Three Restaurants in Montreal’s Golden Square Mile
October in Montreal is a lot colder than it is in New York – people are wearing thicker jackets, even their Mackage or Canadian Goose coats. It’s not quite time to don gloves, but scarves and hats are definitely a must this time of year. With the air so crisp, breezing through the leaves that have already turned into autumn colors, this was the perfect time to check out fall menus at three different restaurants in the Golden Square Mile neighborhood.
Restaurant Gustave
While the décor is modern and stylish, the atmosphere remains true to a French bistro: all the tables appeared to be filled with groups of friends laughing and enjoying themselves over elegantly plated comfort food. My server was very helpful and attentive, as he made his recommendations for lunch while letting me know almost all of the ingredients are locally sourced. I took his advice and ordered the squash soup and skate fish over a glass of pinot grigio. I thought the squash soup was perfect for the season, especially since it was cold outside. I had never eaten skate fish before, but I was glad to find its texture was firm, and hearty. After lunch, I took a quick peek at their mezzanine, up the spiral staircase – perfect for private dining!
Though the restaurant was full during the lunch hour, my server fit me into a corner table next to the gorgeous bar where all seats were fully occupied. I understood why, as I was salivating over the menu. I could have chosen a prix fixe menu, but the tapas called to me. Iberica offers cuisine specific to Barcelona such as paella, fideua, and grilled meats and fishes. In the end I opted for three tapas: jamon croquetas, anchovy on tomato-smeared toast, and patatas bravas. A gentleman passing by leered over my table and said, “Bon appetit! That looks so good!” And it really was. The grilled panini toast was a nice complement to the tomato smothered on top, with the salty spike of the anchovy. The croquetas were perfectly crispy on the outside while inside, the creamy bechamel sauce and Serrano jamon was delightfully savory. The patatas bravas had a spicy kick in its sauce. Perhaps it’s because I haven’t had tapas in so long, but for me this restaurant hit the spot!
If Gustave is a modern, stylish brasserie and Iberica is a Spanish brasserie, then Marcus is a level above in both décor and international cuisine. Owned by Chef Marcus Samuelsson, this chic spot on the third floor of the Four Seasons Montreal serves mostly seafood fare with Scandinavian influences. Our cheerful server guided us through the menu, since it was our first time at the restaurant, which just opened in May 2019. My colleague gushed over her spinach burrata salad and seared scallops, while I was thrilled with my slightly grilled salmon belly wrapped in seaweed, and entrée of grilled octopus with black squid ink. In addition, we had an addictive side dish of brussels sprouts. I left in a good mood after having truly enjoyed my dinner.
After all the shopping or all that studying (if you’re a student at McGill University) in the Golden Square Mile, know that there are some great eats in the area!
~T~
