Leméac Montreal

Posted By Jennifer Ho Nov 08 2011 · 0 comments · Dining Out

Escargot Ragout WIth Portabello Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Basil-Butter Foam

Leméac is similar to the Montreal classic L’Expresse in that they are both French bistro type restaurants serving excellent fare for reasonable prices. Leméac is a little less stuffy in terms of atmosphere and just as classy. It also has a great terrasse that is open air in the summertime and equipped with heated lamps for the colder days of winter. We went for the after ten menu where you get an entrée and a main for $25 (such an amazing steal) and you would be surprised at how generous the offerings are and how much variety there is to choose from!

We had the escargot ragout with portabello tomatoes, tomatoes and a basil-butter foam and the calamari and zucchinis to start. The escargot I’ve had before and I find it delicious every time. Don’t worry, you get your fair share of snails – they’re not stingy with it – and you get some mini noodles as well. The green foam is a nice touch too. The calamari was plentiful and good with the balsamic-y type sauce. The mains were the grilled Cornish hen and the salmon pot au feu. The hen is always a hearty, warming kind of dish that leaves you more than satisfied at the end of the meal. At times, you might even have to (secretly) undo your top button (don’t worry, no one will notice). Plus the polenta, you will definitely feel full. The salmon was flaky, tender and easily cut with a slight nudge of the fork. Flavorful broth and a lovely mix of vegetables (carrots, potatoes and some greens).

If you’re going during regular hours (not the after ten menu), or if you go for the after ten menu and decide to order dessert, get the pain perdu. Really cool presentation and totally unexpected. It’s the kind of dish you see going by and wonder what it is. This is one you have to get.