Garde Manger is described as a vibrant seafood focused standout in Old Montreal with a warm, lively atmosphere and consistently attentive service; the tasting menu and chef's selections are repeatedly praised for creativity and generosity of seafood, with many dishes described as memorable, though a few guests note pacing issues and that portions can feel small for the price; the bar and wine program receive strong praise for thoughtful pairings, while a minority comment that wine by the glass options lean dry or lack off dry fruity choices; the front of house and kitchen staff are frequently singled out for their energy and hospitality, making the experience feel welcoming and celebratory, and many diners say that Garde Manger offers one of the best seafood experiences in the city and is worth returning to, even if some evenings feel busier or louder and a few reservations about value remain.
Our second time dining at Garde Manger & it was even better than the first. Their vibe is immaculate, food is outstanding, & service is the best. Jihan made our night really special & so memorable. We can't wait to come back during our next visit to Montreal. It is an absolute must & ask for Jihan if you want the best service in the industry.
I was recently in town for work & had heard great things about this place. Decided to try my luck for a walk-in as a nice treat for my birthday & snagged a late-night spot at the back bar. I was blown away by the whole experience! Julian was a joy to chat with & watch work. He clearly knows his craft & is happy to share his knowledge. The food was great to boot. Highlight of my trip!
We were able to get a last minute reservation here during our stay in Montreal & had the best meal we have ever experienced. My husband & I ordered the middle tier tasting menu & each course came out with multiple shared tastings that were beautifully plated & so delicious. The chef chose each course so we had no idea what we would be served & we loved this element of surprise. The seafood platter, lamb, squash, trout, beef carpaccio...omg, everything was perfect! Our server & all of the staff we interacted with were lovely. Wish we lived closer because I would be coming here all of the time! Cheers!
Nov 5, 2023
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The experience was mixed. The food was very good but the service was lacking. Seated at the bar we ordered some seafood & an appetizer. The bartender said "tell me everything you want now, & I will put it all in together - it helps with our flow". I guess he could tell by the look on my face that I was more concerned with our flow than his so he put the order in. Our reso was for 9:15 & we were seated closer to 9:30PM The bartender & other staff were overly focused on two guests at the bar buying them shots. In the hour & half we were there our bartender must have done 5 shots. Pretty sure that those were not his first. The effect on the service was disappointing. We wanted to order dessert but after sitting with our empty plates in front of us for 10 minutes while the repetitive shot ritual continued at the other end of the bar we decided to pay up & leave. Dinner for two with a bottle of wine & cocktails $350
Top notch restaurant that was unique! We were a group of 8, & the lead waiter & his team took care of us well with a five course meal. Once, I said I was vegetarian, & they never questioned anything, but they brought me delicious vegetarian creations for all five courses! I think they wantedly don't have a restaurant name sign! See the picture where the sign is displayed! 😲
Oct 26, 2023
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Best of the best in Montréal! Food is delicious, service is top notch. The tasting menus give the opportunity to experience the restaurant as a whole. Gluten-free options were also accommodated �
Très belle expérience, excellent service les plats étaient savoureux endroit difficile à trouver pour la première fois.
Merci à notre serveur Jordan & à la gentillesse de notre sommelière Jessica.
Amazing food, service, & ambience/music. My husband & I did the tasting menu & they were able to accommodate my gluten allergy. The entire experience was fantastic. Cannot recommend enough!
Sep 28, 2023
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Ordered the mid range Chef's Menu & it was phenominal. Service was fantastic but the food was even better. Higly recommend putting your experience in the Chef's hands.
We had an excellent meal here with absolutely brilliant service from Claudio Franco as well as others. The spicing was done perfectly & the menu was interesting. We would go back again tomorrow if we hadn't reserved elsewhere. The only minor thing was the overly loud music from the 80's.
Julian is the most incredible shucker/server I’ve ever had. He is shrimply the best at what he does. Jihan is also amazing. He reminds me of a more attractive Johnathan Richman & I mean that in the best way possible. If you don’t go here, you’re silly.
