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Reviews by Tony Medeiros

Elio Pizzeria is a Taste of Italy in the Heart of Montreal

Elio Pizzeria has a rich history spanning over six decades and is a true Montreal culinary treasure. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a traveler passing through, this pizzeria is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Montreal.
RestoDishes Exclusive: Le Burger Week: Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne’s “Le Colosse” Burger

RestoDishes exclusive: Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne is a delightful eatery adorned with 1950s-inspired decor that exudes a distinct Québécois influence. The extensive menu and ingenious use of space provide a comprehensive dining experience worth indulging in.
Weekends Mean Takeout Bliss – and Gigi Pizzeria in Pointe-Claire Village Takes the Crown!

Gigi Pizzeria is nestled in Pointe-Claire village. Every corner of Quebec seems to have its cherished pizza haven, a place where the locals hold fervent convictions that it reigns supreme in terms of being the most delectable, the oiliest, the cheesiest, or the heartiest, among other attributes.
Medeiros family tries yummy smash burgers at Yumi Burger near Concordia University

We met our daughter downtown and she came up with a fantastic recommendation to eat at smash burger specialists Yumi Burger, conveniently situated at 1448 Rue Mackay in the heart of Montreal. A smash burger refers to a variety of hamburger creations involving the action of “smashing” or pressing down on a spherical mass of ground beef onto a heated cooking surface, commonly a griddle or skillet.
Madame Poulet: New local restaurant comes to Pointe-Claire

Have you heard the news? Madame Poulet (madamepoulet.com) has just opened a brand new location in Pointe-Claire! I recently had the pleasure of visiting the restaurant and was delighted by the experience.

Reviews Mike Cohen

Deli Planet continues to thrive at Central Station with standup comedy on the side

I recently attended the annual teacher’s convention at the Hotel Bonaventure. It was the first time I did so since before the pandemic. At lunch hour I would always go to the food court in the same building. When I walked over I was surprised to see that it no longer exists.
Kyo Bar Japonais offers a splendid Izakaya experience

For many years, Kyo Bar Japonais has been on our radar screen to try. We finally made that happen recently and it was everything we expected and more. Located in Old Montreal and opened in the summer of 2023, Kyo Bar Japonais immerses you in the frenzied vibe of an Izakaya with the hushed atmosphere of a sushi bar, with a list of over 25 sakés.
Pizzéria NO.900 returns from the International Pizza Challenge as big winners

On the eve of its 10th anniversary, things are looking very bright for Pizzéria NO.900. With 30 successful franchises, including one that opened in Lyon, France last winter, the brand’s leadership just returned from Atlantic City where it secured first and second place finishes at the International Pizza Challenge.
A return to Duc de Lorraine: Montreal’s iconic French Bistro, Bakery, Pastry Shop and caterer

Although it has been around since 1952, I only experienced the magnificent Duc de Lorraine for the very first time two years ago. Needless to say, it left a lasting impression.
Milestones has arrived in Quebec with the new Fairview Pointe-Claire location

We have been touting the much-anticipated arrival of Milestones Restaurants, a leading Canadian restaurant chain, to Quebec for a few years now. Well, thanks to the team at Foodtastic, this exceptional dining experience has arrived at Fairview-Pointe Claire.

Reviews by Glenn J. Nashen

Glenn J. Nashen: A new Vietnamese experience at Tran Cantine

When it comes to a Vietnamese dining-out experience in Montreal look no further than the Tran Family. Following up on our recent sensational night out at the newly launched Hang Bar in Old Montreal, Judy and I, along with our friends Dana and Jeff accepted an invitation to Marilyn Tran’s diner in St. Henri, aptly named Tran Cantine.
India Rosa delights with unique Punjab-fusion creations and an unforgettable blend of tradition and innovation

With its refined and intimate atmosphere, unique cocktails, and delicious selection of classic Indian and fusion dishes, India Rosa is undoubtedly an amazing spot to impress a date, catch up with friends, or network with colleagues.
Review of Restaurant Hang: Glenn J. Nashen: Montreal’s Top-Notch Vietnamese Cuisine

What secret treasures await when a new restaurant opens? One can only imagine, until being lucky enough to be exposed to the sights, smells and tastes of Restaurant Hang. Such was the experience on a recent Thursday night when my wife and I made reservations at what has been billed as the “first haute cuisine Vietnamese restaurant” in Montreal. Sure, our city has plenty of upscale trendy places, but nothing quite like this new concept in Asian fine dining. It tantalized all of our senses, from the moment we walked through the doors and took in the sumptuous decor. Hang arrives as the newest restaurant in the renowned hospitality group JEGantic’s portfolio. Vietnamese cuisine will be elevated from its usual humble “mom and pop” eateries to a refined haute cuisine experience that celebrates the unique flavours of the Southeast Asian country. Montrealers will be fittingly welcomed to come “hang” and indulge in a culinary journey that reflects Vietnam’s rich heritage with an innovative spin on favourite dishes. We were greeted by Joyce Phanekham, the effervescent general manager, who was helpful and attentive to her guests throughout our two-and-a-half-hour dining experience. She promptly introduced us to one of the most personable restauranteurs we have yet to meet, Marylyn Tran. Marylyn teamed up with her husband Alain and the folks from JEGantic to create an experiential and uniquely Asian venue for traditional, authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a class of its own. And who better to know how to achieve this pinnacle other than the Tran family who already own several restaurants under the Tran Cantine banner? After all, Marylyn was raised in her parent’s kitchen where she acquired her unique taste, over at their St. Denis Street Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Tay Ho. The family started this business back in 1986 and it is still going strong. Indeed, the name Hang is a nod of appreciation to Marylyn’s mom. Marylyn grew up cherishing the culinary and cultural intricacies that captivated their family, friends and clientele and eventually branched out, opening her own chain of traditional Vietnamese restos. Located between Griffintown and Old Montreal, Hang will surely attract the young in-crowd, as well as tourists seeking a memorable night out on the town. Marylyn introduced us to her right-hand man, Marco, a knowledgeable and experienced server and cook who took care of us for our date-night. He described in great detail each dish served, with ease and familiarity as though he himself was the chef. We started out with, what else, Pho Wagyu Consommé, a classic noodle soup that Hang has enhanced with its elaborate preparation: 14 hours of cooking over at Tran Cantine. It had many delicate ingredients including Wagyu beef and fresh rice noodles. The aroma of truffle alone made this a mouth-watering winning choice. Judy’s Franco-Viet Salmon Tartare tasted “like the ocean.” This dish of salmon was served with old-fashioned mustard, crispy rice, shallots, green onions and long red peppers. My Five-Spiced Buttered Scalloped – Ngo Vi Houng consisted of three pan-fried scallops each nestled in its own Asian soup spoon and bathed in secret fish sauce. They were garnished with crushed nuts and a hint of lemon making them simply perfect. Judy enjoyed her main course of Vegan Red Curry, a locally sourced seasonal vegetable medley stewed in red curry paste, coconut milk, palm sugar and julienned taro. I literally licked my fingers while eating a homemade order of Banh Mi Foie Gras. Imagine pan-seared foie gras, caramelized onions, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, coriander, and homemade mayo with Hang special sauce on a soft baguette, an ode to Alain’s native city of Paris. It was served on a large banana leaf, and the garnish on all their plates was a work of art. So too was the elegantly designed cutlery. Joyce describes Hang as a chill environment to linger, drink, talk and share delicious dishes among friends. All the staff were extremely personable, friendly and helpful. The decor features exotic nature elements that mimic the dense greenery of Da Nang’s jungle. The soaring ceilings, leafy chandeliers and striking wood columns add an impressive grandeur to the place. There was a great vibe throughout our evening with lots of smiling, happy young patrons. Indeed, owing to the immersive bar environment diners must be 18 or older at Hang. Finally, our dessert was served. Gateau au Pandan was quite distinct and attractive but we both decided that the Creamy Coconut Flan with Banana was the clear winner. Hang has a flair for mixology. From our opening round of shots to our cocktails, and mocktails and ending with a Vietnamese Coffee Martini, they are pros at presentation, taste and hospitality. Marylyn and her crew may be new to the high-end market but the high-end market is also new to Vietnamese cuisine. They are truly passionate about their mission and are on a winning track. Our experience was delightful and our evening was enriched by their warm and hospitable demeanour. We felt like we were hanging out (no pun intended) with friends and family around an exquisitely prepared table of outstanding cultural cuisine. Who could ask for more? Hang is poised to become Montreal’s new must-visit dining destination. It is located at 686 Notre Dame Ouest in Old Montreal, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. Visit hangbar.ca or call 514 910-2227.
Glenn J. Nashen: Peruvian-Italian Night Out Review of Restaurant Les Deux Fours

Peruvian-Italian restaurant, Les Deux Fours, in the Villeray—Saint-Michel—Parc-Extension borough, my curiosity peaked and I jumped on the opportunity.
Glenn J. Nashen’s Five Alarm Culinary Adventure at Sushi Taxi

Not even a major shutdown of Notre Dame Street in Little Burgundy could keep us away from a gastronomic luxury take-out of sushi and Asian fusion at Sushi Taxi. No exaggeration! The fire department literally closed down the street for an emergency. However, the conscientious staff called to say, ‘stand by’. As soon as the ‘all clear’ sounded we headed into the bistro-chique locale.

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