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.
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.
Passez votre chemin. N'allez pas là. Je ne suis pas du type à faire des critiques défavorables. Je comprends qu'un tel lieu tendance doit avoir un coût de local hyper cher a payer & que cest un secteur hyper touristique de Montréal mais ceci étant dit, il y a des limites à tordre l'éponge. J'ai pris leur'sandwich' au poulet frit à 23,99$ alors on est en droit de s'attendre à quelque chose à la hauteur quand on te parle de remoulade & de chimichurri. En fait c'était un foutu petit burger garni de croquette de poulet frit hyper huileux avec une tonne de panure. J'ai pris la peine d'ouvrir une de ces croquettes & à l'intérieur c'était de faible morceaux de poulets bas de gamme brun. Loin d'une généreuse portion de poitrine de poulet de chair blanche. La remoulade était en fait un mince filet de pommes râpées & le chimichurri une banale mayo... & comble de l'attrappe-touriste, aucun accompagnement à ce prix. Heureusement la serveuse était vraiment sympathique & le jeune homme qui desservait les tables m'a demandé si j'aimais & en lui répondant en riant 'je trouve ça très bas de gamme', m'a fait un signe de compréhension & de compassion. J'ai fini avec une galette pour emporter. & grâce à la serveuse qui m'a dit'je devrais vous servir celle-ci, mais je vous en offre une fraîchement préparée.' Montréal comme paradis culinaire a bien meilleur à vous offrir avec une offre honnête, généreuse & à un prix digne de ce que vous méritez.
Food was good. Pancakes were delicious. Hubby had the chicken sandwich. So big he couldn't bite into it with out removing one of the chickens on it. He really liked though. People were nice but it does feel a little cramped. Would go again.
Love this place always. I've been several times now & I am never disappointed. The pancakes are fluffy & delicious. I had the salmon toast this time & it was very good, fresh & flavourful. The portions are generous, the coffee is good & the service is good. Note that it gets quite loud in there, I know some people dislike that. Worth it 100% though!
Très bon brunch, les assiettes étaient vraiment succulentes & le menu plus original que la plupart des places à déjeuners!
Seul bémol, l'ambiance est un peu plus froide qu'elle paraît sur les photos.
Mis à part ça le service était très bon.
Dandy's was a wonderful Sunday brunch experience all around! We arrived at the peak time & waited for a short time, but the staff kept busy & the tables turned. The dining area table arrangement was so unique, offering neighborly banter or privacy. We enjoyed brief exchanges with both our neighbors on either sides, which certainly enhanced our positive experience of the restaurant & the city!
The food selection was limited but inclusive of brunch favorites with Dandy's special prep! I ordered the fried chicken sandwich & loved it. I only wished I could have also ordered the pancakes. Two cocktails are included in our final bill, plus gratuity. I thought it was reasonably priced.
The service was attentive, courteous & friendly. I couldn't ask for more.
Dandy's is a bustling hotspot that draws crowds, especially on weekends when you might find yourself waiting in line for about 30 minutes. So, is the wait worth it? Personally, I'd say not quite. But if you happen to stroll by when there's no queue, it's definitely worth a try.
Our main reason for visiting was to indulge in their renowned ricotta pancakes. Some reviews compare them to the pancakes at OEB Breakfast Co., which you can find in Vancouver & Toronto. In my honest opinion, they don't really compare - OEB still takes the crown. Dandy's pancakes are dense & tend to stick to your sides longer, which might appeal to some. If lemon flavor is your thing, great. Otherwise, ask for lemon cream on the side. The salad we ordered was nice but didn't really stand out.
Wait was about a half hour at 1pm on Sunday, but so worth it! Our group ordered the ricotta pancakes, fried chix sandwhich, & endless summer. All were delicious & mind blowing. Ricotta pancakes were dense (in a good way!).
