loccola
Google
I recently visited Les Enfants Terribles in Outremont for a casual gathering with some coworkers. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a laid-back happy hour or a casual dinner. The vibe was relaxed, and it was clear the place was geared toward creating a comfortable setting for groups—ideal for our party of 20.
Ambiance:
The vibe was exactly what we needed for a happy hour with coworkers: cozy, welcoming, and not too loud. The Maitre d' was a standout, very friendly and accommodating despite our large group. Unfortunately, the positive service experience didn’t extend to the waitstaff.
Service:
Our server seemed disengaged and a bit dismissive throughout the evening. It became a bit of a running joke at our table when we had to remind him about our drinks, and to make matters worse, the glass of Cava I received was warm—something I’ve never encountered at a restaurant that prides itself on its offerings. When I pointed this out, the staff seemed unfazed and unapologetic, which honestly was a bit frustrating.
On top of that, we were definitely made to feel like second-class citizens for ordering from the happy hour menu. The drinks were only $7, which is an incredible deal, but it felt like we were snubbed by the staff for making such a choice. For a place that offers such a good deal, it seemed a bit off that they would treat happy hour guests any differently.
Food:
We started off with the $1 oysters. To be blunt, they were the smallest oysters I’ve ever had—like, practically bite-sized. It’s a great deal if you’re looking for volume, but don’t expect a stellar quality experience for that price.
For the main course, I ordered the steak frites, and it missed the mark. The fries came out cold and hard—definitely not the crispy, golden fries you’d hope for with such a dish. The flank steak, though tender, had clearly been overcooked, leaving it a little dry and lacking in flavor.
Price:
While the oysters were priced well at $1 each and the happy hour drinks were a steal at $7, the overall experience didn’t feel worth what we paid for the main courses. I would have expected a bit more attention to detail, especially considering the location and reputation of the place.
Overall Experience:
Despite the cozy atmosphere and the friendly greeting from the Maitre d’, the rest of the experience left a lot to be desired. The lack of attention from the waitstaff and the subpar food (particularly the steak and fries) made it hard to fully enjoy the evening. While it’s a nice spot for happy hour or a casual hangout with coworkers, I wouldn't rush back for the food or service.
Would I return? Maybe for a drink or two during happy hour, but I’d think twice before sitting down for a full meal. It’s definitely a case of style over substance.