Wednesday, May 16, 2007

The Spirite Lounge

My mind is in the world of vegetarianism lately and I've been reminded, with extreme fondness, of The Spirite Lounge, on Rue Ontario in Montreal's Gay Village.
If you are ever in Montreal, be sure to make reservations because this place is so quintessentially Secret Montreal...it's phenomenal. They sort of follow the same schtick as The Elbow Room on Davie in Vancouver...a dining experience with a side of arrogance and no room for patronizing the guests. But the food is much more gourmet - vegetarian, organic, table d'hote and so creative, you'll scratch your head in wonder. Sorbets, salads, soups, crepes and I've never had something there I didn't like. But check your sensibilities at the door and be prepared for a boisterous evening sparring with the owner (who often has his hair slicked into devil's horns) admist an atmosphere of tinfoil-cum-wall paper, mirrors and leopard print.
The place is run by two men: Patrice and Roz-Man - one cooks, one serves the food, and the attitude. Rumor has it that one guest had his cell phone unceremoniously dunked in his water glass when it rang and was answered in the dining area. Hey...fair warning, there are large signs at the door declaring the cell phone ban.
The rules are that you must clean your plate (they offer different sized portions), and if you don't they charge you an extra $2 (which they match and contribute to a local charity), and you can't have dessert. If you do order dessert (usually a flourless, delicious chocolate something with sorbet), and don't finish it...you're banned for life.
I've never seen anyone not finish their dessert.
Oh! I urge you to go...it's just fabulous.

1 comment:

Amy said...

ya! that place is awesome...