Passing the small restaurant Olive + Gourmando of St. Paul Street in Montreal, we understand immediately that something special frame it, if we go by the crowd that overwhelms him. Stung by the curiosity of the place that had been highly recommended to me, I decided to enter, accompanied by a friend.
One glance was enough to understand the general enthusiasm for the little cafe. Before sitting down to me, I was charmed by the soul of the place. A small restaurant that has its own identity, with fresh and homemade, all topped with a decor that exudes true. It does not need more to attract foodies.
Although twelve o'clock had struck there was a good time, space does not dérougissait. If we wanted a table, waiting 45 minutes were required. Never mind, he would have had more to discourage us! So we could enjoy the pleasant location of the restaurant for a ride through the cobbled streets of Old Montreal and greet down the river until a table becomes free.
Once seated, I take a closer look at the scenery. On the walls, slates predominate, with yes, practical guidance on the menu, but also small interesting notes that say more about the institution. In it lingering, it is learned that the leaders are the owners and all the products are made on site. Despite the cramped conditions and the proximity of tables, we get to feel comfortable and at ease.
Looking through the menu, surprise: no traces of olives on the menu! Only olive oil bottles converted into water pitchers left on the table are a reminder of the name of the establishment. No worry, the menu is still tempting. Lunches, brunches and lunches are also offered on Saturday afternoon. The place seems above all stand out for lunches and that's what my table companion chooses. She opts for the Cha-Cha-Chia bowl (we salute the humor) that consists of a chia pudding topped with quinoa muesli, nut butter, banana and coconut, served in a mason jar. A comforting vitality dose in a fairly generous portion.

Personally, I go on the lunch menu offers paninis, sandwiches and salads. This is the plate Crab Shrimp + who won the race after much hesitation. It leaves the choice to the customer to taste the crab in Quebec and Matane shrimp with lemon mayo, chives, Boston lettuce, pickles and a lawyer is on brioche bread or salad. Given the extreme heat of May, I opt for a refreshing salad. The presentation of my dish was superb and highly first put in appetite with its enticing colors. To taste the salad fills me, it falls absolutely up my alley. Only dill branches that came throw some shade on the romance between me and my flat. I love the taste of this herb, but I would have preferred it to be chopped rather than end up in entire branches. The dish I enjoyed greatly and version on brioche had the succulent and very greedy air in neighbor's plate. The freshness was the rendezvous.
After tasting the dishes, we understand why the place is so popular. In this kind of small place, however, is expected to have more proximity with the staff here was a bit remote and changed throughout the service.
Before leaving, there lingers tantalizing counter topped with granola home and biscuits to take away. A treat for the road ...
In short, a great address in Old Montreal for a quick lunch, a healthy lunch or a sweet sweet takeaway.
Note:
8.5 / 10
What I remember most from my visit:
The popularity of the place and the menu of health vocation
The specialty of the house:
lunches

The most expensive main course on the menu:
crab + shrimp dish, $ 20

The main meal cheapest on the menu:
green salad, $ 7

Would I recommend this restaurant:
Yes
What time of day did I made my visit:
Having dinner
Most :
homemade products
Fresh ingredients
Coffee menu
Biscuits and homemade pastries
ambience

The lessers :
single toilet
remote service