Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne is a delightful eatery adorned with 1950s-inspired decor that exudes a distinct Québécois influence. The extensive menu and ingenious use of space provide a comprehensive dining experience worth indulging in. Upon entering, the warm and affable ambiance immediately takes hold. The proprietors’ passion for their craft and patrons is palpable in the cozy establishment, where neighborhood close-knit relationships have been meticulously fostered over the course of four decades.
I had Le Colosse Burger, it features 100% Angus beef, savory cheese, tender Philly steak, spicy jalapenos, crispy pickles, fiery hot peppers, crunchy cool sour cream and chive chips on a soft brioche bun. To add to the indulgent experience, the burger is paired with their ingeniously crafted homemade southwestern sauce. This burger is not for the faint of heart, as it is quite substantial in size.
When one dives into the world of hamburgers, it’s undeniable that the fundamental ingredients remain largely consistent across the board. Invariably, you’ll encounter the main ingredients such as minced meat, onions, tomatoes, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and, of course, the all-important sauce. Many will proclaim that the true magic lies in the sauce, but I’d like to propose an alternative perspective – one that revolves around a different, yet equally vital element: LOVE. I could see that love in Paul’s eyes and smile when it came to his food.
This love, this devotion, infuses the hamburger with an essence that transcends the sum of its parts. It’s an invisible ingredient, an unspoken commitment to excellence, and a genuine desire to create something extraordinary. When you bite into a burger crafted with love, you’re not just tasting food; you’re experiencing the chef’s dedication to their craft.
Paul meticulously grilled the meat to perfection, crafting a patty that’s not just cooked but cared for with an artist’s touch. Imagine the dedication it takes to finely chop the onions and tomatoes to achieve that ideal balance of flavors and textures. Think about the thoughtfulness behind choosing the freshest lettuce and the most delectable pickles to elevate the burger to a sublime level. And yes, even the sauce, prepared with a blend of secret ingredients, becomes a work of culinary art in the hands of a passionate chef like Paul.
As I relished the expertly cooked burger, my teeth crunched through the crispy-seared exterior, unleashing a savory explosion of flavor. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill juice; it’s a luscious elixir brimming with the essence of the meat. It’s a marriage of the meat’s inherent juices, meticulously elevated by the ingenious seasoning and cooking techniques.
The juiciness isn’t just about moisture; it’s also about the way it enhances the overall texture of the burger. It prevents the meat from being dry or overly chewy, ensuring that each bite is tender and easy to savor. The contrast between the succulent meat and the other components of the burger, like the crisp lettuce, the crunch of pickles, and the creaminess of the sauce, adds to the overall sensory experience. The next time you savor a burger that leaves you speechless, remember that it’s not just about what’s in it; it’s about the heart and soul that went into its creation, truly making it a labor of love. @mtlrestorap...
Read moreUpdate: the manager of the restaurant has contacted me personally and apologized for everything that happened today and has refunded me for my time. She is committed to improving the online I mentioned and will now accept all picture id as well. I really appreciate their quick response and have updated my review from 1 to 4 stars for their dedication to improving, thank you again!
Hello, I hope this reaches management or the owner. I had a very discouraging experience today ordering online from this restaurant. I made the order at 4pm on Sunday October 4th as I was near the neighborhood and was going to pick up before heading home. I was called as I was on my way and told that I needed a photo ID.
I asked them if a picture of my driver's license would be enough as my wife was driving and I had forgot my wallet at home. They told me no, that this is a protocol and they need the exact id , even when I explained to them that I would have to make a 40 minute detour to come back. I do not understand why they would not take the picture of my driver's licence with my photo on it when all they do is check photo and name verification, I also had the confirmation email which they also refused. Because of the poor online infrastructure I was not even able to cancel my order as it told me to call the restaurant , where then the lady who I called answered and told me she is not in charge of online orders, and she could not cancel my order.
When asked if I could speak to her boss or manager, she told me they were not there, and that these are the rules. I told her that this made no rational sense at all as the purpose of I'd verification can easily be done with my email confirmation and drivers license photo. Even after going back to get my id, I called her and she stated she would not start the order untill she sees my id in person! I told her then what is the point of online ordering if you are only going to start the order when I get there! She then spoke with someone else and told me it would be fine and she would start the order right away.
So basically because I could not cancel I had to make a 40 minute detour for just 2 small poutines 2 hotdogs and a burger.. which after trying, I could tell you there are many just as good or better places closer to where I live, but I really wanted to try this one because it was so well known. Overall, the Italian poutine and Montreal burger were great, but the classic poutine and hot dogs were just as common as any regular Quebec style restaurant; for example the only places I'm aware of with a different type of hotdog being the orange julep, and the one with amazing home made gravy being Decarie hotdog. To top it all off there was even a long brown hair in my poutine when I opened the cover.. It's a shame as the food is good if I would ever be in that area, but after the way I was treated today I cannot bring myself to ever coming back again, especially with how cold they were when I even came to pick it up again, not even apologizing and just saying my name dropping the order and turning away. This whole experience with the poor service and online infrastructure have been very sour for my wife and I, and put a dent in our day.
Thank you...
Read morePaulo & Suzanne – A Nostalgic Dive into Montreal’s Diner Excellence
Tucked unassumingly across from Sacré-Cœur Hospital on Boulevard Gouin, Paulo & Suzanne is a beloved 4-star classic diner that embodies the soul of Montreal’s no-frills, hearty dining culture. This cash-only gem is a time capsule of retro charm, serving up some of the city’s most satisfying smash burgers and submarines—a must-visit for late-night cravings and comfort-food purists.
Atmosphere: Stepping into Paulo & Suzanne feels like entering a quintessential mid-century diner. The no-nonsense decor—vinyl booths, checkered floors, and fluorescent lighting—pairs perfectly with the hum of conversation and the sizzle of the grill. It’s a place where locals, night owls, and hospital staff mingle over steaming plates, creating a cozy, unpretentious vibe that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic.
Service: Service here is brisk and no-flicker friendly, matching the diner’s straightforward ethos. The staff, seasoned and efficient, keeps the pace lively without sacrificing warmth. They’ll hand you a laminated menu, shout your order to the kitchen, and have your meal in front of you before you’ve finished people-watching. It’s diner service at its finest—uncomplicated and reliable.
Food & Drink: The menu is a love letter to greasy-spoon classics, but Paulo & Suzanne elevates simplicity to an art form. Their smash burgers are legendary—thin, crispy-edged patties piled high with melty cheese, fresh lettuce, and tangy sauce, all cradled by a butter-toasted bun. Each bite is a perfect balance of crunch and juiciness. The submarines are equally stellar, stuffed with quality cold cuts, crisp veggies, and a generous slather of house dressing on pillowy bread.
While the focus is squarely on comfort, the execution is precise. Portions are hearty, flavors are bold, and everything tastes like it’s made with a dash of pride. Just remember: bring cash (no exceptions), and don’t skip the hand-cut fries—golden, salty, and ideal for dunking in gravy or ketchup.
Late-Night Appeal: Paulo & Suzanne truly shines after dark. Open late, especially on weekends, it becomes a haven for post-bar crowds, shift workers, and insomniacs craving a 2 a.m. burger fix. The energy is infectious, with laughter and clattering plates creating a soundtrack to your meal.
The Verdict: Paulo & Suzanne isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel—and that’s why it works. This diner is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-executed classics, served with zero pretension and maximum flavor. Whether you’re fueling up after a hospital visit, capping off a night out, or simply chasing the perfect burger, this spot delivers. Just come hungry, bring cash, and leave your foodie snobbery at the door.
Final Rating: 4/5 – A timeless Montreal institution where simplicity...
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