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Restaurant Garde-Manger
Category: Restaurants Diners Diners [Edit]
408 Rue Saint François-XavierMontreal, QC H2Y 2S9
(514) 678-5044
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
72 reviews for Restaurant Garde-Manger
Review Highlights
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"I've already mentioned my love for the lobster poutine." In 11 reviews -
"Fresh ingredients-had the lobster roll and jerk crab legs." In 4 reviews -
"I had the avocado/tomato salad." In 5 reviews
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72 reviews in English
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Review from Sue S.
5/26/2012
In a word- perfect! We went to Garde Manger last night which was our first in Montreal and we couldn't have had a better experience. Well, I guess if Chuck was there, it would have been better:)
We started with veal cheeks and salmon tartare. Both were amazing. The pieces of salmon were larger than in a typical tartare which made for a nice texture. Highly recommend both dishes.
For the mains, I had the scallops with gnocchi and my husband had the pork chop. Again, both were delicious. The pork was so moist and flavorful. The scallops were perfectly prepared and the gnocchi was light and fluffy.
Unfortunately we had to pass on dessert. After a bottle of wine and all of this food, we were just too full. Tonight is Joe Beef and tomorrow is Au Pied De Cochon. I will post those reviews too. -
Review from Brian D.
Toronto, ON
5/14/2012
Went on a Saturday Night for my wife"s birthday and we were both blown away by how perfect our evening was. Went into dinner with extremely high expectations and Garde Manger delivered.
Managed to get our reservation on Open Table (was on my blackberry at midnight exactly one month before the date in order to get the reso as I heard they go extremely fast.) i found that Open Table is the easiest way to make a reso as they do not answer the phones very often.
We were sat right on time and offered their delicious specialty drink (which was way over-priced)
Our service was great! Very helpful and attentive. Food blew us away. Decided against the lobster poutine and went with the Jerk Crab and it was fantastic. Spicy, flavourful and a very generous portion.
Our only complaint would be its extremely dark. This makes it really hard to read the menu board and to see what we are eating (especially the crab), and takes away from the look of the food. whats the point of making a beautiful dish that nobody can see?
We cant wait to come back. -
Review from Dale D.
Mississauga, ON
5/12/2012
This venue can be summed up in one word: Pretentious!
Some of us who have been around for a while have seen this all before. A restaurant Chef rises to fame based on great food and a couple of TV stints. What follows is a restaurant that does not even bother to return calls for reservations, serves mediocre food and treats customers worse than at La Belle Province hot dog and poutine stand. Bottom line is that Chuck has sold out! "The face of Hellman's Mayonnaise" puhleeese...really Chuck?!
I went to the restaurant on three occasions, with and without reservations. Other than the DJ, the staff seem to think that it is a great privilege to be given the opportunity to dine at their establishment. I won't even get in to the food which was good but overpriced. The service and attitude just turned me off, with no desire to ever come back.
Good luck Chuck, one day you will be waiting by the phone for customers to call. enjoy the ride while it lasts!
There are plenty of other deserving restaurants in Old Montreal, vote with your feet and wallets! -
Review from Kathy K.
Montréal, QC
4/29/2012 ROTD 5/3/2012
From the very first taste of the spices on the rim of the Caesar glass, I knew we were in for a treat! We shared an upgraded version of the lobster poutine - upgraded to 3/4 lb. of lobster - delectable!! Michael had the short ribs, he raved, I snuck a bite and raved. I had the scallops with gnocchi and carrot butter AND BACON!!!! Soooo good!! We listened as the server described the dessert offerings, but decided that espressos would be enough for us.
About those Caesars: what a treat to have the freshest, coldest crab leg garnish. The drinks were so large, they outlasted the meal!
Service was impeccable, the music fabulous. If I had any criticism at all, it would be the poor lighting over the blackboard menus, but then if you went often enough, you'd know them by heart!!
Truly an unforgettable experience. Never had any doubt, Chuck!! Thanks so much!! -
Review from Maheen M.
4/11/2012
Garde Manger is one of the Canadian Celebrity Chef's Chuck Hughes infamous restaurants in Montreal. Garde Manger is a happening spot that requires a reservation; you must be patient with their reservation process - you call them with your information and they call you back a few days later. Luckily, we were able to score a reservation for 2 on short notice this past long weekend (note: they are closed on Mondays).
We arrived a few minutes before our reservations and were seated in a quaint corner at the bar. I loved the interaction we had with the bartenders and our waitress. I would recommend getting a seat at the bar again for future visits.
Food
We opted for 4 course service, trying various seafood items on the menu. The oysters were fresh and delicious, one of the highlights of our meal. Next, Jerk Snow Crab was our 2 course, it was addictive yet spicy. The heat would only be comforted by eating more crab. Our third course was the infamous lobster poutine, absolutely divine; thin fries with cheese and chucks of lobster all covered in a wonderful seafood gravy. My SO wiped the bottom of the dish with bread, no gravy was wasted! Our last course was their seared scallops entree, it was yummy - the scallops were perfectly cooked. I love the roasted carrots that accompanied the dish. After the 4 courses, we were too stuffed to order dessert. I have to come back and try their deep fried mars bar!
Drinks
You must try their infamous snow crab caesar - it was one of the best caesar I have had!
Service
Out of this world service, our plates were cleared right away when we were done our meal. Our waitress made sure our food was paced well between course. Anything we asked for, we got. They do have an attention to detail at Garde Manger.
Overall
Garde Manger was one of my best restaurant experiences I have had to date. Food and service were top-notch. I love the laid back vibe at the restaurant. I will definitely be back for a return visit whenever I am in Montreal next. Make you check out Garder Manger whenever you are in the Montreal area!Listed in: Montreal
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Review from Rachel G.
Toronto, ON
5/17/2012
Gorgeous food.
I had the pleasure eating both the lobster poutine and the seafood plate as appetizers. The lobster poutine was dynamic and delicious. An unexpected combination to merge cheese, gravy and lobster together but it works fantastically! The seafood plate was classically good - though the flavours were generic. You could have just as good a seafood plate elsewhere.
As my main course, I had the pork, complemented with veggies and mashed potatoes. The pork was so tender that it almost felt ceremonious. It felt like a religious experience; that epiphanal moment of finding God... anyway, if you luck out and find the braised pork on the menu the next time you go, indulge yourself. My friend had the risotto with equally good reviews.
For dessert, I was not AS impressed. We had the ginger molasses cookie, deep fried Mars bar, and the chocolate brownie. These courses were not quite as inventive as I had anticipated but still quite good. Save a few dollars and get one dessert if you can contain yourself because the menu is not quite as striking.
The atmosphere was warm yet urban. The service was quite amiable and servile ;)
Be wary that the cheque did add up substantially. I believe the poutine alone was about $20. Perhaps consider this restaurant for more special occasions.
I will definitely look forward to coming here again the next time I'm in Montreal. -
Review from Janine T.
3/23/2012
It seems like everyone that adores Garde-Manger is a tourist. We came here for dinner and even though we had a reservation, we were seated in the worst spot possible: in front of a huge pole so that the server could barely see us or our usually empty glasses.
The lobster poutine had maybe 4 little pieces of lobster, pretty sure that it wasn't quite how Chuck made it on the Iron Chef ;) The seafood platter was nothing to write home about: the oysters were 'meh', the shrimp was equally 'meh' but the crab was pretty decent. Our main dishes were equally forgettable: my scallops tasted like half a salt shaker was emptied into the sauce. Also, because of said pole in front of us, the server miscalculated refilling my dates glass and spilled a fairly large amount of expensive red wine all over him; that was a nice touch (didn't even get a free dessert out of that catastrophe).
I do however quite like the atmosphere, the kick ass chandelier, stone walls, central location and the variety of music though, so see, it's not all negative. -
Review from Valerie R.
Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC
5/12/2012
Tonight was my first time at the Garde Manger. An avid Chuck Hughes fan and foodie, I was looking forward to this meal and was not disappointed in the least. We had the famous Lobster poutine, Braised short ribs and the tomato and fried cheddar salad. Fantastic!!!!!! Unfortunately, we had no room for desert. The only downfall is that I didn't get to meet my culinary hero Chuck. Maybe next time, because there certainly will be a next time.
-
Review from Jo E.
3/17/2012
Somehow the Westin concierge got a 7:30p, Saturday reservation for four of us. We are visiting from Illinois and attending the Jazz Fest.
Foods and services were great, the best in the week in Montreal. I recommend the short ribs and lobster salad. -
Review from Max L.
1/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Certainly one of the hardest places I've ever tried to find (or get a reservation for), Le Garde Manger is high on my top Favorite restaurants EVER!
Chuck Hughes' (of Chuck's Day Off) restaurant hits on every gastronomic cylinder. I have been twice and shared almost every dish we ordered, and I still haven't had something I didn't love.
The prices are a bit high (I would be there every single day if they were $10-15 cheaper), but that just makes it more special when you can manage to go. Getting a reservation can be tough, from the fact that the place is tiny, to their erratic phone answering.
The food and atmosphere always lend themselves to a great night out, filled with conversation and laughter, which is what food should ALWAYS do. -
Review from Leah R.
12/28/2011
While on a business trip, this was the one restaurant I was told to go to and splurge on. Make sure to make a reservation, as it's popular but small.
The atmosphere is small with dim lighting, with the menus written on blackboards on the wall above the bar. We started with a great bottle of wine and Lobster Poutine. It arrived to our table piping hot served in a skillet - delicious. The serving size was a bit small, but who really needs to eat THAT MANY fries covered in lobster and gravy? It worked great as an app for 3 of us, and left us all fulfilled. My main dish, risotto to die for. And to finish - deep fried snickers with ice cream.
Dinner that night was extraordinary long, but I enjoyed every minute. -
Review from Mary W.
3/31/2012
Lobster Poutine. Don't think twice.
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Review from Elleni T.
11/13/2011
Getting a reservation was painful. I figured once I had one, the time would be respected. I was way wrong. With a 9:30 reservation, I showed up at 9:20. Was not acknowledged by a head nod nor a simple hello until at least 9:45. Was not seated until 10:15ish. At least a drink was offered to make up for it.
The food was okay. Nothing worth writing home about, or waiting so long for. Especially when the music was horrible and the crowd was loud, obnoxious and had clearly just come from an Ed Hardy photo shoot.
Again, the food was simply okay. The lobster poutine was boring, the scallops were standard and the dessert was basic. Had the food been worth the price, I could have forgiven the atmosphere of the restaurant. -
Review from Michael M.
3/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
lobster poutine + foie gras (traditionally seared) + great ambiance = 4 stars. Would most definitely return.
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Review from jocelyn l.
10/31/2011
4.5*
We went to the restaurant with high hopes and we were not disappointed
The only reservations we got were at 6p even though i called a month prior to make res.
The restaurant ambience is great; dark, rustic, exposed brick walls, low lighting in the middle of the charming Old Montreal
Service was a little odd. Our female server was very accommodating and friendly, translating everything to English from French.
One male server was really quiet and surly. He didn't seem to like responding to "Thank You". ummm
Food:
I thought the prices were quite reasonable.
Our bottle of prosecco was $55- average for restaurants
Lobster Poutine: I love Lobster and I Love Poutines but i did Not love this lobster poutine. Sad but true. The dish was teeny TINY. The fries were skinny and not super hot. The cheese was rubbery, cold and NOT melted through. The pieces of lobsters were tiny and i'm not sure i tasted any of it. And i'm not sure there was much gravy on the poutine (which explains the cold, rubbery pieces of cheese curds)
For $17...a great concept but not well-executed. Disappointing
Seared Scallops with carrot butter and green beans.
Amazing.
The scallops were perfectly seared and tasty. Wonderful flavor and i would have grazed on them all nite long.
I had a taste of my friend's risotto and it was divine as well.
Dessert: Deep-fried mars bar with a scoop of ice cream.
Oh my. that's all i can say.
The restaurant got a little smoky towards the end of our visit...i guess the ventilation in the kitchen could have been better.
But overall, a great experience
Highly recommend for anyone visiting MontrealListed in: Oh Montreal!
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Review from Martin K.
Montréal, QC
11/11/2011
Food is quite good but this place is way too small. I've went there 5 times and always waited like at least 20 minutes at the door. Then you are stuck at your table barely able to move. Note that I am 6 feet 210lbs which is quite standard.
I'll always remember the barmaid forgetting to give me 10 bucks back on a 20 for a beer. Cheap trick to try to stole my money or an accident... I'll leaving the guess to you.
The chef is quite good and I can't complain about his work. -
Review from Gaurav P.
11/30/2011
If you don't like French cuisine, don't bother traveling to Montreal :D...you might as well pack your own food from wherever you're traveling from. Fortunately for me, it's my favorite cuisine so Montreal is heaven, for me at least; 2nd to Paris of course. Restaurant G-M is a good spot and this is why:
Food:
+ Short Ribs. It was written on their blackboard and is one of their staple dishes. It was damn good...a bit salty for my liking but it was done as short ribs should be. Lonnggggggggggggggggggggg slowwwwwwwwwww and falling off the bone when your fork touches it.
Service:
+ It was good, friendly, attentive and "just there."
Fermented Grape Juice:
+ It's a French restaurant and thus the wine list is mostly French wines. I love Bordeaux and thus for me, it was an easy pick :)
I will definitely go back especially because it is located very close to the Westin Montreal (within walking distance)
THIS has been a review by Gaurav -
Review from Mike S.
11/8/2011
I would give it a ZERO if Yelp let me.
That's right. A zero. This was one of my worst restaurant experiences ever. And I've had some bad ones.
When you walk in the door you are ignored for 10-15 minutes as waitresses & employees scurry about. Then you are asked to wait some more as your table isn't ready. They decided to give us a free drink (one positive thing). We waited 45 minutes to sit. Yes.... 45.
We are finally seated, great! We order our food and it arrives in a normal time. One problem, this food isn't anything special, in fact... it's disappointing. Ok, next course. The duck was as tough and bland as an old mans foot. My friend had the short rib. It was better, but nothing special. The best thing I ate was a deep fried Mars bar, made by Mars, not Garde Mange, and even that was overcooked.
Our good friend Chuck wasn't there, and is apparently rarely there and it shows.
They have music played by a character in a funny green hat. Unfortunately the man with the green hat plays the music VERY loud. He likes Purple Rain by Prince, Living on a prayer by Bon Jovi, and Private Dancer by Tina Turner. Odd.
I will finish with the DOUCHE BAGS. They were sitting at the bar. Yelling, screaming, hugging, taking shots, and were quite friendly with the man in the green hat. It was an Ed hardy festival complete with barb wire tattoos. Turns out there were clusters of these people all over the restaurant.
Conclusion... 3 people, 3 free drinks, lousy music, average food, douche bags as far as the eye can see. 300$ Yes... 300$. One bottle of wine! I will never go back. This is NOT the best restaurant in town.
I've lost respect for Bobby Flay. -
Review from Margs L.
Toronto, ON
12/7/2011
This has been one of the best restaurant experiences I have had in a while! I guess celebrity Canadian chefs know what it takes to have a great restaurant.
The best way to describe Garde Manger is going to your most awesome friend's place and hanging out, having fun and eating great!
If I owned a restaurant I would make it exactly like this one.
To start off with, it is true, you do have to reserve early before your visit. I booked 3 weeks before for a late Sunday seating. I was pretty stressed out because my group of friends decided to add 2 people to make the reservation for a total of 6. From what I understood, 6 is the biggest group they accept and I figured it would have been a pain to change at the last minute and that we wouldn't get a seat or be really squished. I called ahead and left a message that I would be needed 2 extra people (after 6 no one picks up the phone so you have to call before). I was amazed that when we arrived, they have received my message but misunderstood and thought I was letting them know that there would be 2 less people. Immediately I thought this was going to be a disaster but they were so accommodating and it happened that a large group left and we were seated right away! No waiting!
Our waitress was one of the most pretty ladies in Montreal. She was also so friendly and helpful. Couldn't of asked for a better server. I also seemed from around that all the servers and staff were picked as the best of the best in the city. Starting from the host to the guy that takes away the empty plates and wow, so much eye candy! (For those that like that sort of stuff ;))
Like mentioned in other reviews, this place is loud! Do not expect quiet classical. More like classic rock for the patrons of this place.
But I digress, all this writing and no mention of food or drink! Like already mention, this is mostly a seafood/meat place. I ordered a caesar with some crab legs (best caesar I have had). I also ordered some oysters (I suggest asking if they have certain things you like because they may not be specifically on the menu or mentioned by the waitress). I also ordered a flank steak with these amazing deep fried mashed potato balls. Delicious. Most of the people at my table ordered a scallop dish and it looked and tasted great. They had a big variety of delicious sounding food and I did have trouble picking just one thing. I guess I am going to have to keep going back. :)
We also ordered some desserts to finish with and they were all wonderful. The ginger molasses cookie was particularly liked by everyone.
Wine list was extensive and a good range of prices.
If you are visiting Montreal like me, or live there, you should definitely go and visit my new friends at Garde Manger. (or at least I think they are my friends). -
Review from Ifoma S.
Waterloo, ON
11/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
There's a reason why Chuck rarely take's a day off.... The food is amazing and the creativity that goes into it comes across in a flavor sensation.
I had duck breast with chorizo sausage and foie gras. Delicious.
For dessert I attempted the peanut butter cookie, w/ peanut butter and raspberry jelly topped w/ ice cream caramel crumble. It's a perversion of the senses. Ask your server to bring 6 spoons just in case you need help finishing it.
I'm definitely look forward to going back. -
Review from Kirby G.
Caraquet, NB
9/10/2011 1 photo
I'm assuming we visited on an "off-night". It pains me to write this because I was extremely excited to dine at Garde Manger and because I'm a fan of l'émission "Chuck's Day Off."
We were a party of 2 and had reservations at the bar - which was fine with us.
We ordered the lobster poutine and tomato/avocado salad for appetizers. The salad was good - had fried mozzarella - good stuff. Selon nous autres vous pouvez trouver une meilleur poutine ailleurs pour moitié le prix... Ughhhh. Again - painful to write.
For main courses, we had the shrimp risotto and Duck breast with foie gras/chorizo. I had the risotto. Mon chum a eu l'autre. His was great - loved it actually. My first risotto was 80% peas, 20% rice - literally. We had to send it back. (I will add a photo of it to prove I'm not trolling here). My second risotto arrived, and had a great rice quantity but .... sandy/gritty spinach.
Our female server at Garde Manger was great. She was attentive and gracious and made us some great gin n tonics, which were unfortunately, for me, the highlight of the night.
Here's hoping it was an "off-night." -
Review from Antoniette C.
9/29/2011
Scale ratings:
1=disliked :(
2.5=moderately liked :|
5= liked very much! :)
Quality of food
*
|--------|-------|--------|--------|
1 2 3 4 5
Fresh ingredients-had the lobster roll and jerk crab legs. Everything cooked perfectly. Definitely paying for quality rather than quantity.
Taste of food
*
|--------|-------|--------|--------|
1 2 3 4 5
Lobster was tender and flavorful and just melted in my mouth--not overdone with the mayo. The bread was enough to contain the mélange of sweet crustacean. The spices in the jerk crab legs were an explosion of flavor --finger lickin' good!
Atmosphere
*
|--------|-------|--------|--------|
1 2 3 4 5
Hip meets rustic, very dim lighting so it was a bit hard to see my food, but 'twas ok once my eyes adjusted. Music was a bit on the louder side but since my table was wedged pretty close to other tables it helped cut through any awkwardness of hearing other conversations!
Service
*
|--------|-------|--------|--------|
1 2 3 4 5
Attentive and friendly! Actually didn't have a reservation but the host was able to give me a table as long as I left before the next reservation (which was an hour and 15 minutes later). Since I had traveled 4600 km from Cali, I'll take any opportunity I can get!
Desire to get a tattoo after eating at Chuck's
*
|--------|-------|--------|--------|
1 2 3 4 5
OVERALL RATING: 4.6 -
Review from nicole h.
9/8/2011
After many, many hours spent watching "Chuck's Day Off," my husband and I made the trip to Montreal to eat at Garde-Manger on our anniversary. And the place is every bit as loveable as it is on TV.
It's not as loud as some other reviewers claim. If you're looking for a quiet, white tablecloth atmosphere, this is not the place for you. But if you want food worthy of that same environment but with much larger portions in a more comfortable, friendly, fun, young atmosphere, then call to make a reservation...like right now.
The servers are super sweet and knowledgable. The music is louder than your string quartet, but is refreshing amidst a plethora of fine dining establishments. And the food is UNREAL. Not surprisingly, bacon made an appearance in the complimentary bread laced with cheese. But we had to save room for: the tomato salad with salty cheddar nuggets, spicy jerk crab leg appetizer, grouper with spanish rice and peel and eat shrimp (with onion ring garnish) and braised short ribs with goat cheese smashed potatoes. We were ridiculously, uncomfortably full. But we enthusiastically ate every morsel. It was hearty. It was amazing. It lives up to the hype. -
Review from Belle M.
8/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Before dining at Garde Manger, I thought I would just encounter terrines and foie gras in Montreals' restaurant scene. I was proven wrong. We managed to get reservations in this very popular, highly acclaimed restaurant on a cold and rainy day in May. The highlight of my meal was the fruits de mer, which had the freshest lobster, crab, oysters, and shrimp I've ever tasted. Prices are affordable, vibe is low key but stylish, and service was friendly.
I will definitely be dining back here when I return to Montreal. My only worry is that it will be so popular that it will even be harder to get reservations. -
Review from Lisa D.
4/10/2012 Seated via OpenTable
This place was great. We had one of the best meals we have ever had here. The waiter was wonderful, the music was great and the wine recommendation was perfect! Wish we lived closer so we could go back again!
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Review from Stacy S.
9/5/2011
We went to Garde Manger at the recommendation of a friend who is also a "foodie" and were very blown away by the experience. We sat at the bar (in the new section in the back of the restaurant), which I prefer so that we can talk to the bartenders and folks around us. What better way to get recommendations than from those in the "know?"
The menu was in French. My partner doesn't speak French, and as soon as the waiter heard me translating, he came over to explain it further. WOW. What customer service.
I started with the steak and eggs with fois gras. It was beyond scrumptious. My partner had the salad which had fresh veggies and these little fried cheese bread "croutons" that were out of this world. Only issue, the portions were huge, and I was pretty full following the apps. For mains, my partner had the lobster risotto which there were no words for how fantastic it was. Huge chunks of lobster and not as much rice as you find in most risottos (which was fantastic to us). The flavors blended and just balanced perfectly. I had fish which was cooked perfectly! All in all, a fantastic dining experience.
But the best part was the interaction with the staff. Tim and (we think) Jason were awesome! They chatted with us all night like we've known each other a million years. They gave us recommendations of other restaurants in the city, even things to do. Seriously, felt like we met new friends. Tim told us about a new restaurant from the folks behind Garde (Le Bremner), and sure enough when we went on Monday - the whole crew was there. Perfection!
Bottom line: GO! The food is fantastic. The ambiance is awesome. And the staff, oh the staff - priceless! -
Review from Anabel L.
Toronto, ON
8/31/2011
This place is "hot".
Perhaps because of the music (it's killer, but really, really loud. Huh? I said it's LOUD). Or the venue (it's hidden and indiscriminate). Or the crowd (hip, trendy, and fun with a side of self-entitlement). Or the atmosphere (it's dark and sexy). Or the chef (Hello Chuck Hughes. That's right, chefs are the rockstars of my generation). But shouldn't it be about the food (here I go)?
Bread n' butter?
Nope, Bread and delicious salmon spread
You absolutely need to make a reservation. My sister and I got the 9:30 seating and thought it'd be great to start with a stiff drink. The daily cocktail was tequila, and although I swore off this ish after 'TequilaGate' Whistler 1998, I threw one back. C'est la vie. It was a fresh grapefruit and soda cocktail that packed a mean punch.
Of the three dishes we ordered, I must have picked two bad ones because my sister was here a few nights ago and she liked it. Don't worry Chef, it happens to many men, it is normal, and it's okay. Or is it me? After all, I ordered.
The beef tartar was good, but there was way too much. I wouldn't normally complain about quantity, but when the tartar is big chunks, after a while, even the biggest carnivore starts to feel cannibalistic.
That's a lot of raw beef...
My second choice was the wreckfish (since Hughes is known for his seafood). I didn't like it. It may be that I wasn't picking up what he was putting down?!?
The dish is still pretty, init?
The night's saving grace was the jerk crab. It was delicious and messy. Oooh, I want to do it again. So yes, I will go back but this time, I won't be ordering. Until then, don't worry Chuck Hughes, I still like youghes. -
Review from Eric V.
Pierrefonds, QC
4/4/2012
Probably the most expensive poutive i have ever ate but worth every penny!
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Review from Claudine G.
Montréal, QC
1/7/2012
If you wanna spend 100$ p.pers. to listen to loud quétaine music, get ignored by the staff and mingle with obnoxious douchbags then that's the place! Made us wait 45 min. with reservation after completely ignoring us for 15 min at arrival. Food is way overpriced. Overcrowded. Forget getting attention or even a smile from any of the staff there. Although, the 2 cops that came in at one point got free drinks... Terrible experience, really felt like the staff thought they were way too cool for us little clients.
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Review from Rob M.
3/12/2012
I went here with my girlfriend (now fiancee) this past Thursday for a celebratory dinner, and couldn't have had a better experience. As an avid fan of Chuck Hughes cooking, I was hoping not to be disappointed but everything from the food, to the service, to the ambience were great. Couple things I would be sure to try, Jerk Snow Crab legs, Braised Short Rib, Lobster Risotto, and Goat cheese with lentils. Next time I'm in Montreal Ill be sure to return.
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Review from Richie S.
I must be getting old, as by the time we showed for our 9:30 reservation, the place was so very dark and blaring some cheesy...but awesome...tunes. Where else would you have a candle-lit dinner with a little mix of Metallica and Run DMC?
We were shown to our table, but kindly moved as soon as we sat down to something a little cozier. Hendricks Gin and tonics to start is always a good sign. Complete with cucumber.
Apps: a dozen oysters with the house vinaigrette, and/or shredded horseradish were great. Right amount of salty brine, meaty buggers that were pretty filling.
Wife had pierogies with lobster, which for $50+ better be good. It turned out to be more lobster (claws, tail and the lot) and less pierogi. The meal was incredible and lucky for me, the broad couldn't eat all of it. It was worth the price.
I had a short rib with spaetzle, broccoli w/ a jalapeno fritter. The meat fell apart with my fork. It was gloriously seasoned and melted in my mouth. I made a mistake in thinking the spice and been cooked out of the jalapeno. Jeebus. Thank God for the ever-full water jug.
Great wine list as well - great choices in price too. As it was my chick's bday, I asked for a sparkler in the birthday-doughnuts she wanted and I'd completely forgotten that they play the HB song over the speakers. She was mortified, I was semi-sloshed and laughing, and as this place turns to more of a bar than a restaurant the later you go in the night, a good portion of patrons sang along and clapped for the Bday girl.
Great night. Great service, too. Some of the friendliest people working I've had the pleasure of meeting. -
Review from D D.
Montréal, QC
5/12/2011
What is wrong with this place. I keep trying to make a reservation. It has been over 5 times. They never call back. They rarely answer the phone. Sure the food is supposed to be great. But who knows. Obviously the place doesn't have to beg for customers since it is well known. But some basic customer service wouldn't hurt.
I did manage to speak to someone on the phone here once and they said that for a weekend (prime social real estate, obviously), you have to make a reservation 1 month in advance at least. What a bunch of 'tards. -
Review from Eleni D.
Toronto, ON
11/30/2010
I love you, Chuck Hughes.
You know the way to my heart: Lobster Poutine.
Garde Manger is absolutely my favourite restaurant in Montreal, and it is not just because I'm a bit of a celebrity chef groupie. The restaurant has a great vibe - it feels warm and cozy, the perfect place to curl up for some comfort food, yet the eclectic music and vibrant clientele make you want to get up and party.
What can I say about the food? I've already mentioned my love for the lobster poutine. The scallops were meaty, flavourful and surprisingly filling. Though I was stuffed from all the food and wine, I couldn't resist the deep fried Mars bar with ice cream for dessert - yum.
My only complaint: it was really, truly, Chuck's day off. -
Review from Ben S.
Toronto, ON
3/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
I loved this place. Really diverse menu of spicy sea food, comfort food, and some refined fine dining.
I had the beef short ribs over a bed of spaetzle, topped with a jalapeno popper. Everything was delicious, the beef was so tender that a sneeze could of pulled it apart (?). The jalapeno popper was amazing, just right amount of heat and crispiness.
The staff are super knowledgeable and friendly.
They were filming for Chuck's Day Off while we were there, gathering shots of the activity of the restaurant.
Overall, it's great restaurant I would visit again and would recommend to people who don't mind a loud restaurant. -
Review from Peter S.
3/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I don't know why I have agonized so much about writing this review. It was such an incredible culinary experience. Two months past, and I am still trying to put it in words.
However, I have come to the conclusion that I can't really explain it well enough to do Garde-Manger justice.
It was truly As Good as it Gets in Montreal.
I like many others wished for a little more light, and the special cocktail was pretty weak for $12 (a shot of Zubrowka and pear pulp). But, Metallica et al. provided an interesting background for the night.
Yay heavy metal and kick-ass food.
Je reviendrai.Listed in: Montreal is definitely La…
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Review from Jason S.
Toronto, ON
11/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great food and the servers really try to make up for the slow kitchen. I was there on a Tuesday night and the place was busy but not full. Sat at the bar near the kitchen so I could see the action. The kitchen is just too small for the size of the restaurant and so things take a bit longer than they should. Excellent food though so if you have a good dining partner (or don't mind drinking) the wait won't seem that long.
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Review from Shaun E.
6/5/2011
Went here after a business trip to Montreal on a Friday around 6:30pm with no reservation (which clearly seems necessary if you aren't going solo. Got a seat at the bar next to the 3 rotating iPod DJ/ Oyster shucker. Stylish folk and not to crazy b/c it was still early. Service was great. The bartender was attentive and helpful.
Went with the tomato salad w/ avocado and those fluffy cheddar croutons which were phenomenal. Best and richest salad I can remember having. Then I went with the halibut which was quite tasty with the veal stock and sitting on a bed of pierogis.
Only caveat is it's a wine place so beer selection was limited and lacking. Had a pilsner from Brewery Montreal that was just blah.
Overall Highly recommend! Go! Go now! -
Review from Gary C.
Carp, ON
11/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
Any place that can stand on its own and not even bother with having a sign outside the door is either pretentious or great.
La Garde-Manger is simply put...GREAT. Teeny tiny out of the way place with a handful of table and a go-go-go attitude and feel without being rushed. The place is can be very dark and almost a little too much so. The person I dined with wasn't able to read the wine menu from their seat due to low levels of light. The place could spare a few extra luxes from the gigantic chandelier that dominates the ceiling.
A word about that wine list...it's good, it's long, it's varied. What it is not, is cheap. Since I'm not in the restaurant business I will never fully understand why wine I can buy at the store triples or quadruples in price when I buy it at the table. That being said you can still find something that is "reasonable" (ish) and will work well with whatever they have to offer that night. If you need help the staff is as knowledgeable about the wine list as they are about the menu.
The menu is ever evolving thing I won't go into the details as to what tried. Suffice it to say that what I ate was incredible well prepared, flavourful, perfect temperature, appropriately spiced and left a great mouth feel/texture. At La Garde-Manger the menu is on the wall (also something hard to read at times cause of the light and people's heads being in the way) and its shows what's fresh today. A good mixed of sea food and other delectable choices there is something there for everyone.
A quick final word about the sound of the place. From entry to exit we heard a upbeat mix of everything from Pink Floyd to Brittany Spears. Fun! -
Review from M J.
1/13/2011
You could walk right by this little hole in the wall, but we didn't. Something said, stop, look again, go back for dinner. We did and we were not disappointed. This was years ago. My only regret - we should have ordered more food. With two people, sometimes you just don't get to taste enough.
Fast forward to today and I see (adorable) chef on TV beating my fave Bobby Flay in a lobster-cetric Iron Chef. 5 dishes of lobster each - swoon. Apparently Chef Hughes has his own show on Cooking Channel. Hope I can get a res the next time I'm in town. -
Review from Randa H.
Montréal, QC
10/20/2010
Been here 3 times and never been disappointed. The décor is great and the waitresses are all gorgeous lovely ladies that seem genuinely nice. I don't mind it, but the place could get loud later on in the night. Now on to the food review. For my last visit, I had the salad of tomatoes, avocado and deep fried cheese croutons as a starter. What can I say except what a way to start off the meal! To follow, the short rib. It definitely did not disappoint this carnivore. I was pretty much done after that. No room for dessert. Maybe next time...
I saw Chuck Hughes (the head chef and owner of Garde Manger) walking the streets of Old Montreal one day. Needless to say it was the highlight of the day. I am a fan of his work!
