I recently wrote an article for Urban Expressions on L’Atelier d’Argentine and the Montreal Highlights Festival. As part of writing the article, I was invited by L’Atelier d’Argentine for brunch with my husband and baby.
I’d never been to the much acclaimed DNA which formerly inhabited this modern space, so it was all new to me. The restaurant is located in Old Montreal and is very modern and chic. Apparently there used to be a lot of orange going on. The gentleman I spoke to said that they mostly kept the restaurant as is, but just changed a few elements.. like the orange. On my tour downstairs I saw a load of orange wine glasses, which I assume were part of DNA. Seems a bit weird but I guess it worked for them..
Anyways, the space is beautiful. The staff were extremely attentive, but I have to disclose that they knew me and exactly why I was there so I may have been privvy to some extra special attention…
I was wondering what an Argentinian brunch might look like. Besides the names, the menu is pretty standard for brunch.
I ordered the Huevos Revueltos ($11) which was very good. The little potatoes were crisp, and there was a generous portion of bacon.
My partner selected the Torrejas which were amazing orange french toast, honey and a pear and vanilla compote. It was really good, and stood out.
We just had juice with our meal although I notice a Bottomless Bloody Maria ($19) option on the menu which could be fun.
Despite the chic atmosphere, we felt pretty good having the baby along and there was a high chair and a little plate of fruit ready for him.
After the meal, we got a little tour of the restaurant. The wine cave is very impressive indeed. There are quite a few Canadian wines left which were acquired when DNA left but the focus, as expected, is on Argentinian and Chilean wines. There is a wide selection of private imports in the collection.
There is also a beautiful private room which can seat up to 15. They can also take groups of up to 35 people (on two tables) or 20 people (on one table). The chefs table is no longer in use.
In addition, there is a bar which looks like it could get pretty rocking. The kitchen closes at 1am and the bar is open until 3am. They also have all sorts of deals such as Buenos Aires Hours after 10:30 where you get a starter and main for $22.50 and a 5 a 7 with 5 cocktails, 5 wines and 5 beers all at $5 each.
Honestly, the whole experience was way more than I expected. From the design to all the extras like the wine room, private room and late bar there is much more than meets the eye.
I think that along with your regular Montrealers looking to eat out, this is a great place for tourists in town staying in Old Montreal and looking for late eating, as well as those working in the area looking for a 5 a 7. I used to work at Square Victoria and the pickings for an after work drink were pretty slim (although that was 8 years ago..)
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355 Marguerite d’Youville
Montreal, QC H2Y 2C4
514-287-3362
Decor: I liked it – modern and chic.
Service: Extremely efficient, but I do have to note they knew I was there to do an article on them.
Price: The brunch was much more affordable than I thought it would be for the location and atmosphere.
Food: Very good. The french toast especially stood out.
Baby Friendly: Well, I don’t know if they have change facilities, but they have a high chair and were happy to cut up fruits to occupy the little one.
Michelle Little
Writer & Photographer
