Tucked away in a hidden section of the big-box store mecca known as Marché Central is a little-known breakfast-and-more spot conveniently named Bistro du Marché. A relative of ours recommended this eatery about a decade ago; since then we've been hitting it up occasionally for some pre-shopping morning grub – be it in the same car-friendly complex or its neighbor the Rockland Centre.
tagged: EARLY BIRD TAKE THE CAR
Although the sunlight-flooded dining room seldom fills up during the early weekend shift, the bistro is quite popular with blue-collar workers – presumably due to the vicinity of the Metropolitan Autoroute. Otherwise, you are bound to run into a handful of families with kids from the neighborhood – as ours accompanied us today.
tagged: BRING THE KIDS WORKING-CLASS HANGOUT
The restaurant's cohabitation with the Quebec Produce Growers Association seems to hint at a farm-to-table collaboration between the two bodies – although we could not confirm this. The breakfast menu lists the usual suspects found at countless other dejeuner/dîner spots; variations of omelettes and benedicts are followed by crepes, french toast and other "classics". For later in the day, a brunch menu adds croques, paninis and burgers.
Although we don't expect sharp, polished service at a breakfast joint, we have noticed deterioration on that front over the years here. The motherly matante types from years ago have been replaced by a mixed-age staff that is often brusque and quasi-inept. Our choice of table was rejected with a snap, while our waiter had to be repeatedly reminded for staples such as butter, syrup and coffee refills.
tagged: DO YOU MIND?
Granted the egg-centric breakfast/lunch angle has been done to death around town, the Bistro du Marché does have a minor edge on the competition with its non-chain-y vibe and farmers' connection – assuming that's your shtick. Otherwise, the offering is standard-issue fare; with the standout being the deliciously fresh fruit accompanying most plates.
tagged: PLAN B.
Price per person: $11.92
Montreal restaurant and bar reviews brought to you by two regular guys who like to eat and drink. We will go anywhere and we will say it like it is.