A few months ago I wrote a story about Pub Burgundy Lion (https://www.burgundylion.com), a traditional British pub with a modern lounge bar that offers a unique twist on British pub cuisine, located in Little Burgundy. The focus was on owner Toby Lyle’s creation of his own bourbon – Maker’s Mark Private Select, Adrianna BL Bourbon.
Besides the Burgundy Lion, his group of restaurants also includes Pub Wolf & Workman, Brit & Chips in Old Montreal, Bishop and Bagg on St. Viateur, Cartier Arms at the Hyatt Centric Hotel on Notre Dame Street East as well as RBHC Catering. You can read my full story on that subject here: https://mtlrestorap.com/burgundy-lion-whiskey-aficionado-toby-lyle-introduces-his-own-makers-mark-bourbon/
When I spoke to Lyle, I told him how I looked forward to experiencing his fine cuisine. So, I started off at the Burgundy Lion on Notre Dame Ouest, which opened in the summer of 2008. We were welcomed by manager Gabe Barraza and our charming server Ilona. The concept behind the design and feel of Pub Burgundy Lion is to blend a traditional British pub with a modern lounge bar and to offer a unique twist on British pub cuisine.
“We provide a higher quality product in food, drink, service, and ambiance than other established pubs, “states the ownership.
The name relates to the fact it is located in Little Burgundy, which has enjoyed a re-birth as young professionals are taking advantage of its proximity to the downtown core and its renewed sense of community.
Indeed, Burgundy Lion is obsessed with whisky, be it blends, single malts, scotches, Irish whiskies, bourbons, ryes, or whiskies of the world. I did sample a shot of Jameson Irish Whiskey and of course a glass of Lyle’s pride and joy Adrianna. The list of whisky offered here has grown to more than 750, the largest collection in Quebec and among the top in all of North America. The place can accommodate 300 diners over two floors and a pair of seasonal terrasses.
The lunch and dinner menu is appetizing, to say the least. For starters, we began with cod fish cakes, salted cod fish cakes, winter greens and bacon, with curry mayo. Crispy and delicious! In the Peckish category, you can find something in between appetizers and a main course. The London Tea Party was calling my name, tuna and cucumber tea sandwiches with crisps (potato chips) and salad.
For the main course, I had my eye on two of the marquee items: the Little Burgundy Fish & Chips, cod with Burgundy Lion Ale batter, chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce; and the Shepherd’s Pie, Lamb ragout, roots vegetables and creamy Yukon gold purée. They also have some items such as schnitzel, Indian chicken, beef and veggie burgers, lamb shank, classic tartare, house sausage and more.
Desserts are called English sweets. Check out the Sticky Toffee, cheesecake and brandy chocolate mousse.
Breakfast is served on weekends from 10 am to 2 pm, something I have added to my “to-do list.”
Burgundy Lion is located at 2496 Notre Dame O. Log on to www.burgundylion.com or call 514 -934 -0888. Hours of operation are 11:30 am to 3 am Monday to Friday and 10 am to 3 am on weekends.