With emerging artists, refurbished warehouses and new urban parks, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve is an up-and-coming neighbourhood. And with “HoMa” now accessable via bike path, we’ve discovered an easier (read: guilt-free) way to sample its innovative cuisine.
Hopping onto our vélos, we peddled to HoMa’s hidden French brasserie, Le Valois. It has a commanding presence, with terrace seating for over 100 people and a cozy interior warmed by coloured glass and wood (thank the designer for such flattering lighting).
Starting with a glass of white sangria ($6.95), we nibbled down a dish of mushroom fricassee with escargot ($9). We used a crusty baguette (supplied by the bakery next door) to sop up every last drop of the delightful sauce. Full of confidence, we moved onto the house specialty, beef tartar served with thick fries ($19). Our evening ended with a classic comfort dessert, Quatre quarts aux pommes caramélisées, crème au Baileys ($6). Vanilla pound cake with chunks of baked apple and a shooter of Baileys to drizzle on top…mmm.
Chatting to our neighbours, we learned that they also have a fabulous brunch. The omelettes and crepes ($8.95-$12) are enormous and presented on a dramatic plate with fruit and veggie garnish.
Spilling onto the sidewalk and mounting our bikes, we somehow managed to peddle away, doggy bags stowed conveniently in our panniers.
Le Valois
25 Place Simon Valois (corner of Ontario)
514-528-0202
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