Knuckles is an inventive neighborhood gem in Montreal's dining scene that masterfully sits at the intersection of a fine-dining kitchen and a nostalgic greasy spoon. They excel at turning comfort food classics completely on their heads, offering a menu that is equal parts playful, indulgent, and seriously well-executed. The clear standout of the meal is the Tartare Big Wac, a dish that proves to be an absolute triumph. It arrives styled exactly like a classic fast-food double cheeseburger, complete with a toasted sesame seed bun, a mountain of shredded iceberg lettuce, melted cheese, thick pickle slices, and a signature sauce that captures that unmistakable, nostalgic fast-food tang. Instead of a beef patty, it is packed with a generous, impeccably seasoned beef tartare that is rich, tender, and beautifully studded with whole-grain mustard. The crunchiness and structure of the bun offer a fantastic textural contrast to the soft, velvety tartare, while the acidity and brightness of the sauce perfectly cut through the richness. It delivers exactly the flavor profile you hope for, wrapped in a genuinely impressive presentation. It is easily the winner of the night. Equally essential to the experience are the Signature Panzerotti, a staple born from a beloved recipe passed down from the co-owner’s Nonna. These deep-fried, savory turnovers eat like a premium, elevated "pizza pocket" with the flavors cranked up to eleven. Fried to a deep, golden-brown perfection, they boast an incredible, bubbly, and shattering crust. Knuckles serves up a rotation of creative fillings like Spicy Roni (pepperoni, jalapeños, and pecorino) or Cheesesteak (ground beef, onions, marinated hot peppers, and ricotta). Skewered with a pickle or hot pepper to balance the fried indulgence and served alongside a wonderfully creamy dipping sauce, they are incredibly satisfying, delightfully messy, and a mandatory order for the table. For a softer contrast, the Fresh Herb Gnocchi showcases the kitchen's dedication to scratch-made pasta. These pillowy, vibrant green herb gnocchi swim in a rich, buttery, and translucent emulsified sauce, heavily dusted with a snowcap of finely grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of toasted, aromatic spices or breadcrumbs for texture. The gnocchi themselves are beautifully cloud-like. While the sauce is exceptionally savory and well-executed, it leans into a more delicate, comforting profile compared to the bold, punchy flavors of the tartare. Ultimately, Knuckles masterfully blends a cozy, lively neighborhood vibe with a menu that doesn't take itself too seriously but delivers serious technique. Sharing a meal here passing around a basket of fried panzerotti, cutting into a "Big Wac" tartare, and passing around bowls of fresh pasta makes for an incredibly fun, indulgent, and memorable dining experience in the city.
