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| - Despite reading recent negative reviews, I decided to finally try out Le Chien Fumant against my better judgement. What struck me first was that it was empty for Sunday brunch. Brunch in Montreal is usually synonymous with long lines and high volume. One table of customers was being served while the rest of the staff awkwardly loitered at the bar. When we were ready to order, I asked if my eggs can be done "over easy", to which the waitress responded that they are done sunny side up. Confused, I asked whether the chef can flip the spatula and turn over the egg, to create an over easy egg. The waitress came back and said that the restaurant "does not have the equipment" to do my eggs over easy (sarcasm noted). Meanwhile, an unshaven and disheveled-looking manager and kitchen staff at the bar stared at our table, smirking, and seemed to enjoy watching our confused reaction. It was very awkward and we felt like we were being attacked. Needless to say, we walked out after the snide remark from our server, as we have never been treated so rudely in a restaurant setting. Nobody stopped us from leaving nor apologized.
I understand a chef that does not want to change his cooking method, but I will never condone the staff of a restaurant treating patrons with sarcasm and disrespect. An establishment that is this small, empty, and off the beaten path should be very weary of letting a customer walk out with such a bad taste in their mouth. You've received an onslaught of negative reviews recently (particularly for service), and it is now blatantly obvious why. Word of mouth is a POWERFUL THING, and we will make sure to do our utmost to dissuade family, friends, and colleagues from funding your unmerited arrogance.
As a Montrealer and food lover, I can easily say this was the worst restaurant experience in my own city.
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