There are about a year, while I was walking on the west side of St. John Street, I passed this little restaurant that arrested me on the spot. Reservation on a Saturday night, I tried to find me a table in this cheerful place, but without success. I had then promised to return.
A promise is due. With a reservation properly this time I'm back in this little shop that does not have its original name. The narrowness of the place makes its charm immediately. One has the impression of entering with friends, in a place where everyone knows each other. At least for the first dining room. Our hostess, however, leads us to the second room. First impression: it seems that we moved in the warehouse. But it is not negative, I love the different scenery. The restaurant calls itself a wine box, the intended effect works. As it also serves takeaways, you can take a bottle to take home. Interesting for those who enjoy making discoveries outside SAQ. A large shelf full of bottles of wine sets the tone for the room and slates affixed here and there.
We sat and I hesitate to take off my coat. It is freezing cold in the room. I look around me, I console myself, I'm not the only chilly corner, other guests also chose to retain their coarse wool.
I glance at the blackboard where the menu is displayed the moment there. A little short, it will require explanation. However, they are slow to come ... the minutes pass and the server carries from table to table, but he seems to forget us. A sommelier is playful save the day. The wine selection impresses me and I let myself be tempted by a half glass of Time of Cherries, fruity and light, as requested. During the wait, I have time to dwell on the holding of the server. Not that I demand the shirt and tie, but a big hooded sweatshirt rather seems conducive to an evening at the salon.
A little later, it's finally our turn to receive detailed explanations dishes. The place is flexible, open to us to choose several starters to share or adjust the services to our liking. It does not take longer for us concoctions us a four-course meal to share.
We start with the charcuterie plate which generally bait well a meal. Pleasant, fresh, varied, soft are the adjectives that describe our first service. Then come the pickled mackerel and oysters in Caraquet. Dishes very fresh, very pleasant despite the coldness of the room. Finally, we warm ourselves around the truffles with bacon. A steaming plate of potatoes, cheese and bacon served in a very friendly manner, in a cast iron skillet. The dish warms me, it is comforting. However slight disappointment since we had spoken cheese curds and that goes completely unnoticed.
Having seen pass these cute little pots masons at nearby tables, one is tempted by a dessert: a stepped creamy mousse with peaches, creamy chocolate and biscuits. The first two floors are a total success, unfortunately the latter seemed to have undergone a bit of a saltshaker too.
During the evening, I am pleased that on wine, it is "open", the undecided are proposed to enjoy for their choices, little attention that makes the difference.
Note :
7.5 / 10
What I remember most from my visit:
The wine list
The specialty of the house:
French cooking
The most expensive main course on the menu:
Pigeon, cauliflower, $ 26
The main meal cheapest on the menu:
Truffade bacon, $ 17
Would I recommend this restaurant
Yes
What time of day do I have made my visit:
Supper
Most :
Sommelière
Take away food
Seasonal cuisine
Cons:
Temperature of the dining room
