Le Violon

Meezly

4.0

I really miss La Maison Publique & was so pleased when I had heard that Danny Smiles was taking over the location. Came in with high expectations & was left somewhat underwhelmed. At first, I had to make a paradigm shift as I loved LMP's charming rustic interior & to see the space transformed into an elegant dining space full of light with a clean white & beige colour scheme took a few moments to adjust. First off, everything was really nice & pleasant: the service, drinks, food & atmosphere. But nothing really stood out in an exceptional way. The ingredients were fresh & of good quality for my fennel salad & fish, & the flavours were subtle & pleasant (yes that word again). So there was never really a "wow" moment where I was wow, this is sooo good! It was also very expensive. My friend & I had cocktails, starters, a glass of wine with our main dish, & shared a dessert. My portion was $112 including tip. Yet I was left still feeling slightly unsatisfied. I've had similar meals at places like Le Majestique where I left feeling I had a deliciously satisfying meal & the bill was a good $25-30 less. I would say the food exactly reflected the interior design: elegant yet safe, minimalist & beige, as if saying: here at Le Violon, there is nothing too bright or colourful to pop out & jar you from the tranquil yet slightly bland surroundings. I know I keep comparing it to Le Maison Publique, but it's as if Le Violon was intentionally created to be in stark contrast to its predecessor. The problem is that it all feels somewhat self-conscious & soulless, like a younger person's idea of what a fancy, upscale restaurant should be for a 30-something clientele. This is really a place one would go to impress a first date (most of the clientele seemed to be straight couples), & it's not really a place where you'd go regularly, like a neighbourhood joint (what LMP used to be), unless you have a fat pocketbook! I'm glad I gave Le Violon a try, but I don't have much desire for a return visit, unless I have a lot of money to throw for a special occasion.

Stacy

5.0

NY fine dining in Montreal. Charming, bright, fresh, friendly atmosphere. Food is superb. Many unique combinations, spices, etc. Chef Danny Smiles on prem, active in preparation. I can recommend.

Alexander

5.0

Awesome new restaurant in Montreal. We tried it within the first few weeks of opening, & everything was impeccable. The decor & vibe really set the mood for the culinary experience to come. Fresh, meticulously prepared ingredients with great flavours. On the pricier end of the spectrum, but don't let that stop you from trying it!

CherryPie

5.0

Great experience! Located on a really cute corner in le Plateau. The friendliest service. Really was that neighborhood feel as described. Cozy with elegance. Attention to detail. Food was delicious really yummy & quality fresh ingredients!

Catherine

5.0

Right out of a Parisian neighborhood, Le Violon takes you on a beautiful voyage of taste & sight. The decor is stunning, fresh & welcoming. The original artwork of Dan Climan is a feast for the eyes & the incredible, fresh dishes a feast for the palate! Congratulations to the entire team.