Persian Vibes & Culture

The Pitch

Although the country of Iran recently made headlines for dire, war-related reasons, the Persian community here in Montreal continues to thrive.  On the dining front, numerous establishments have opened of late representing the Middle-Eastern country.

These typically fall into one of two categories: cafes/tea rooms and restaurants.  A new entrant since last summer in the restaurant category is Maison Inja, which comes from the ownership duo behind Café Aunja, subject of today's brunch review.

tagged:  BRUNCH

The Mood

Open since 2013, Aunja – there in Farsi – occupies the lower level of a Sherbrooke Street greystone in downtown's prestigious Golden Square Mile.  More than an Iranian café/tea house, the kitchen suggests a full breakfast menu in addition to sandwiches and salads.

The space is very eclectic, mixing elements from traditional Persian homes with vintage electronics and other collectibles.  The room was quiet when we showed up around noon, but filled up soon after with an Anglo crowd; a lineup eventually formed at the ordering counter.

tagged:  ANGLO CROWD

The Food

The breakfast/brunch menu comprises various plates suggesting an all-in-one approach.  Most of them are served in pretty tin plates with Iranian bread, while the rest permutes around eggs, sausages, tomatoes, potatoes, cheese, olives and jams.  The full breakfast even comes with a hearty lentil soup to start.  Clearly this is a spot for savoury brunches – as they should be! – with minor sweet touches.

Drink options abound, from herbal teas, coffees and cold drinks to a Persian fog – which I tried on a previous occasion – and – my favourite – majoon.  The latter is an Iranian concoction of milk, banana, dates, coconut powder and various nuts.  The one here is less nutty than others I have tried, but was still enjoyable.

The Service

Ordering at Café Aunja takes place at the counter where you also pay at the cash machine.  You then take a seat wherever you please, following which the staff bring you your food and drink.  Service was well paced today, with the soup arriving a few minutes before the rest.  Tables were also cleared and wiped shortly after patrons left them.

The Verdict

Above one may notice I did not delve deeply into whether the food was good or not.  Yes, I did enjoy it; but Café Aunja is more interested in community and culture.  That is why they host art exhibitions and musical performances at times, in addition to banning laptops.  Here, it's all about connecting with an age-old civilization and exchanging with others, while also enjoying a warming/refreshing drink and a bite.

tagged:  SOLID