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.
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.
Delicious food, reasonable prices & fun atmosphere. My steak tasted great & was cooked perfectly. The octopus was very tender & paired nicely with the red pepper sauce. Service was quick however sometimes too quick that it became less efficient: our appetizers arrived but we didn't have any plates or utensils then our dirty utensils were taken away but was not replaced for our mains. They were clearly understaffed & were running around all night. My partner & I enjoyed our night regardless & would still come back to try other dishes. Waiter also made an excellent wine recommendation that easily became one of my favourites!
Hidden gem! The ambiance was friendly, the service impeccable, & every dish a burst of authentic flavors. A culinary journey that left a lasting impression. Highly recommended!
This was the BEST duck confit I've ever had! It was so perfectly done. The place is quite packed & even when I made a reservation a few weeks before we could only get bar seating so make sure to book well in advance. If I'm in Montreal again I'm definitely going back. Pretty reasonable prices too!
Dec 19, 2023
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My husband & I visited Montreal for the first time & we were impressed with the fabulous restaurant scene here. We didn't get to go to a lot of restaurants here but L'Express quickly became one of our top choices-so much so that we visited twice in a row, both for dinner. First visit was for a late night meal right after our check-in. We had sorrel soup, duck confit & a lemon pie. We loved the soup & it was also our best duck confit. The mushrooms & potatoes had depths of flavors having been cooked in (what I assume to be) duck fat. For the second day, we shared french onion soup, hubby had salmon with lentils & spinach & I got quails with wild rice & we were both amazed once again. The French onion soup instantly warmed us up & the main dishes were very well balanced in terms of seasoning & also cooked to perfection. We also enjoyed quick service & friendly & very professional staff.
People rightly love this place for the authentic & relaxed French bistro atmosphere & energy. The food is ok, wait staff excellent, & very good value for money. Highly recommend.
The duck is really good especially with the sweet potato & sauce underneath the duck. Surprising combination. The dessert is the must try!!! If you are a sweet tooth you should order this dessert
Great fun night out with friends. If you're looking for no frills, decent wine, decent food, decent price, & relaxing night out - this is it. The vibe is fresh & lively. If you can manage your way to dessert, the lime sorbet is recommended.
Je me rappelais vaguement de cette place « iconique » des années 80. 1er décembre réservation à 22 h. Coût 225 $/2 3 services + un verre de vin blanc [imbuvable selon moi (Chablis 2020)] + 2 bouteilles d'eau de type « gastronomique » Cryo [eau filtrée faite pour les restos]. On demande pétillante; elle était « flat » (!). Le cocktail sans alcool « Virgin Andrew » était excellent. La place est littéralement bondée! C'est bruyant & assourdissant pas possible! Genre si vous aimez être collé su' l'monde, bin c'est la place! Genre tu tournes la tête & tu peux parler à ton/ta voisin/voisine (!). Le serveur vient prendre la commande d'à-côté & t'as ses fesses pratiquement dans la face lol! Des mini-tables pour deux où on a l'audace d'installer une 3e chaise! J'avais jamais encore vu ça lol! Bref, oubliez l'intimité, bonjour la promiscuité! Haha! & les chaises, ouf! Inexcusable. Une torture après 30 min. Disons simplement que c'est une place qui a besoin d'une forme de rénovation totale, mais à ce moment le charme de l'endroit sera peut-être perdu... Disons simplement que la place est beaucoup, beaucoup trop « maximisée ». La bouffe? Le poulet paillard : très bon! Sauce impeccable! Salade de betteraves bonne, mais hors de prix pour un mesclun avec champignons sautés, betteraves & walnuts. Enterrée de fromage commun sur le dessus. Pourquoi ne pas mettre quelques tranches minces de cheddar vieilli, un gouda comme un hollandais Beemster ou encore d'éclats de parmigiano reggiano? Les desserts maison? Mon ami a dit que son Baba au rhum était le meilleur qu'il ait jamais mangé! Je l'ai goûté : excellent effectivement! Ma tartelette au citron était un peu décevante pour 14 $ : la croûte était pratiquement immangeable, dure & réfrigérée. J'ai laissé le 3/4 de la croûte dans l'assiette. La garniture au citron était excellente & la ganache au chocolat blanc sans reproche. Informé un des serveurs qui a simplement dit qu'« [il allait] aviser (...) ] (!). Ça vaut ce que ça vaut. J'aurais préféré une réduction du prix de la tarte ou son retrait de l'addition tout simplement. Manque un peu de sens du service à la clientèle là... Message au pâtissier : va voir du côté d'Angelo Musa pour savoir c'est quoi la tartelette au citron ultime... Service : empressé, sans être nullement exceptionnel. Serveurs bien mis & habillés professionnellement. Certains validaient une 2e fois la commande avec les clients, afin d'éviter les erreurs, ce que le nôtre n'a pas fait & mon ami a obtenu une soupe paysanne plutôt que la soupe aux poissons commandée... All & all : je n'y retournerai probablement pas, mais je sais que la place a clairement ses afficionados & sa réputation. Mais 225 $ pour cette « expérience », je dirais que c'est très cher payé.
Best meal I've had...hands down. Was blown away. Duck confit was by far the best meal but nearly everything on the menu looked amazing. Texture of the duck's delicate skin with the tender meat inside made me want to savor every bite. Surrounded by crisp brussel sprouts & mushrooms only added even more greatness to an already perfect meal. Filling & affordable. Was able to make a reservation that same day an hour beforehand & even walked in early & was seated for a large party of 8. Maple Porfitoroules & creme brûlée also highly recommended. Meal came with tons of complimentary pickles, spicy mustard, & bread. Perfection. Wouldn't have had it differently any way
