A Snapshot in Time

The Pitch

As a restaurant blogger, I feel inclined to primarily cover new restaurants and trending dishes; but will always make room for old-fashioned institutions.  While biking in Saint-Henri along Notre Dame Street today, my eye caught the venerable Greenspot.  Having never been to this greasy spoon while sober, I figured I would give it a try in full possession of my faculties for a change.

The Mood

Open since 1947, Greenspot is as close as can be to diners from that era.  Some patrons present today were probably born around the same time; this joint is popular with seniors.  The booths, tabletop jukeboxes & mid-century character convey a dose of nostalgia or escapism, depending on one's age.

tagged:  GEEZER GATHERING

The Food

Known as a classic casse-croûte, Greenspot's menu in fact goes way beyond diner fare.  Staples such as hot dogs, burgers and poutines (27 of them!) are followed by subs, steaks, deli fare (smoked meat, club & other sandwiches), Greek specialties (souvlaki & gyro), Italian dishes (pizza and pasta) and breakfast essentials.

The options are confounding and endless, but I come here for two simple reasons: beef hot dogs and glass coke bottles.

$4.25

$4.25

Nathan's Grilled Beef Hot Dog

A standard Montreal toasté comes simply topped with mustard and chopped cabbage – who needs anything else?  The wiener has a nice crisp to it and is pillowed in a toasted, buttered bun.

$7.85

$7.85

Classic Poutine

Simply put, this is one of the better diner poutines out there.  The fries are meaty/crispy, the curds are generous and the gravy – while poured heavy-handedly – is dark, beefy and flavorful.

tagged:  YOU MAKE ALL THIS?

The Service

Equally old as the clients at Greenspot are some staff members.  There is a palpable camaraderie between regulars and longtime waitresses.  Mine was a little dry while remaining courteous and available.  My order was promptly taken and my food arrived soon after; perfect for a quick bike break.

The Verdict

If Greenspot managed to survive for close to three quarters of a century, it is due to Montrealers' love affaire with casse-croûtes and this particular one's consistency and reliability.  Trends will come and go, but our appetite for an old-fashioned hot dog and a comforting poutine will never fade away; and landmarks such as Greenspot will be there to satiate this craving.

It may be tempting to adopt a snobby attitude and look down on this sort of basic, no-frills dining; but this neighborhood fixture – in addition to dishing out dependable fare – is an endearing reminder of a bygone era.

tagged:  SOLID

Price per person:  $12.10