Remember that little show called Cheers? What stood out the most? To us, it was the fact that every time someone walked into that cozy little joint, everyone knew each other, from the waiters to the bartenders, to the owners. Sometimes we just need a place to go to that’s not home but feels like it to unwind, relax, listen to some great tunes and eat some plain old good food.
That place to us is L’Orignial. Nestled on a little side street on Notre Dame Street in the European-esque neighbourhood of Old Montreal, a Moosehead appears. Now if you haven’t been here before, it might be easy to miss. The beautifully crafted cottage-styled entrance is a few steps down from the neutral toned sign, so keep your eyes open and stumble over the cobblestone to get in. Once inside, a warm chalet-style interior greets you alongside the best playlist a restaurant can offer. It’s a mix of 80s, classic rock, indie and anything else that will make you want to sing along and just feel good inside.
Now lets talk food. The menu isn’t too big or too small, just right on point. We have tried every appetizer on the list and can honestly say you can’t go wrong with any of them. If we had to pick, we would go for the tuna tartar, the mini lamb sliders and of course their famous oysters. If your lucky enough to be there when oyster shucker extraordinaire Daniel Notkin prepares them for you, be ready to hear poetry about each of your oyster’s origins – he’s a master at it.
The mains consist of dishes for the sea and meat lover. The miso and tamari marinated black cod, celery root puree, sauteed shiitake mushrooms, and Braz potatoes in a mushroom broth is exquisite and melts in your mouth. For the heavier duty eaters, try the unique grilled deer steak in creamy polenta with roasted mini chiogga beets and marinated zucchini.
If your in the mood for neither, a nice alternative is the creamy risotto with grilled homemade merguez, roasted red pepper purée, marinated onions, and king oyster mushrooms.
For poutine lovers, check out their truffle poutine on the late night menu and leave your calorie fears at home; it’s well worth it!
As if all of the above ingredients aren’t enough to get you there, the staff is beyond gold. They’re super friendly, welcoming, and the place starts feeling like a family unit once you frequent it. Ask for Michael Terlecki, a member of the family that runs the restaurant, he is quite the host and entertainer.
Call for reservations, it tends to get busy; especially on weekends.