Brunch the Chinese Way

The Pitch

Asian food has come a long way in the past five years or so.  Montreal has always had its classic, longstanding fixtures such as Mon Nan and PM for Cantonese or Kam Fung for dim sum.  However, a new breed of Chinese and Pan-Asian restaurants have expanded the market.  From modern takes at Gia Ba and Orange Rouge to fusion fare at Cho and Thazard, it seems there was no new frontier to conquer – until now!

After reinventing the dim sum experience with a creative spin on dumplings, Old Montreal's Jiao has just introduced a spanking-new brunch menu.  After visiting and enjoying this spot for lunch last year and dinner earlier this year, I gladly accepted an invitation to sample the new offering.

tagged:  BRUNCH

The Mood

A happening, packed-to-the-gills spot by night, the daytime turnout is modest in comparison.  Although this is to be expected as brunch was only recently launched at Jiao.  Day or night though; hip hop beats were again at the rendez-vous in the cozy/cool, Chinese lantern-adorned space.

tagged:  GROOVY TUNES

The Food

Just when you thought you've seen everything that can be done with eggs, potatoes and other brunch staples, along comes something new!  Chicken ‘n' waffles and steak ‘n' eggs have been given the Chinese treatment with General Tao chicken and stir-fried beef.

Plating is beautiful and colorful and the taste is spot on; I only wish the fried chicken was crispier and stickier.  Choices are limited with only three main dishes listed, although a selection of beefed-up dumplings is available and makes a great side option to share with your party.

$14

$14

Yeung Hai Kim

"crab claw stuffed with shrimp, snow crab & garlic"

$19

$19

General Jiao & Waffles

"crispy fried chicken, red velvet cake & maple syrup"

$23

$23

Jiao Steak & Eggs

"striploin & fried eggs"

The Verdict

Just as Jiao established itself as a game changer of dim sum with its pimped-up dumplings, so it seems with its new brunch.  And although a visit here could set you back a cool $40 – for a plate, side and mimosa – there is no denying this is one of the freshest, most vibrant and instagrammable takes on brunch I have seen of late.

Price per person:  $35