We went to Au Festin de Babette for brunch on a Sunday, and it was such a lovely experience from start to finish. My friend had called ahead to reserve a table for two — definitely a good idea, as the place is quite popular.
The location is fantastic, right in the heart of the Plateau. The ambiance is cozy and charming, and the service was genuinely warm and attentive. We both ordered the St-Denis brunch plate — a generous and beautifully presented dish with a waffle, poached egg, salad, gratin dauphinois, and a seasonal side (we had fresh fruit). It also came with a delicious chocolate mousse for dessert. Everything was tasty, but the gratin dauphinois was the star of the show!
Partway through, a friend of ours called after finishing a workout — she was starving and wanted to join us. The staff was incredibly accommodating and quickly arranged for us to move to a table for three. They welcomed her with a smile and served her promptly, which we really appreciated.
We ended up staying and chatting for almost three hours, and at no point did we feel rushed or unwelcome. That kind of relaxed, gracious service is rare and made our brunch all the more enjoyable.
Thank you to the team at Festin de Babette — we’ll definitely be...
Read moreComing to Montreal for three years every few months timing has never lined up until yesterday for a visit to Au Festin de Babette...It was truly worth the wait. I've always been drawn to it's curb appeal and signage alone. It delivered. Full force. My Husband, four year old and I were bewitched. The hot chocolate is decadent; thick, rich, creamy, and actually tastes like something other than just sugar. Our Server was not only charming but guided us with joy and passion through the tasting notes of the different Hot Chocolates like a true Gourmand. The food was sinfully delicious and a lesson in Brunch executed to perfection. Our savory waffles were a perfect balance of indulgence and actual nutrition- fresh vegetables, rich sauce and accoutrements without drowning you in it. The beet cream on my goat cheese waffle was sweet, unexpected, and truly delightful. I would give anything to have this cafe as my neighbor back home. The chef knew the perfect balance of teasing you with delightful flavors and portions that left you celebrating your plate versus being a glut. I (we) cannot wait to return to what I would dub Montreal's best hot chocolate, and a case study in unpretentious ...
Read moreI had the most charming experience at Au Festin de Babette in Le Plateau neighborhood! The vintage decor transported me to a different era, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that felt like a cozy escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the hot chocolate - a nostalgic delight that tasted just like the one my grandma used to make. It was rich, creamy, and filled with comforting flavors that instantly brought back cherished memories. The crepes were another treat, perfectly cooked and offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Beyond the scrumptious food and drinks, the overall ambiance and attentive service made this visit truly special. Au Festin de Babette is a hidden gem that manages to capture the essence of both quality and nostalgia, creating an experience that I will undoubtedly treasure and return to for more of that...
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