Dandy operates as a sophisticated bistro that emphasizes the intersection of artisanal culinary techniques and market-driven ingredients. The interior design reflects an industrial aesthetic characterized by high ceilings and expansive windows that illuminate the open dining area. Menu offerings focus on elevated classic dishes, featuring thick-cut sourdough toasts topped with seasonal produce and house-made ricotta. The kitchen consistently utilizes fresh, locally sourced components to construct balanced plates that favor structural simplicity over complex plating. Patrons experience a lively atmosphere where the focus remains strictly on the quality of the prepared food and the functionality of the workspace. This establishment balances the casual nature of a market-inspired café with the technical precision of a focused bistro kitchen. Every element, from the beverage selection to the curated seasonal vegetables, demonstrates a commitment to ingredient-led preparation methods.
Online reservations are not currently offered through this listing for Dandy. However, you can call them directly at (514) 289-9996 to inquire about table availability.
Dandy is widely celebrated for its exceptional brunch offerings, particularly the ricotta pancakes, which many guests describe as the best they have ever tasted, and the crispy fried chicken sandwich, which frequently earns high praise for its quality and flavor. Visitors consistently highlight the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the beautiful, modern atmosphere that makes the restaurant a must-visit destination in Old Montreal. While the popularity of the spot often results in lines, especially on weekends, many guests feel the delicious meals, vibrant energy, and attentive, welcoming service provided by the professional staff make the experience entirely worth the wait.
I ordered the fried chicken sandwich. One word AMAZING!!! Hubby had the pancakes topped wirh strawberries which was just as delicious. The meal was worth every penny. Our visit to Montreal was 5 days & we visited twice. This place is a must to add to your itinerary.
Dandy has been on my list forever, & with the constant lineups & hype around it, I was really looking forward to finally trying it. We went on a Monday at 10 a.m. & still had to wait in line, which is kind of crazy.
The space is cute & the service was good. We ordered the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, ricotta pancakes, fingerling potatoes, & the Endless Summer breakfast.
The fried chicken sandwich had a really nice brioche bun & decent slaw, but the chicken kept sliding out & overall I've definitely had better fried chicken sandwiches. The fingerling potatoes were easily the highlight - fantastic, especially with the aioli. The bacon could've been cooked a little more for my taste.
The ricotta pancakes were good, but again, I've had better. I did LOVE the brown sugar maple syrup though. The Endless Summer breakfast was alright, but nothing really stood out.
Overall, the food was decent, the vibes were cute, & the service was solid - but nothing blew me away enough to understand the amount of hype or the constant lineups. I'm glad I finally tried it, but I wouldn't wait around for it again.
Went there first lunch today. There was a line outside since they don't take reservations. My hubby & I didn't wait long & got seated in about 10 minutes. I ordered chicken salad, & sourdough bread & a fried egg as extras. Everything was so fresh & yummy. Highly recommend the chicken salad if you like crunchy ones. My hubby ordered the smoke salmon sandwich with tomatoes & greens. He loved it too. Super fresh!
Wait staff was lovely. The kitchen seemed a bit backed up, so we had to wait a little longer for our food than we expected, but I had a delicious spritz to keep me occupied during the wait, so all was well. Then, once the food arrived, it was so freaking good that we stopped caring that there was a wait at all. The buttermilk fried chicken sandwich was hands down the best I've ever had in my life. My dining companion had the halloumi focaccia & raved over her sandwich too. It was a wonderful addition to our day.
This was our second time at Dandy.The first time, we had a great experience, but unfortunately, today was completely different.
I ordered the cottage cheese pancakes with strawberries. The pancakes were extremely dry, almost like cardboard. I also paid an extra $5.50 for strawberries & literally received five strawberries, bringing the dish to $26.50 for dry pancakes & five strawberries.
My boyfriend ordered the fried chicken sandwich, which was also very disappointing. The bun was soggy, & the chicken didn't even seem fried. It was bland & had none of the crispy texture you would expect from a fried chicken sandwich.
Also, it took 55 mins to get are food & we arrived at opening. A table of 7 that got seated after us got served first & had order same dishes as us, very disappointing.
We spent around $80 & left extremely disappointed. For that price, there are so many better & less expensive places in Montreal. Unfortunately, we won't be coming back.
I can't say enough good things about this place. Friendly Service, interesting lemonade & the best chicken sandwich!!!!! Nicolas & others are outstanding. Keep up the great work.