Chez Ernest - Comptoir de curiosités — Restaurant in Montreal

Stopped in for drinks last week and have to say this is a pretty cool little bar. I don’t get up into this area of the city often but glad my friend who suggested this spot did. Beer selection was decent and not bad on pricing . The decor alone is worth stopping in for, im a sucker for curiosities and they have amassed a nice little collection here. Service was decently quick and friendly. Would have given 5 stars except that during our visit the server was openly complaining about her tip to a customer in front of the rest of the bar. This is very unprofessional and quite shocking to see. I understand that a lot of a servers wages comes from tips (I was in the service industry for many years) , but they are also optional. You can’t just assume someone is cheap, maybe they didn’t like the service, maybe there was an issue with their meal etc. I see in other replies from the owner defending their staff and saying you should be prepared to pay a tip when you go out…while true , if someone chooses not to tip that’s at their discretion and if 50% of a servers wage comes from tips (as mentioned in other reviews) wouldn’t you think the onus lies with the business paying the server a living wage and not relying on a customers tip. Maybe that person having a drink makes minimum wage and just worked a 40 hour week that they don’t get tips at, same wage as the server upset she’s not being tipped…a myriad of reasons a tip might not be given, it’s given for good service, it should not be automatic otherwise charge it on your bill. It’s just very unprofessional to talk down to a customer about a gratuity, it makes everyone in earshot feel uncomfortable. I was always told as a waiter to smile and be kind even if someone doesn’t tip as they are the face of the business. That should be the norm. Rant over…all in all a good hangout spot and will return but will hope to not witness such a...

I recently visited this establishment and was met with a less-than-pleasant experience. The manager, who referred to himself as 'the little Frenchman', surprisingly advised me to go elsewhere—a suggestion I now understand.

The quality of the food was disappointing. It lacked the flavor and finesse one would expect from a place that presents itself with such confidence. The service, too, was below par. Not only did the staff seem disinterested and unattentive, but I also faced a significant challenge in getting service in English. This language barrier, coupled with the staff's unaccommodating attitude, further diminished my dining experience.

Furthermore, the cocktails were a letdown. They were noticeably watered down, lacking the robust flavor and quality one anticipates in a good mixed drink. Considering the numerous options available on the plaza, I would recommend exploring other venues for a more rewarding culinary and...

I've only visited once but loved my experience. There was live music the night we were there, which was fun and not too loud, so we could enjoy the live performance without having to scream in eachother's ears. We didn't try the food, but what we saw pass by looked great. Lots of sharing options. The beer selection was great: all local beers with reasonable prices. If cocktails are your thing, they don't take any shortcuts here. As for the decor, it felt like we were hanging out in a natural history museum. A must-see, go and experience for yourself. Friendly service with perfect lighting and ambiance....