Restaurant L'Express, located in Le Plateau Mont-Royal, Montreal is one of Montreal's best-known French bistros. The menu rotates somewhat, and there are always daily specials, but l'Express specializes in: pâté, foie gras and bouillabaisse appetizers; steak tartare, steak-frites and veal kidney main courses; and cheeses, crème caramel or chocolate mousse desserts.
L'Express comes across in reviews as a beloved Montreal staple that evokes a Parisian bistro vibe with a lively yet cozy dining room, a long bar, and mirrors that create a bustling, intimate atmosphere. The menu features generous portions of classic dishes like bone marrow, confit duck, steak frites, and beef tartare, complemented by crowd-pleasing desserts such as maple profiteroles and crème brûlée, and sharing-friendly touches like a large jar of house pickles, cornichons, bread, and Dijon mustard. Service is repeatedly praised for being warm, professional, and attentive, though a few visits note occasional delays or missteps and some dishes feeling a bit salty or pricey; reservations are advised and the overall experience is described as authentic, comforting, and quintessentially French, making L'Express a top choice for both locals and visitors.
I had a late dinner at L'Express, the well-known French bistro, & it was a great experience overall. The Hanger steak, cooked medium rare, was really good, & the shallot butter & fries made a great combo. The real highlight for me was the maple profiteroles-absolutely delicious. My partner had the duck confit & said it was the best ever. The cozy vibe was nice, but the service was mixed. Our main server was friendly & attentive, but another staff member was a bit pushy. Still, everything was quick & efficient, making it a solid spot for a casual French meal.
We had a lovely dinner at L'Express. The atmosphere is lively, busy & energetic. The food is straight forward, quality French eats - a true French bistro vibe. The salmon tartare & steak with roasted veggies hit the spot & the homemade pickles were a nice touch.
We came here for brunch. It really has a classic Parisian bistro vibe. Service was excellent even though the restaurant was very busy. We ordered foie gras & risotto. Both tasted amazing. This is definitely one of the best restaurants in Montreal. Hope to visit here again soon.
Still one of the top bistros in Montreal. Seasonal specials are always worth considering - but there are some classics on the menu. Love the cornichons - I bought a big jar to take home with me.
L'Express is one of the best in Montreal - a classic French restaurant with a Parisian bistro style room, excellent food, & incredible service. Everything was done very well.
Sep 4, 2024
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Pur moment ! On a passé un vrai bon moment dans ce décor de bistrot chic & décontracté. La cuisine est raffinée, un super accueil & service, comme je le disais un pur moment entre amis. À découvrir ou redécouvri
I'm not sure this place needs another positive review-nevertheless, a stand-out restaurant in a city full of wonderful food. Classic French bistro atmosphere, perfect service, & cornichons & mustard are provided gratis. Duck confit & celery remoulade were perfection. The waitress suggested a wonderful cab to go with them. My wife very much enjoyed her risotto. Would very much like to sit at the bar next time. All in all, a worthy 20th anniversary dinner.
Great French bistro in a trendy area of Montreal. Cooking was exquisite! Service was friendly & helpful. Price is fair for the quality & portion size. The gazpacho my cousin & I had was perhaps the best I've ever had. The mushrom ravioli was delicate & extremely flavorful. & the creme brulee was also excellent. Definitely returning next time I am in the city.
Classic French Bistro that covers all the bases. Make sure to get something off the specials menu & enjoy the ambiance. Been with kids & on date night, service is impeccable.
10/10. where do i even start?! book in advance! Must have french bistro cuisine experience when you are in town. wine selection is exceptional. just wow. service is perfect, they were awfully nice & helpful, super attentive. bone marrow was out of this world. duck confit was one of the best & well made meat ive had. cooked & seasoned to perfection ile flottante au caramel is what you need to order for share.
Jul 23, 2024
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L'Express est une excellente adresse pour savourer la cuisine française à Montréal. La nourriture est exceptionnelle, avec des plats préparés à la perfection & une présentation soignée. Le service est impeccable, professionnel & attentionné. De plus, l'ambiance est chaleureuse & authentique, rappelant les bistros parisiens. Le rapport qualité-prix est justifié par l'expérience culinaire de haut niveau. Une visite incontournable pour les amateurs de cuisine française.
Consistently serving well prepared French Bistro classics. The only place you can get a truly reliable steak tartare in Montreal, served with perfect crisp fries. 7-24 update... The same charming & efficient service. The food is on par. Thank god for consistency.
A step back in time to a genuine French Bistro in Montreal. Having just been in Paris 6 month's ago. L'Express felt more authentic! Crowded, lively, & full of energy. Busy local place, great bistro food, with daily specials. Dining late? No problem. L'Express is open for late dinners, or dessert seekers! Friendly & knowledgeable wait staff. Only downside, a little loud when packed with diners, & & space is tight. But if you enjoy a good local exciting vibe, L'Express is for you!
If you miss Paris, come here. Friendly staff, great food, classic bistro ambiance, extensive wine list. Packed with locals & tourists. Highly recommended.
