FR
Montreal Restaurants: RestoMontreal.caMontreal Restaurants: RestoMontreal.ca

Logo RestoMontreal.ca

0
×
Loading filters...
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$$$
CLOSEDOpens Today at 11:30 am
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Photo of L'Express, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal - Montreal
BistroFrenchTartareGreat selection of wines
Loading suggestions...

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.
Loading restaurants nearby...
Loading...
5★
77%
4★
13%
3★
4%
2★
5%
1★
1%

Restaurants in Le Plateau-Mont-RoyalView More

India Rosa Plateau Restaurant
Barranco MTL Restaurant
Le Nil Bleu Restaurant
Au Pied de Cochon Restaurant
Café Cherrier Restaurant
Loading nearby events...
Loading related links...

Reviews for L'Express

Food
Service
on Google4.6 (4000+)
*as of 2026-08-15
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 and timeless Parisian bistro experience. Guests frequently praise the consistently delicious classic French cuisine, highlighting standout dishes such as the duck confit, steak frites, bone marrow, and the signature Ile Flottante dessert. The welcoming atmosphere is often described as vibrant, cozy, and elegant, perfectly complemented by a professional and attentive service team. Many diners appreciate the unique touches, such as the complimentary jar of gherkins and mustard served at every table, as well as the extensive and well curated wine list. While the popular, bustling dining room can become quite loud and tables are closely spaced, most visitors find that the high quality of the food and the charming, energetic vibe make it a must visit destination that provides excellent value for a memorable dining experience.
Page 1 of 7 - 67 Reviews
4.0

Just an excellent place to enjoy a delicious meal in a fine, yet unpretentious bistro. This dining room is in the charming Plateau neighbourhood. While you're going to see a lot of tourists there, it's also popular with locals. The wine list is incredible & service in English is cheerfully offered if necessary. Great for lunch if you want to come check things out. A great addition to your Montreal experience.

Aug 18, 2026
on Google

One of the best dining experiences in Montreal. Food was 13/10 & the wine list is second to none.

Aug 15, 2026
on Google

We had reserved for a party of 3 to celebrate a bday
we were told by a very rude hostess that our table would be a table for 2 with an added third chair facing the wall .. we tried to have a better table but once again the rude hostess told us that it had been mentionned when reservation was made .. totally false

Service was less than acceptable for a restaurant that has Michelin mention by the entrance door .. what a shame
We had ordered 2 bavettes one had to be well cook
but we had to return it to the kitchen because it was blue!!!
By recommandation from our waiter 1 person ordered the ravioli he made sound very nice but... the 5 raviolis were drowning in a brown sauce & was barely eatable tasted awdull did not eat...

We by accident knocked the sparkling water on the table , waiter was quick to change the paper tablecoth
but .. never replaced the water bottle nor the glass..

Salad tasteless barely dressed with vinaigrette ..
Had to waited at least 25 min with dirty plates
never were asked for another glass of wine or water

Dessert worst Creme brulee ever

Horrible service from start to end , loud phone ringing constantly
will never recommend this restaurant that used to be part of Montreal establisment for more than 40 yrs

Working as a public relation person for an international
cie this experience was simply not acceptable

Aug 12, 2026
on Google

First, we called for a table in the morning & they said although they were booked they'd make room :). That's nice!
Room has a lovely ambience, casual but elegant. Wine choice was lovely, assisted by friendly server. The celeriac was nice, vinegary & crunchy but needed another fatty dish to offset. Confit duck was basically perfect. Yum. Daughter's steak was good, quite rare but tender, but the frites fell short. They were missing crisp & seemed like they'd been sitting. Poached salmon with chervil mash was outstanding. Overall a really good meal, with great service.

Aug 4, 2026
on Google

It was my first time there. The service was super friendly, very attentioned too. They timed the drinks, the appetizers, & the main dish perfectly. They had great wine suggestions to match the food.
The place is very lovely & cozy. It could get a bit loud specially cause it's always full, but the service, the food, & the experience are totally worth it.
Definitely a gem I'd recommend.

Jul 13, 2026
on Google

Genuine French cooking in Montreal! I had the veal kidney which is basically unavailable in the US. The wine list is also worth noting. Highly educated choices at pretty reasonable prices.

Jun 25, 2026
on Google

Quintessential french bistro. The steak frites were great. Great wine selection & awesome service

Jun 18, 2026
on Google

An amazing experience with efficient & seamless service, including the wine recommendations & pace of the courses. Classic but unstuffy dishes of the highest quality. No dehydrated gastronomy here, just a restaurant full of people enjoying life.

Jun 16, 2026
on Google

A quaint pub type pizzeria. Lovely owners & food. Had the house wine a salad & a pizza. Delicious. JJ & Helene were simply amazing.

May 20, 2026
on Google

Stylish place with a good food but very loud in a busy evening. Very big choice of wines

May 15, 2026
on Google