Formerly of Pastaga and Van Horne, chef John Winter Russell has given himself a veritable gift by opening his own restaurant - Candide - located in the structure of St. Joseph Church in the Petite-Bourgogne neighbourhood in southwest Montreal. To honour the occasion, we asked him to name some of his favourite Montreal restaurants where the cuisine changes with the seasons.
Dinette Triple Crown - which offers South American cuisine - is known for its fried chicken, but we should certainly not forget its always-impressive array of other dishes, which change regularly. The following menu items are worth noting: the cucumber salad and pork tongue, the fried brill (a river fish), the chutney and the fabulous buttermilk bread which I love so much.
Laloux is a Montreal classic whose menu is full of wonderful seasonal items. My favourite chef, Jonathan, gives special attention to both his clients and his food choices. He is very strict about the quality of ingredients that make up his menu, even sourcing his flour directly from the mill.
This hidden treasure sources ingredients daily from the nearby Marché Jean-Talon on Bélanger Street. Serving 100% organic food, it is probably one of the most misunderstood Montreal restaurants that serves food of this quality. It is an unpretentious establishment where you can feel at home, thanks to the warmth of the three owners, Etienne, Denis and Lyssa, whom you might even see during your visit – say hi! for me. On weekends, stop by for brunch.
Chef Brian Peters comes from the Maritimes, and it is reflected in his cuisine, which features seafood chowder, smoked mackerel, black cod and more. Diners come to this restaurant on Saint Dominique Street for its traditional duck and black bread. The brunch selections - Kyle's French toast, porridge with roasted figs and pears, and Eggs Benedict with duck confit - are also delicious!
The owners of Maison publique have succeeded in recreating the atmosphere of an English pub, hence the restaurant’s name (Public House, in English). Here, you are served food that is simple and delicious: their collection of seasonal dishes are made up of only two to four ingredients per dish. The sommelier will guide you through a list of 100% Canadian wines - undoubtedly the only Montreal restaurant to offer such a list.