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Restaurant Top Pick

L'Express

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
4.6$$$
CLOSEDOpens Today at 11:30 am
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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★
5%
2★
5%
1★
1%

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Reviews for L'Express

Food
Service
on Google4.6 (4000+)
*as of 2026-07-15
5★
77%
4★
13%
3★
5%
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 8 - 76 Reviews

One of the best value French bistros in Montreal. Everything was well executed, & the complimentary pickles were surprisingly the highlight-super crisp, refreshing, & addictive. The quail was tender with a delicious sauce & is definitely worth ordering. I'd skip the foie gras mousse unless you're sharing, as it's very rich, & the mafaldine pesto pasta was far too oily for my taste. Free bread refills were a nice bonus. Great meal overall, especially for the price.

Jul 18, 2026
on Google

Classique bistrot français, bonne cuisine & bonne portions.

Jul 17, 2026
on Google

Terrible. This place confuses the word'bistro' with a'sloppy dinner.'

There are a million lovely restaurants down the street with the same price point so spare yourself & have an enjoyable evening avoiding this place.

Crammed tables, super loud & not with ambience but dishes & cutlery clattering.
Very bright lights during late evening dinner service, no music (at least couldn't hear it). We noticed the bad ambience immediately but thought all the good reviews must mean excellent food. We ordered the beef carpaccio to start duck & steak frites for mains. Shortly after the server delivered a gross jar of communal pickles & a mustard crusted over from sitting out too long. Cold piece of dry baguette to'enjoy.' Beef carpaccio was ok.
The steak was short of ok & the fries were soggy & warm & I could taste old oil. No other sides just a sloppy steak & gross fries. Presentation was terrible. No quality check. Duck was good but at nearly $40 a meal thank the lord something was decent.
I don't know who is writing all the excellent ratings, questionable.

Jul 13, 2026
on Google

We really enjoyed this restaurant. The atmosphere is a classic French bistro . All of our food was very flavorful & delicious. Our server, Rachel, was amazing! The only complaint is the noise level is high but it adds to the ambiance here. Highly recommend!

Jul 12, 2026
on Google

Brought my golden retriever along last Saturday afternoon & was so relieved to find they had a shaded terrace where she could settle right beside our table. The staff were genuinely warm about having her there, even bringing out a little bowl of water without being asked. I had the croque monsieur & it was exactly the kind of classic, no-fuss bistro food that just hits right on a lazy afternoon. L'Express is now firmly on my regular rotation for weekend lunches with my pup.

Jul 6, 2026
on Google

This place is a amazing & such a classic French bistro. Love to see this level of hospitality that still exists! The cornichon jar was the best touch!

Jul 1, 2026
on Google
5.0

Classic bistro look & feel. Wonderful waiter. Just a great experience

Jul 1, 2026
on Google

My absolute favorite French bistro in all of Montreal, & Canada! Cozy elegant Parisian interior, classic black & white tiled floor, dark wood, golden ceiling. Long bar. Divine food. Classic long standing menu favorites! Friendly, efficient staff. On my first visit I asked our well worn waitress what their best dishes were, she smiled & said,'Monsieur, all of these dishes have been served for over 40 years - they are all the best!' & she was right. Make reservations. A very noisy buzzing room. I was saddened when they closed for months of renovation last year .. relieved to see their lovely interior decor intact, unchanged, already perfect & classic exactly as it is! A Sunday New York Times ran a full page testimonial to L'Express, revealing that it was an ultimate chef's favorite destination from all over the continent.
I book my Montreal visit to best friend around this restaurant's availability!
Highest recommendation! A must try destination for all serious food lovers! 🌞👑🐒⚜? d

Jun 27, 2026
on Google

Been to this place a few times & always liked how much it feels like a true French bistro. Food & desserts are great & the service is top notch.

Jun 26, 2026
on Google

Love the late nite vibe & bistro food! Definitely check out if in the area.

Jun 22, 2026
on Google