L'Express s'impose comme une référence incontournable de la culture bistro, illustrant un engagement profond envers les techniques culinaires françaises traditionnelles grâce à une carte rigoureuse et précise. La cuisine se spécialise dans les préparations de viandes crues, notamment les tartares signatures qui constituent l'emblème indissociable de l'identité gastronomique du lieu. L'établissement présente un décor caractéristique composé de sols en damier, de chaises en bois courbé et d'un long comptoir en zinc structurant l'espace principal. Le personnel assure un service rapide et technique, maintenant une cadence constante au sein de la salle animée. Le menu privilégie les classiques tels que les os à moelle, le confit de canard et une sélection de fromages artisanaux, reflétant une loyauté absolue aux standards culinaires classiques. Chaque assiette témoigne d'une volonté d'excellence technique et d'une exécution constante parfaitement maîtrisée.
L'Express est largement reconnu comme une institution montréalaise emblématique offrant une expérience de bistro parisien authentique, marquée par son décor classique, son atmosphère animée et ses incontournables comme le confit de canard, le steak frites et l'os à moelle. De nombreux clients louent le service efficace et professionnel ainsi que la touche unique des cornichons maison et de la moutarde servis avec du pain frais. Bien qu'un grand nombre de visiteurs considèrent cet établissement comme une destination incontournable pour sa constance et sa qualité, certains convives ont noté des irrégularités, allant de problèmes de préparation et d'assaisonnement à des préoccupations concernant le niveau sonore et des oublis occasionnels dans le service. Dans l'ensemble, l'adresse demeure une référence appréciée des habitués et des touristes en quête d'une expérience culinaire française traditionnelle, bien qu'il soit fortement conseillé de réserver pour obtenir une place dans ce restaurant populaire et toujours très fréquenté.
L'Express is my favoruite resturant in the city. That's why it's super disappointing they hung up on me when I tried to snag a spot I could not find online by calling in. Most resturants hold tables from online for call ins. Can't beleive I was treated so rudely...
This iconic Montreal institution sets an impeccable table. The cuisine is outstanding, highlighted by a classic bone marrow & a legendary steak tartare, made even more authentic by the signature jars of cornichons & grainy mustard. Service is both crisp & convivial, ensuring the atmosphere remains refined yet approachable. To finish, an exquisite value-driven selection from the renowned cellar rounds out the evening perfectly.
L'Express is often heralded as one of the most iconic institutions Montreal has to offer, which played a major part in shaping the city's iconic food landscape. As such, I chose to dine in this restaurant with my partner for her birthday, expecting to be completely blown away by its food & wanted to confirm if their food matches their hype.
It does not at all. The food is absolutely average. Starting with their in-house bread, which was extremely chewy & tough, like horribly tough… on the other hand, the mustard & pickles were very nice (probably the nicest thing we had).
We chose bone marrow, having had bone marrow at other institutions in the city, we were expecting something similar. But no, it was not; it was unpleasant, very unpleasant, & painful to eat. The bone marrow was not seasoned in any way.
Next, ravioli. This was quite good, I'll give this to them. The filling was rich, the gravy it came in was quite thick & wonderful. One thing I will unfortunately point out: have the ravioli quickly because the gravy will get congealed quickly.
Lastly, one of the dishes that you will frequently see people talk about the most is the Hanger Steak. I tried it, & honestly, just skip this dish altogether. The fries were regular fries (almost the exact same fries you get at Orange Julep), & the cut of steak is just sad with how much you are paying for it. The meat is not seasoned, extremely tough, & also, I do not think they baste their steak post-cooking either. Personally, I did not enjoy having a cold slab of butter on top. For a main highlight meat dish I didn't like that I had two contrasting competing temperatures in my mouth. I'd appreciate it in an entree but maybe not in a main dish.
Service is average, nothing fancy; you walk in, eat, walk out, no questions asked.
Personally, L'Express did not match its hype. I don't think I'll be coming back here again.
Ambiance was very nice, reminded me of Parisian restaurants.
Rude service staff, specifically the host who takes reservations. If you are anglophone, don't waste your money here - they will treat you differently & disrespect you.
Never heard of, but was suggested.
Small place serving big portions of delicious food. Had the bone marrow & the duck. They didn't miss with those dishes.
