Chef Monsta: I cook, therefore I blog

I recently went on a trip to one of my favorite cities, Montreal. I always dine on local delicacies when I visit, and this vacation was no different. I have a special place in my heart for this Canadian city that I called home for four years.

My friend Wendy works for www.ourfaves.com, which is a Canadian user-review site that is similar to www.Yelp.com. The site is expanding to other Canadian cities (right now it only exists in Toronto) and she has asked me to help her write some reviews for the Montreal Beta version. I am going to post these reviews in case you are planning a trip to our neighborhood to the north! Bon Apetit!

Ginger Restaurant. 16 Avenue Des Pins E. (514) 844-2121
Ginger remains one of the city’s best Japanese and sushi restaurants. The ambiance includes dim lighting, chill-music, and a modern yet cozy décor. Although their service is subpar, the food definitely makes up for it. They continue to deliver fresh and innovative maki. Their standout roll is the “Kamikaze”, which has salmon, tempura, cucumber, avocado, spicy mayo and roe. Other hits include their shrimp pad thai and salmon teriyaki. And after a few rounds of their signature Lychee martini, you sare sure to leave satisfied.

Downside: slow service
Upside: free sake bombs if you complain about the slow service!

Restaurant L’Avenue. 922 Avenue de Mont-Royal E. (514) 523- 8780
Breakfast is the specialty at L’avenue and doesn’t dissapoint. After waiting on line in the Montreal cold for at least a half hour, they definitely reward you with heaping portions. Their herbed breakfast potatoes, smoothies, and burgers are legendary. Infinite breakfast options include over 3 pages of omelets, egg benedicts, crepes, and more. A Bonus feature is their psychedelic bathroom that has a tv and 4 way mirror which makes you feel even more hungover.

Downside: long line-ups, no english menus availiable, rude waiters
Upside: city’s best breakfast