CASAVANT RESTAURANT - MONTREAL
We discovered the Casavant just over a month after it opened in September 2023, and fell under its spell. Nestled on the corner of Castelnau Street in the heart of Villeray, it's a stone's throw from the Jean-Talon market. Although space is limited, the warm atmosphere is undeniable. The decor, both chic and sober, creates the ideal setting for a memorably intimate evening.
Our visit on a Sunday evening revealed a near-capacity venue, foreshadowing a promising success. The menu, though limited to just 11 courses, offers a memorable culinary experience. Each dish is carefully crafted, underscoring the need for impeccable execution. From burnt corn with garlic flower to beef tartare with smoked mackerel, every choice was delicious. The tartare, perfectly seasoned, brought out the freshness of the beef in a surprising way.
More substantial dishes, such as the tarte provençale and the homemade pork shoulder sausage with mashed potato, also won our approval. The tarte provençale was a tribute to the freshness of summer vegetables, although unfortunately short-lived on the menu. The seemingly simple sausage revealed an explosion of flavors, perfect for a slightly chilly autumn evening.
The minimalist menu may be a challenge for discerning palates, but the cuisine, though classic in its recipes, won us over. Our only choice of dessert, the olive oil cake with blueberries, proved to be a delight. The limited selection may not appeal to everyone, but for us, every dish was a successful taste experience.
The exceptional service, marked by unrivalled kindness, added to our overall satisfaction. Despite the succinct menu, our experience was perfect, and we plan to return without hesitation.
Price: $$
Quality of food: 4.5
Quality of service: 5
Design, cleanliness and ambiance: 5
Quality-price: 4.5
350 Rue de Castelnau East, Montréal, QC H2R 1P9
438-380-0970
