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Nestled in the vibrant Le Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, L'Express is an icon in Montreal, celebrated for its authentic French cuisine and lively, Parisian-inspired ambiance. This classic bistro welcomes both locals and travelers seeking a refined yet cozy dining experience that captures the essence of a traditional French eatery.

Discover the Charm of L'Express in Montreal

L'Express stands out as a Montreal culinary treasure, renowned for its exquisite French dishes like grilled quail, veal carpaccio, and house-made ravioli. The lively atmosphere, filled with locals even late into the night, makes it a perfect spot for an authentic Parisian dining experience in the heart of Montreal.

Explore reviews and community insights for L'Express

What are the operating hours of L'Express?

L'Express is open daily from morning until 3:00 a.m., serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night meals.

Does L'Express offer gluten-free options?

Yes, L'Express offers gluten-free options, including fries and steak. However, it's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions to ensure safety.

Parking availability is not specified. It's recommended to check with the restaurant directly or use public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions about L'Express

Patrons frequently praise L'Express for its consistent excellence, friendly service, and vibrant atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared dishes like the grilled octopus, steak frites, and classic desserts such as Profiteroles and lemon sorbet. The lively yet relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and group celebrations. Most community feedback underscores the restaurant's authenticity and value for money, making it a favorite in Montreal’s culinary scene.

Established in December 1980, L'Express is a Parisian-style French bistro located in Montreal's vibrant Le Plateau-Mont-Royal. Founded by Colette Brossoit and Pierre Villeneuve, this beloved institution has become synonymous with classic French cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity has made it a cherished destination for both locals and visitors alike.

L'Express captures the essence of French dining, offering a menu filled with refined dishes that reflect the culinary traditions of France. The restaurant's chic decor, featuring checkered floors and a classic bar, enhances the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for any occasion.

L'Express has seen significant milestones since its inception, marking its growth and evolution in the culinary landscape of Montreal.

• 1980: L'Express opened its doors on December 19, 1980.
• 1982: Joël Chapoulie became head chef, elevating the restaurant's cuisine.
• 2012: Chef Chapoulie retired after over 30 years at L'Express.
• 2016: Chef Jean-François Vachon took over the kitchen.
• 2025: Chef Marc-Antoine Lacasse became the head chef, succeeding Vachon.

L'Express has been shaped by the vibrant community of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, a neighborhood known for its artistic flair and diverse culture. The restaurant has become a gathering place for locals, reflecting the area's dynamic spirit. Its menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, emphasizing a connection to the community and the region's culinary heritage.

The legacy of L'Express is deeply rooted in the vision of its founders, Colette Brossoit and Pierre Villeneuve. Their dedication to providing an authentic French dining experience laid the groundwork for the restaurant's success. Over the years, chefs like Joël Chapoulie and Jean-François Vachon have contributed their culinary expertise, further enhancing the restaurant's reputation for excellence.

L'Express has successfully adapted to the changing culinary landscape while maintaining its core values. The introduction of new dishes and seasonal menus reflects the restaurant's commitment to innovation. Despite these changes, the essence of L'Express remains rooted in its French heritage, ensuring that guests continue to enjoy a timeless dining experience.

As L'Express continues to thrive, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of French cuisine in Montreal. The restaurant's commitment to quality, community, and tradition ensures that it will remain a cherished destination for years to come. Whether you're a local or a visitor, L'Express invites you to savor the flavors of France in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Located at 3927 R. Saint-Denis in Montréal, L'Express is an iconic Parisian-style bistro known for its refined French cuisine and chic ambiance. This establishment has been delighting diners since its inception, making it a staple in the vibrant Le Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood. With checkered floors and a welcoming bar, it offers a unique dining experience that combines tradition with modern flair.

Shared kitchen may pose cross-contamination risk for those with severe allergies

L'Express is perfect for romantic dinners, special celebrations, or simply enjoying a late-night meal with friends. Its inviting atmosphere and exceptional service make it a top choice for both locals and visitors alike.

Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends. Be prepared for limited parking options nearby, and consider arriving early to secure a spot. The restaurant is not suitable for children, so plan accordingly.

L'Express stands out as a quintessential French bistro in Montréal, offering a delightful blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence. With a menu that highlights fresh ingredients and classic French dishes, it remains a beloved destination for anyone seeking an authentic dining experience.

Discover L'Express, a true Montreal favorite located in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal at 3927 Rue Saint-Denis. This iconic Parisian-style bistro offers an authentic French dining experience with its refined standards and chic ambiance, complete with checkered floors and a stylish bar.

Experience the best of French cuisine in Montreal

L'Express in Montreal is a culinary journey into the heart of France, known for its refined standards and lively ambiance. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, this bistro boasts an extensive wine cellar with over 11,000 bottles, offering a wide selection at affordable prices. Whether you're craving classic French dishes or seeking a cozy spot to indulge in a glass of wine, L'Express has you covered.

Enjoy a diverse menu from breakfast to late-night dining

L'Express is a Montreal hotspot known for its lively atmosphere and exceptional French cuisine. Open daily until 3:00 a.m., it serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night meals. The restaurant's warm ambiance makes it perfect for groups and casual dining alike. Savor their acclaimed steak frites, traditional quiche, and a selection of fine wines and cocktails from a curated menu. With fantastic reviews highlighting the friendly service and quality dishes, L'Express offers an authentic French bistro experience right in the heart of Montreal.

Montréal

L'Express is a beloved Montreal institution known for its exceptional French cuisine and lively atmosphere. Reviewers praise the motivated staff, quick service, and delicious food offerings like roasted quail, veal carpaccio, house-made ravioli, duck confit, and more. The restaurant's ambiance is described as stunning with a fine dining feel but not stuffy. While some mention minor seasoning issues in certain dishes, highlights include the grilled octopus and various dessert options like Profiterole and lemon sorbet. Overall, L'Express offers an authentic French dining experience that leaves patrons satisfied and eager to return.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the heart of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, L'Express is a quintessential Parisian-style bistro that exudes charm and sophistication. With its checkered floors and chic decor, this iconic establishment has been a beloved dining destination in Montréal since its opening. The atmosphere is vibrant yet relaxed, making it the perfect spot for both locals and visitors to indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates French cuisine.

L'Express is renowned for its exquisite menu that showcases classic French dishes prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. One standout dish is the Steak Frites, featuring perfectly cooked steak paired with crispy, golden fries and a side of rich, flavorful mayonnaise. Another must-try is the Quiche with Leek, a delightful blend of creamy filling and flaky pastry that captures the essence of French comfort food. To top off your meal, indulge in their famous Floating Island dessert, a light and airy treat drizzled with caramel that leaves a lasting impression.

What sets L'Express apart is not just its delectable food, but also its commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience. The attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and valued, creating a warm atmosphere that invites you to linger over your meal. A fun fact about L'Express is that it has been a favorite among locals for decades, often bustling with patrons even late into the night. This bistro truly embodies the spirit of French dining, where every meal is a celebration.

Conveniently located at 3927 R. Saint-Denis, L'Express is surrounded by the vibrant culture of Montréal. After enjoying a delightful meal, take a stroll through the charming streets of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, where you can explore local boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. Don't miss the chance to visit nearby attractions such as the stunning Parc La Fontaine or the lively Saint Denis Street, known for its eclectic shops and lively atmosphere.

L'Express is celebrated for its authentic French cuisine, particularly its Steak Frites and Floating Island dessert.

With its inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, L'Express offers a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of French culture.

L'Express is close to Parc La Fontaine and Saint Denis Street, perfect for a post-meal stroll.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by L'Express for an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly blends tradition and modernity. Savor the flavors of France in a setting that feels like a home away from home.

Iconic Parisian-style bistro serving refined standards in a chic room with checkered floors & a bar.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfNFpDN3pRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ87Zc7csbyUwRvWT5sQpzrbo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfNFpDN3pRRRAB

Absolutely delicious!! Even the hose made pickle is a blast.
Great atmosphere, filled with locals even after 10pm on a weekday. Great price point for such amazing food!
The grilled quill and profiteroles (with caramel ice cream) are must try.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeTZXNUhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ87Zc7csbyUwRvWT5sQpzrbo/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeTZXNUhREAE

L’Express is an exceptional restaurant and a true gem for dinner in Montreal. From start to finish, the experience was outstanding. The service was impeccable—friendly, attentive, and detail-oriented, making us feel well taken care of throughout the evening. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, creating the perfect vibe for a memorable night out.

The food was absolutely delicious, with every dish showcasing fresh, high-quality ingredients and expert preparation. The highlight of the meal was the dessert—the floating island with caramel (if I recall the name correctly)—an absolute must-try! It was the perfect sweet ending to an already amazing dining experience.

If you’re looking for a spot in Montreal that combines excellent food, top-notch service, and a wonderful ambiance, L’Express should be at the top of your list. Highly recommended!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmMloyRnF3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ87Zc7csbyUwRvWT5sQpzrbo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmMloyRnF3RRAB

Came here for my birthday dinner, booked last minute and honestly it was the best dinner I have ever had. Not only was everything we ordered was delicious but our server Alexis and the whole team were amazing. The price is very reasonable and in my opinion on the cheaper side compared to Toronto. Will be back for sure.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfbHRTUXVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ87Zc7csbyUwRvWT5sQpzrbo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfbHRTUXVBRRAB

the epitome of a french diner! started out with the bread / butter / pickles, which came with a side of the best mustard i’ve ever had. split the steak frites & quiche with leek for mains. quiche was good but the steak was REALLY good. fries come with mayo, obviously. really excellent meal, would go again!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnbTZMMXNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ87Zc7csbyUwRvWT5sQpzrbo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnbTZMMXNnRRAB

Good service, the pickles and bread are a great girl dinner way to start the night, the onion cream was veeeeery good and the winner of the night, the steak was good but nothing extraordinary, the liver was not good at all, I  had to return it. Creme brûlée was outstanding. Would be back. The vibe is a jewel overall.

L'Express: Iconic French Bistro in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, Montréal

L'Express, established in December 1980, is a Parisian-style French bistro located in Montreal's Le Plateau-Mont-Royal borough. Founded by Colette Brossoit and Pierre Villeneuve, the restaurant has become a beloved institution known for its classic French cuisine and inviting atmosphere.

Classic French bistro fare with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional preparation.

Onglet Beurre Échalote - Frites

Rognon De Veau- Sauce Moutarde

Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto

Veal Kidney in Mustard Sauce

Grilled Salmon with Lentil

Île Flottante Au Caramel

Profiteroles à L'Érable

Tartelette Citron Ganache

Creme Caramel a L'Orange

L'Express Menu

L'Express Menu Overview - Classic French Bistro Fare in Montréal.

Nestled in the heart of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, L'Express is a true gem for lovers of classic French cuisine. With its bistro-style ambiance, checkered floors, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, this restaurant offers a dining experience that reflects both quality and tradition. Each dish is crafted with high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic taste of culinary artistry. Below, explore the delightful menu that awaits you.

While specific starters are not detailed, the traditional French bistro approach emphasizes the importance of **fresh bread**, house-made pickles, and exquisite butter to set the tone for your meal. These simple yet delicious offerings are perfect for sharing or savoring as a prelude to the main courses.

The main dishes at L'Express showcase the rich flavors and textures of French cuisine. Here are some highlights:

Onglet Beurre Échalote - Frites: Tender hanger steak, complemented by a mouthwatering shallot butter sauce and crispy fries.

Rognon De Veau- Sauce Moutarde: Veal kidney in a delightful mustard sauce, a dish that embodies the essence of French cooking.

Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto: Creamy risotto that blends perfectly with succulent shrimp and earthy mushrooms.

Grilled Salmon with Lentil: A beautifully grilled salmon fillet served alongside nutritious lentils, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Round off your meal with one of L'Express's delightful desserts, crafted to perfection:

Île Flottante Au Caramel: A light meringue dessert beautifully drizzled with rich caramel.

Profiteroles à L'Érable: Puff pastry filled with sweet cream and drizzled with maple syrup.

Tartelette Citron Ganache: A zesty lemon tart perfectly complemented by rich ganache.

Creme Caramel a L'Orange: Creamy caramel infused with a hint of orange for a refreshing finish.

To accompany your meal, L'Express offers a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails, designed to elevate your dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic French wine or a refreshing cocktail, you'll find the perfect pairing to complement every dish.

L'Express regularly features seasonal specials that highlight local produce and unique culinary creations, providing guests with an exciting reason to return.

In conclusion, whether you're a local or a visiting foodie, L'Express is a must-visit destination in Montréal for an unforgettable dining experience steeped in French culinary tradition.

Indulge in exquisite French cuisine at L'Express, a Montreal gem on Rue Saint-Denis. Savor delightful dishes—reserve your table today!

L'Express: Exquisite French Dining in Montréal

Montréal Municipality

L'Express

Open daily from morning until 3:00 a.m., serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night meals.

Late-night dining

Over 11,000 bottles in its cellar, offering a wide selection of wines at affordable prices.

Extensive wine list

Montreal Region

Älskade denna plats. Kom dit vid nio och stället hoppade. Fortfarande fullt när vi åkte vid nästan elva. Servicen var utmärkt. Uppmärksam utan att vara irriterande. Maten var fantastisk. Pate var en trevlig förrätt även om det var för stor en portion för två personer. Raviolin med svampsås och galgen biff med pommes frites var båda läckra. Vinrekommendationer var klockrena. Osttallriken var utmärkt.

Jag återvände med vänner nästan 30 år efter att jag kom första gången och det var lika fantastiskt. Atmosfären är fantastisk - kul, franska Bistro. Servicen enastående. Maten - utsökt. Patén är en av de bästa jag någonsin haft, bland annat i Paris. Jag rekommenderar starkt L'Express om du är i Montreal. Du kommer inte att bli besviken!

Vi har gått till denna restaurang så ofta vi kan (först från New York, nu från längre bort) sedan 1986. Så sent som för tre år sedan kände vi fortfarande medarbetare – vilket tydligen gör en enorm skillnad – och åt en underbar middag. Vi fick äntligen chansen att återvända till Montreal med vänner som inte hade varit på L’Express, och vi var mycket glada. Vi ringde tre månader i förväg för vår bokning, och vi satt vid toaletterna. Min man fick märgbenen, för smala för skeden som tillhandahölls. Jag fick en endiv och blåmögelostsallad, som slumpvis sattes ihop. Laxen vår vän beställde var överkokt och torr. Vaktelreceptet har ändrats... det var slarvigt och smaklöst. Min mans biff var överdränkt. Kundkretsen är inte längre lokal. Det var allt under - klädda och oförskämda turister. Det var en fest med sex högljudda firande av en födelsedag och upp och ner var femte minut. Servitörerna kom inte runt för att kolla på borden, åtminstone inte i Sibirien där vi var, och hela stället hade en likgiltighet för det.

Underbar brasserie upplevelse Fantastisk atmosfär och service för lunch Vi njöt av grönsakssoppa och fisk och skaldjur casino aptitretare Min vaktel huvud var perfektion och mina partners Doré fiska lika gott Kommer att återvända på vårt nästa besök i Montreal för att njuta av andra menyalternativ

Allt från utrymmet och inredningen på denna plats och servicepersonalen är fantastisk! Ropa ut till vår fantastiska buss person som var på den hela tiden hålla allt klart och utbytt. Vår server Xavier tog fantastiskt hand om oss och gjorde så många bra rekommendationer. Vi började med vin och baguette och delade sedan på rödbetor och gröna sallader och laxförrätterna som var otroliga. Vi åt alla sedan bifffrites som var så goda och möra. Toppade alltihop med lönnkrämspuffstårta. Wow! ! ! Rekommenderas starkt och kommer tillbaka. Tack så mycket.

Vi går till L Express 2 - 3 gånger per år, denna gång för efterteatermiddag. Som vanligt kissar vi. Den blev besviken. Fantastisk livlig fransk bistro atmosfär superb service och en utmärkt fisksoppa och biff och pommes frites. Bäst av allt kan du fortfarande få en flaska vin till ett rimligt pris ( en Sancerre för $ 60 ) . Vi kommer tillbaka

11 av 10 ! Spektakulär, omedelbar, autentisk atmosfär i kombination med professionell service med ett leende och helt enkelt utsökt mat!

Min fru och jag åt middag på L’Express en onsdagskväll under en resa till Montreal efter att ha läst om det i NYT. Den levde upp till sitt rykte. Personalen var varm, välkomnande och skicklig, vilket gör att vi känner oss bekväma direkt. Måltiden började med pickles och bröd — en enkel men minnesvärd touch. L’Express känns som en äkta fransk bistro, den sort som inspirerat platser som Pastis eller Parc (båda mina favoriter). Det påminde mig om en restaurang jag en gång besökte på Île Saint - Louis i Paris, vilket bidrar till dess äkthet. Vi delade på en grönsallad, biff frites och en pastaspecial med köttbullar i röd sås. Varje maträtt var ren, enkel och väl - utförd. Restaurangen var fullspäckad, med alla platser fyllda, och atmosfären var mysig och livlig. Vi har haft den sofistikerade lokala prat och charmen i utrymmet. Det är lätt att förstå varför L’Express har funnits i årtionden. Maten, servicen och atmosfären är toppen - notch, och priserna är rimliga för kvaliteten. Det omgivande området var också ett trevligt område att utforska. Reservationer är ett måste. Rekommenderas starkt!

Det här stället är helt enkelt underbart. Personalen och maten är bra. Vissa tider på dagen kan det vara bullrigt och man behöver nästan alltid en reservation.

Detta är en mycket upptagen restaurang så reservationer är ett måste, även på en vardag. Menyn är mycket intressant och erbjuder en mängd utmärkta val. Som förrätt var "rillettes maison" enastående och som förrätt var risotton god men inte särskilt anmärkningsvärd. Min fru fann "moules dijon" helt utmärkt. Servicen var enastående. Vinlistan är mycket prisvärd. Platsen är ganska bullriga och du har bara 2 timmar att njuta av din måltid, även om denna regel inte strikt upprätthålls.

Topp 3 restaurang som jag någonsin varit på. Tog min fru där 6 år, sedan, och nyligen gick tillbaka med mina 2 döttrar och barnbarn. Allt var bra och servicen oklanderlig. Vakteln och Vichyssoise är att dö för.

Perfektion. Mat, dryck, service, atmosfär. Allt är så välbalanserat. Inredningen och den fantastiska vinlistan bidrar till en lycklig stund.

Sen lunch på LExpress idag. Det var mycket svårt att boka så jag fick en 15:00 tid slot. Vår förväntan var där uppe med tanke på antalet recensioner. Vi åt ceviche, galgstek och torskfisk med skinka som ingick i deras specialmeny. Maten var bara ok och servicen var långsam. Fick vänta länge för att få vattenservice. Det är en ok resturant men återigen med tanke på antalet recensioner och all hype våra förväntningar var hög. Matpriserna var lägre än förväntat och kanske är det därför det finns så många recensioner. Förresten resturant namn är ingen plats att hitta utanför byggnaden. Det tog ett tag att hitta den.

Helt utsökt. Första måltiden på mitt besök. Jag åt tomat och burrata. Sen hade ankan confit och det var helt perfekt. Min le flottante au caramel var också utsökt, hade varit perfekt att dela.

Reservera tidigt för detta i - efterfrågan restaurang speciellt för sällskap av två eller du kommer att sitta i baren — som kan vara bra. Maten — oavsett vad du väljer — är fantastisk. Genom åren har vi provat det mesta av menyn. Personalen är ytterst professionell, mycket kompetent, uppmärksam och exceptionellt trevlig. Vi skulle ha känt som om vi var i Paris om de inte hade varit så trevligt! Den mycket stilige hovmästaren (den 6 juli 2024 ) var kompetent men behöver låna den ”fina” sidan från sina kollegor servrarna. Observera att detta är en liten restaurang med ganska trånga utrymmen mellan borden. Även om vi inte kände en brist på integritet, om du behöver mycket utrymme, är detta inte platsen för dig.

Discover L'Express in Montreal's Le Plateau-Mont-Royal—authentic French cuisine, a lively atmosphere, and late-night dining. Book your table now!

Experience the French Charm at L'Express Montreal - Iconic Bistro

Get insider tips for visiting L'Express Montreal—delicious dishes, extensive wine list, and vibrant ambiance. Plan your visit today!

Explore Montreal's L'Express - Top French Bistro & Dining Tips

Learn about L'Express in Montreal—a beloved French bistro established in 1980, famed for its authentic ambiance and high-quality cuisine.

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