Opened on September 13th, Balam is one of the first table-service restaurants to launch in the Royalmount urban park. Following the two La Catrina locations (Vieux-Port and Mile-End) and the Boqueria tapas restaurant, Balam becomes the fourth and largest establishment of the La Catrina group. This 2,500-square-foot restaurant offers 75 seats, including 15 at the central bar, and will soon feature a three-season terrace with 70 seats.
Mexican cuisine reimagined with a Montreal twist
Chef David Melo Rubio (Boqueria), originally from Colombia, has crafted a menu that honors the roots of Mexican cuisine while giving them a modern twist. With experience in Michelin-starred restaurants in New York, Spain, Portugal, and London, David brings his impressive culinary skills to Balam, offering creative and authentic dishes.
At Balam, fresh local products are combined with imported ingredients to create a unique culinary experience, with a distinct Montreal flavor. The restaurant's smoker infuses dishes with rich smoky flavors, from corn for a soup with mushrooms, jalapenos, and cilantro to smoked tomatoes for guacamole. Whole fish and smoked duck are served in tacos with radishes, Serrano onions, and crispy tomatillos. The menu features a range of dishes, from tacos and ceviches to Cornish hen with mole sauce and bone-in ribeye, each bursting with flavor. Fresh tortillas are handmade daily for an extra authentic touch.
A cocktail menu by Nectar & Mixologie
The cocktail list has been created by Nectar & Mixologie, led by Lawrence Picard. Signature drinks like the Temazcal (Mezcal, Saint-Germain, passion fruit, lime juice, habanero) and Humo Sagrado (Mezcal, hibiscus syrup, ginger beer) are served under a smoke dome for a striking presentation and a one-of-a-kind taste.
A Tulum-inspired décor
The design of Balam, created by Renard Flare studio and designer Maude Coudé, is meant to transport guests to the landscapes of the Riviera Maya. The owners, Charlotte and Emiliano, shared memories of their travels to Tulum with the designer. Emiliano, who spent part of his childhood in Tulum, introduced Charlotte to the area in 2016, and she fell in love with its natural beauty.
The name "Balam," meaning "jaguar" in Mayan, refers to a symbol of Mayan culture and the deep connection to nature. The beige stucco walls evoke the texture of sand, while the abundance of exotic plants and rounded alcoves mimic the ocean waves. The straw light fixtures add a warm, organic touch to the space.
"We wanted to create an atmosphere where guests can unwind, have fun, and relax-just like spending a day at the beach," says Maude Coudé of Renard Flare.
To complement the festive ambiance, a DJ will perform on Friday and Saturday nights, and the bar will remain open after the kitchen closes for guests who want to enjoy more of the delicious cocktails.
