassin singing in the background went a long way in dredging happy memories, boosting the atmosphere factor. Good choice!
In short, a restaurant is about food before all else. On that chapter, À la table d'Outremont, with its concise menu, fresh, expertly prepared, classic main dishes, scored high in my book. Deserts need work. BYOB is a nice feature.
I hope À la table d'Outremont does well. The owners clearly show passion and intention. It is on the right track, even if there is room for...
Read moreI recently dined at À La Table d'Outremont, and it was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a cozy yet elegant setting perfect for a relaxed evening. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, offering excellent recommendations and ensuring a seamless dining experience. The food was exceptional—each dish was beautifully presented and packed with flavor. I especially enjoyed the fresh, seasonal ingredients that were clearly chosen with care. The balance of flavors in each course was superb, and the portions were just right. Their wine list is also impressive, offering a range of options to perfectly complement the meal. Overall, À La Table d'Outremont delivers a top-notch dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a great meal, this restaurant is a gem in the heart of Outremont....
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