Restaurant Idea in Montreal
When looking for the best places to eat in Montreal, L’Orignal restaurant should definitely be on your list. This hidden gem in Old Montreal offers an amazing dining experience with its warm and cozy atmosphere. Stepping inside feels like entering a winter ski chalet mixed with a summer cottage. The restaurant also keeps the music at a comfortable level, adding to the relaxing ambiance. With its rich history and delicious menu, L’Orignal is definitely one of the most amazing restaurants in Montreal that you won’t want to miss.
L’Orignal restaurant has a rich history that dates back to 1911, when it was originally built as a fur trading post. The name “L’Orignal” translates to “moose” in French, paying homage to the animal that is native to Canada. The restaurant still maintains its rustic charm with exposed brick walls and wooden beams, making for a truly unique dining experience.
The menu at L’Orignal is a fusion of French and Canadian cuisine, incorporating local ingredients and flavours. Their dishes are prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail, making each bite a delicious and memorable one. Some must-try items on their menu include the seared foie gras, bison tartare, and Quebec duck breast.
Located on a small side street in Old Montreal, you will more than likely be in the area at some point during your visit. It is just west of Notre Dame.
At the time of writing, a taxi or uber to L’Orignal from the major hotels in the downtown core was about $12.00 to $15.00 cad depending on traffic. The streets in Old Montreal are narrow and quickly can clog up. So, plan your time carefully.
There is one transit bus down to the port area. From there you would need to take a short walk up to the restaurant. Use Notre Dame as your point of reference.
Overall, the location will get an A from me.
Restaurants with Atmosphere in Montreal
As I previously stated, the atmosphere is a cross between an apres-ski chalet and a summer cottage dining room.
I found it quiet enough that you could easily carry-on a conversation. The music was not overbearing but a pleasant playlist.
Since the restaurant is on the lower level of the building, there is not a lot of natural light filtering into the restaurant. However, the interior that has been installed gives the place a warm, golden glow.
The atmosphere is an A.
L'Orignal's Menu
For me, the menu at L’Orignal is perfect. They are not trying to be everything for everyone. It is simple with selections that use locally sourced seasonal produce.
When I originally scoped the restaurant out, I had planned on the bison burger. Three visits later I still haven’t ordered the bison burger.
One final thing is that beyond the regular menu, they will have specials that will knock your socks off. (Example – on my first visit, I went for the bison burger and ended up having their surf and turf special that day. It was a lot more than I anticipated paying but worth every penny.)
The menu gets my A+.
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Fabulous Food in Montreal
As you can guess, I am going to rave about the food. I have been to this restaurant three times now and will be going back again.
While I won’t go through each and every visit, I will highlight my favourite dishes. First, was the “surf’n’turf” of my first visit. A filet mignon topped with a lobster tail with season vegetables. The lobster tail was perfectly cooked and if it is possible the filet was melt in your mouth excellent.
Many of you are probably not fans of oysters. But the shareable oyster’s appetizer is recommended. With a couple of sauces to try with it, these are a great start to a date night meal.
The next main that I will rave about is the octopus with seasonal vegetables. Again, this appears to be an off-menu special based on availability. If it is, have it! Octopus is not cooked correctly and can be spongy and chewy. On this night, it was cooked perfectly. The knife sliced easily through it. It was not in the least bit chewy.
Finally, any of the desserts are the best way to end your meal. Get a special coffee and a dessert whether it is the sticky toffee pudding or maybe a special pie not on the menu (mine was a coconut cream pic). You will want that Uber back to your hotel.
A+ is the highest rating that I can give the food. I would go higher if I could.
L'Orignal Service and Staff
I can’t say enough about the staff. Each time they were friendly yet not overbearing. They were willing to give suggestions whether it was for drinks or food items.
Each time the server took time to explain the specials. Language was never a barrier.
Here comes my only slightly negative comment: On two of the three occasions, the time between finishing the appetizers and the main was a little too long. This left the main on the cooler side of warm. But the mains were so good, I couldn’t be bothered complaining.
Here the team gets an A-.
Senior Travel Note: Accessibility
Now for us seniors with mobility issues accessing the restaurant could be a problem. Be aware as I stated earlier that the restaurant is on the lower level of the building. You must navigate ten to fifteen narrow steps to get to the seating area. There are handrails but as darkness sets in outside it could be a challenge.
Finally remember that the restaurant is located in old Montreal. The streets are cobblestone. I recommend bringing a walking cane for extra support.
Accessibility gets a B-.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this hidden gem nestled in the heart of Old Montreal shines with its cozy atmosphere, reminiscent of balmy summer nights at the cottage or a snug après-ski moment. With its well-curated menu, L’Orignal strikes a perfect balance, offering a diverse array of dishes that cater to varied palates without overwhelming choice. Each carefully prepared dish speaks volumes of quality and is sure to offer value for money, with flavours that impress and satisfy.
The warmth of the establishment is amplified by its super friendly and helpful staff, ensuring every visit is as delightful as the food served. Despite the charm of its cobblestone access and the picturesque descent to the entrance, it’s worth noting that the restaurant’s accessibility might pose a challenge for some. Nonetheless, the experience waiting within L’Orignal is one that shouldn’t be missed.
If your journeys take you down to Old Montreal, let L’Orignal be a stop on your itinerary. Whether you’re a local in pursuit of new tastes or a traveller looking to satiate your culinary curiosity, this eatery promises an enchanting escape and dishes that are bound to make your evening. So don’t hesitate – stop into L’Orignal for an unforgettable dining experience!
Please note: The opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences after 40-plus years of business and vacation travel. My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours. Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Most of all have happy travels and see you out there on the road!
Al of Al Murray Travel & Photography: From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world.
My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona. I spent more time on trains and buses than I did in class.
After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way. But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education!
It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again. First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.
I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.