Juliette et Chocolat: Brunch Edition

Juliette's Brunch

377 Laurier Ouest, Montréal

I have great news for all CHOCOLATE and BRUNCH lovers. Juliette et Chocolat has finally emerged on the Montreal brunch scene. Already well-known for its desserts and chocolate delights, Juliette has decided it is time to tackle brunch. We were recently invited for brunch at the Laurier location (one of two locations that will offer brunch for now- the other being Laval). Brunch will eventually be rolled-out to other locations as well, so I will try to keep you posted.

On the brunch menu you will find some of Juliette's standard items: crepes (both sweet and savoury) and waffles. In addition to her classics, there are eggs, and french toast, all with a unique twist! Nutella-fans will flip for Juliette's French Toast stuffed with marshmallow and nutella, and finished off with some whipped cream.

We decided to order the French Toast with Caramelized Nuts (for a slightly less sweet alternative) and Juliette's Benedictine Waffle. The french toast was fluffy, topped with crunchy nuts and blueberries, and served with a side of English cream, syrup, and fruit. The other choice was savoury-  a buckwheat waffle with ham and cheese, topped with a sunny-side up egg, a side of hollandaise, a salad, and fruit. Definitely a wholesome breakfast. Of course we also got some mimosas, because it isn't really brunch without them.

French Toast with Caramelized Nuts

Buckwheat Waffle, Ham, Cheese, and a Sunny-Side Up Egg

We were lucky enough to sit down with Juliette herself. You could instantly sense her passion for what she does. She spoke to us about her restaurants, her family, and a bit about the creative process that went into designing the brunch menu. Her kindness and enthusiasm were so lovely and refreshing.

Stay tuned for other exciting news coming from Juliette et Chocolat just in time for summer-  we were told that there is a surprise in store, but that was all we could know for now!

We left full and with a lovely selection of chocolates to-go (speculoos, coconut, mojito, and passion fruit)- YUM. All in all, a solid brunch experience, especially for those of you with a sweet tooth.

Assorted Chocolates

Mind, Taste, Love.

Nightlife: Lorbeer

Lorbeer

Rustic Refinement.

381 Avenue Laurier Ouest, Montréal, QC H2V 2K3

More than just your typical neighbourhood bar, Lorbeer is the quintessential spot to grab a drink with friends on charming Laurier street. You may not know that Lorbeer is also the other half of Laurea (the revamped Laurier BBQ). Owned by Jeff Stinco (Simple Plan member and Montreal restauranteur) and partner Eric LeFrancois, this bar definitely reflects their passion for beer and food. The beer on tap is even from their very own Quebec-based brewery- The West Shefford Brewing Company.

The bar serves upscale bar food- not your traditional burgers and wings. Some options include curry braised lamb and chickpea tacos and Porc belly lettuce wraps. The menu is sophisticated and original, just like the décor and vibe. Unfortunately I only stopped by post-din and was way too full to order food (aside from fries...never too full for fries), but I will definitely be back to sample some of their food creations!

Fries & Mayo

As for the interior: warm and rustic with an antique feel. Industrial brass pipes run along the wall, and lit-candles provide additional coziness. For a place with such a refined menu and décor, it miraculously manages to keep a "friendly", unpretentious ambience.

Interior

My absolute favourite aspect of Lorbeer (being a girly-girl) are their Beertails- cocktails that incorporate beer. Choose from one of their whimsical creations including (my choice) the Monaco- 20 oz pint, grenadine syrup, 7up, and pale ale (LOVE). Plus, if you can't choose just one of their brews, sample 3 with their tester-sized beers. And finally, if you don't feel like calling over the waiter each time you want a re-fill, grab a seat at the back of the bar for a self-service/private tap experience!

Beertail Menu

Monaco & Alchimiste Beer

Yup! Beertails, fancy bar food, self-service taps, and ambience- I think I found your new favourite bar!

Reservations: Just walked in on a Sunday night- not sure about Thursday, Friday, Saturday.
Date night: 10/10.
Attire: Plaid shirt, jeans, & ankle booties.

The damage: $$$

Stay in the know: DJ on Thursday nights.

Bonus: Terrace

Mind, Taste, Love.