Eat & Drink

Portugal is known for its beautiful coastlines, exquisite food and warm, passionate culture. All but the beaches were on offer when we braved the post-snowstorm weather to visit Quebec’s first Portuguese “bring your own wine” restaurant.

Bitoque re-emerged late last year with a revamped menu and BYOW status, while still maintaining its welcoming, tasteful ambiance. In the mood for some sampling (well, aren’t we always?), we ordered from the Entrées & Tapas menu (updated à la carte and table d’hôte menus are also offered).

The velvety smooth Tomatoes Confit Stuffed with Goat Cheese ($6) was scrumptious, as were the Fresh Cod Balls with Citrus Chutney ($6) and the mouth-watering Grilled Chorizo on Grilled Vegetable Fritatta ($7). The tender Fried Calamari with Herb Aïoli ($7) and the buttery, spicy-sauced “Piri-Piri Shrimp” ($7) also made a strong impression.

After indulging in the ultra-light Caramel Cheese Cake ($5), we headed downstairs past the displays of original artwork to the Influences Art Gallery, where we basked in a final wave of warmth with local artist Mélissa Gervais’s colourful abstract oil masterpieces.

Bitoque’s brand of Mediterranean hospitality successfully took the chill out of winter (and we won’t be waiting for the next snowstorm to return).  

If you thought that was sweet, you’ll enjoy:

• Glamour Restaurant
• Café Vasco da Gama