As Chez Maude is located on a thoroughfare that I use regularly, I had walked past the small, inviting place several times, saying to myself “I would have to try it one day. As soon as it opened, he made eyes at me. First with its “Epicerie-culinary laboratory” brand, then with its pretty welcoming terrace.

One afternoon, I finally decided to make the trip on purpose, just to get there. As usual, I had consulted the menu online to first make sure that the type of dishes appealed to me. Sandwiches, salads, bowls, yum! Exactly the idea I had made of the place. The fattouch chicken bowl had particularly attracted me! It's a go!

So I parked my car nearby, on the street. What luck, a place had just become available. The sign said I could stay there for 60 minutes. So I thought that would be enough. When I enter Chez Maude, however, I feel a little destabilized. I walk straight into the dining room and see grocery shelves in the back. A counter with a cash register is near the entrance, but the attendant is busy with a client. I wait while observing the scene.

The dining room is really warm. The wooden tables have a lot to do with it, including the largest with benches and cushions that look so comfortable. A green wall catches the eye, filled with greens and fresh herbs. I visually browse the groceries arranged in the wooden bins and shelves, then I glimpse the open kitchen, at the back, flanked by a counter to eat there.

When my turn came, I was invited to sit in the place of my choice. The bar facing the kitchen being already full, I choose the counter in front of the window. Quickly, I was given the printed menu (yes, there are still some!) and I was given explanations about the salad and the toast of the day. I scan it quickly and notice that it is a little more refined than I had imagined: squash and corn, halibut ceviche, forest ravioli. I was rather expecting to choose from a refrigerated counter and sit down to eat my meal on the spot like a bakery, but it is rather a real table service that is offered. A drinks menu is also available. The menu is appetizing, but the fattoush salad displayed online is not there. This is the other side of the coin, when you like to prepare in advance, you can face disappointments.

Not having come with a 3-course lunch in mind, I simply opted for the falafel plate. As my order goes to the kitchen, I can't help looking around. The decor is sublime, many customers come in and out, coming to stock up at the grocery store. And in front of me, passers-by on the street seem just as intrigued as I was when passing the business. I have something to take care of, but… after a while, I start to find the wait a bit long. I look at my phone, it's been a little over 30 minutes since I ordered.

Finally, I receive my beautifully presented plate, like a work of art. In view of the small portion, for a main course, I regret not having been tempted by a starter. We will see. I start the falafels which are delicious with their grilled almonds. These are placed on a hot and tasty homemade naan bread. A tabbouleh with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers as well as a tzatziki complete the plate. Each element taken separately is really delicious and fresh, but I would have greatly preferred that everything was divided on the plate so that I could taste them one at a time. Admittedly, it would have been less visually attractive, but I like it when my bites are different one after the other and not all the flavors are pre-mixed. I would also have preferred to dose my amount of tzatziki and dip my pan naan in it myself. Small quirks? Maybe! But my experience would have been greatly improved!

One thing is certain, however, I came out with a stomach that was crying out for hunger. As expected, the plate failed to satisfy my appetite and I was not presented with the desserts for which I might have flinched.

Note : 7/10

What struck me the most about my visit: The green wall

The specialty of the house: Market cuisine, local products

The most expensive main meal on the menu: Forest ravioli, $26

The cheapest main meal on the menu: Grilled cheese, $13.20

Do I recommend this restaurant: Yes

What time of day did I visit: Lunch time

Pros:
- Local products
- Open kitchen
- Grocery area

Cons:
- Long serve
- Expensive dishes for dinner
- Different online and real menu