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Restaurant Top Pick

L'Express

Montréal’s definitive classic bistro destination remains the gold standard for authentic French culinary tradition.

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
4.6$$$
OPEN11:30 am - 1 am
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Photo of L'Express, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal - Montreal
BistroFrenchTartareGreat selection of wines
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About

L'Express functions as a definitive pillar of classic bistro culture, showcasing a commitment to traditional French techniques through a focused and meticulously prepared menu. The kitchen specializes in seasoned raw meat preparations, including signature tartare variations that serve as the hallmark of the culinary program. Guests encounter an atmosphere defined by iconic tiled floors, bentwood chairs, and a long zinc bar that anchors the bustling room. Staff execute table service with precision and efficiency, maintaining a steady tempo throughout the facility. The menu prioritizes authentic preparations such as bone marrow, confit de canard, and artisanal cheeses, highlighting a devotion to timeless culinary standards. This establishment operates with a singular focus on consistent quality, ensuring that every dish reflects the core identity of the bistro format through technical rigor and dependable execution.
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5★
77%
4★
13%
3★
4%
2★
5%
1★
1%

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Reviews for L'Express

Food
Service
on Google4.6 (4000+)
*as of 2026-08-01
5★
77%
4★
13%
3★
4%
2★
5%
1★
1%

Review Summary

L'Express is widely celebrated as an iconic Montreal institution that offers an authentic Parisian bistro experience, characterized by its classic decor, lively atmosphere, and long-standing menu favorites such as duck confit, steak frites, and bone marrow. Many patrons praise the efficient, professional service and the unique touch of complimentary house-made pickles and mustard served with fresh bread. While a significant number of visitors consider it a must-visit destination for its consistency and quality, some diners have noted inconsistencies, ranging from issues with food preparation and seasoning to concerns regarding noise levels and occasional lapses in service quality. Overall, it remains a beloved staple for both locals and tourists seeking a traditional French dining experience, though making a reservation is highly recommended to secure a spot in this popular and bustling eatery.
Page 1 of 65 - 642 Reviews

pretty good, a little simple for a michelin star though. Kinda expensive for what it was

Aug 1, 2026
on Google

L'Express est une véritable institution montréalaise, & on comprend immédiatement pourquoi. L'ambiance est à la fois élégante, vivante & chaleureuse, avec ce charme de bistrot français intemporel qui donne envie de prolonger la soirée.
La cuisine est excellente, classique dans le meilleur sens du terme, avec des plats exécutés avec beaucoup de justesse & de constance. Mais ce qui rend vraiment l'expérience spéciale, c'est aussi l'accueil. Grégoire, le maître d'hôtel, crée une atmosphère particulièrement agréable dès qu'on franchit la porte. Il a cette rare capacité à être à la fois professionnel, attentionné & naturellement chaleureux, tout en faisant en sorte que chaque client se sente véritablement bienvenu.
C'est ce mélange de très bonne cuisine, de service impeccable & d'ambiance humaine qui fait de L'Express un endroit où l'on a toujours envie de revenir. Une adresse incontournable à Montréal.

Jul 29, 2026
on Google

This was our favourite meal of our trip to Montreal. Great value for quality here. We arrived at 10pm on a Sunday, it was PACKED. Waited about 10 mins for a table but heard others outside saying the wait was 1.5 hours for a table of 5. Reservations for big groups highly recommended! We had the bone marrow (yum!), hanger steak, & the green soup (sorrel?). Loved every dish. The only downside we have is we were sat at the table closest to the washroom & there was a lot of traffic moving that night. Sometimes a line up beside us while eating. & Including people who came out with wet hands flinging it with our table & food adjacent. Other than that we would return again!

Jul 29, 2026
on Google

Timeless. Food is extremely consistent & always delicious. Service operates with precision. Atmosphere is vibrant & loud. Glorious.

Jul 25, 2026
on Google

If I could rate one dish, I would say that the gazpacho was a 5/5! Fantastic!

But it went downhill from there. The octopus was good, & our salmon was adequate.

The real issue was the arrogant & bitter bartender/server (who was quite past it) who seemed to have a problem with us (for no good reason).

It's ordinary food with extraordinary attitude.

Juice is not worth the squeeze.

The food is better at Bouillon Albert right down the street.

Jul 24, 2026
on Google

Food was ok, good service, very packed, should reserve a table.

Jul 24, 2026
on Google

Une institution! Superbes frittes & croque monsieur !
J'adore

Jul 23, 2026
on Google

Class in every way. The best.

Jul 23, 2026
on Google

Une vraie brasserie parisienne à Montréal. Important de demander le bocal de cornichon avec la moutarde de Dijon... J'adore les plats traditionnels français qu'ils servent. Le service est d'un bon niveau. Je recommande à 100%

Jul 22, 2026
on Google

A classic for a reason. Attentive service, retro vibes, & classic food served to perfection. Can't ask for much more. The carpaccio, poulet roti, cerely remoulade were all excellent, & love the jar of cornichon & mustard on the side was a fun & delicious accompaniment. Came back a second time for a late night snack too.

Jul 22, 2026
on Google