Le Violon

The 38 Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada | Eater

"Le Violon sits on a quiet Plateau corner, but buzz about the restaurant is getting louder and louder. The project from chef Danny Smiles (who gained recognition on Top Chef Canada and later at Chuck Hughes’ seafood-centric Le Bremner) feels measured and mature, but not at all stiff or showy. The menu is a steady evolution, so I was pleased to find two favorite dishes on rotation during my recent visit: beef tartare swirled with tahini, and ricotta gnocchi in a rich, earthy cavolo nero pesto. Both were standouts, as was a dish of sea bream served with the season’s first peas in a super velvety beurre blanc. The room itself is a stunner: lots of wood, powder-blue walls, and crisp white linens under the watchful gaze of a colossal Dalmatian, painted by artist and Le Violon co-owner Dan Climan. Best for: Just as great for a date night or birthday dinner, as it is for a just-because evening out." - Valerie Silva