Article and Photos by: Madeleine Lahaie
Don’t be surprised if you feel the need to name drop after visiting the Plateau’s new restobar “Majestique” The urge to inform (a.k.a brag) to your friends is a valid reaction. Simply because this spot is the classic “plateau” experience . The brand new joint is located right on the Main at 4105 St.Laurent. The building used to house a hot dog factory called “Hot Dog Lesters.” Today the original “Delli-Cite” sign still hangs outside. Perhaps it’s a kitschy reminder of simple times; Montreal’s hot dog era.
Today the space has been taken over by a culinary dream team. Starting with Chef Charles Antoine Crete; who is best known for his work at Toqué! and Brasserie T! Charles is accompanied by seasoned industry professional; Richard Holder. Holder is the man behind Mile End darlings, Bar Waverly and Brasserie Bernard. We had high hopes for Majestique after hearing these two powerhouses were on board. Thankfully, Majestique did not disappoint! If anything the new restaurant surpassed our expectations.
Majestique seems to exist within an instagram filter. All of the tables bask in perfect sepia lighting and I’m left scratching my head… how are they doing that? The man to thank is graphic designer turned decorator, Thomas Csano. Csano designed the smoky interior with detail in mind. The walls are lined with various flea market knick knacks. You’ll find old beer bottles intermingled with ceramics straight from grandmas basement. All the items are arranged in a calculated posh format. Majestique is country comfort delivered in a city slicker format, and we dig it.
Chef Charles Antoine created Majestique’s new menu. He creates an interesting dynamic by mixing old school diner fare with new gourmet touches. We started with an appetizer: Cream of Smoked Mackerel. The dish resembled a high class tuna salad and was served in an adorable dixie cup. The portion was quite generous for an appetizer and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Next, we did the unthinkable and broke our oyster virginity. The manager David Page insisted we try them as they are a cornerstone of the menu. Majestique receives fresh oysters every day and even has an oyster guy named Max — apparently he’s a big deal in the oyster world. (Side Note: After some light research on “Max the oyster guy” I’d like to know if he’s single.) The tasting was painless and surprisingly delicious. These oysters are going to become a staple in our foodie diet!
Majestique’s manager David Page says “We don’t buy ladies shots we buy them oysters.”
For the main course I tried “Bourgot Beurre d’Algues et Pain Frit.” Which roughly translates to Bourgot in Seaweed butter with fried bread. Just cause we’re all wondering “Bourgot” is the gaspesian’s equivalent to snails. These pseudo snails were swimming in a unique garlic/seaweed butter. Although the dish was quite rich the portion sizes were complimentary. My partner had the Tostada with sushi rice, tomato and seaweed. This creative take on sushi was a real show stopper. The dish was gluten free, vegan and delicious; so it hit all the bases. The sushi rice was formed into a cracker base and topped with a fresh “sushi salsa.” Finding a vegan dish that stands on it’s own can be difficult. Majestique did an amazing job of appeasing the vegan crowd whilst staying gourmet.
Whether it’s for a couple of drinks or a meal with friends this restobar is worth a visit! The Majestique kitchen is open until 2:00 am every night (except sundays), so feel free to stop in late night while perusing the Main. Relax, enjoy some grub and soak in the spectacular ambience. Simply because Majestique lives up to it’s name sake.
4105 Blvd St.Laurent
514-439-1850
http://www.restobarmajestique.com/
Check out more from Madeleine Lahaie @ www.MadeleineLahaie.com
