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| - Such a lovely set of circumstances led me to Cadet. It started several years ago, wherein I was destined to come to Montreal. That's beyond the scope of this review, but important to note in the story. With that as context, it seemed like such good fortune for me to have dinner here two weeks ago.
I was road wary, having waited several years to visit Montreal, followed by several hours waiting for a delayed plane. By the time I arrived it was dark and late but the weather was absolutely perfect. After checking into the hotel, I headed out to finally, FINALLY really arrive.
Hunger took over my mind, despite the lights, people, and energy on the street. Not two blocks from my hotel on Saint-Laurent, I fired up the Yelp app and it pointed me right in the direction of Cadet. Another block and I was there, my eyes confirming what the app was saying: it's completely underspoken, soft, cozy, warm, and perfect.
I walked in and was greeted by a full house. At this point, it was after 10pm and people were sipping their wine and laughing, and in that soft light it seemed like there was no place else I should be. As a solo diner I opted to sit at the bar. The delightful bartender (Katherine? Oh dear... I have forgotten her name) took really good care of me, and helped me feel right at home. She helped with a few recommendations and then let me be. But was polite in conversation, even to a guy like me who wasn't drinking.
Broccoli with spaƫtzle with a creamy schmear of I dunno what? Yes, beautiful. But that beautiful eggplant, served sliced the long way, was amazing. Just right. Just the right size. It was a special that night, but if they've got it, you need it.
They looked to have a great wine selection and know their way around a drink. I didn't get dessert, but now kinda wish I had. If you're looking for a great place to share a meal with friends, and especially with a date, this would certainly fit the bill. Great smaller plates, drinks -- the whole thing was a perfect welcome to years of pent-up desire to visit Montreal.
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