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| - As the most interesting guy in the world says, "I don't often dine extravagantly when in Montreal, but when I do it's at Liverpool House." In late at night from NY and (train) starved - about at the border I realized a nice tender lamb dish was something I needed, whatever it took. I texted my ride on running late and the plan was laid. Joe Beef. But that had a wait of 1.5 hours. Plan B (on J Beef recommendation was next door to Liverpool House - same owners). No reservations in a packed house but a small table opened in 10 minutes and they got us in.
Water: ordered carbonated bottled, my ride ordered glass of Grigo, and I a bottle of craft Wheat Caster ale.
We ordered/shared a cold vegetable plate enhanced with some cockles and plenty of seasonal, slightly marinated radishes, spring potatoes, green beans, etc. We described what we had in mind to our waiter and narrowed the main courses down to sharing the lamb roast, a very large cut perfectly done with a raspberry relish accompaniment and pine nuts - served on a large platter swimming in juices and flavor, flavor, flavor. broiled cauliflower alongside. The lamb was probably the finest I can remember enjoying--all expectations exceeded. As a side we made a valiant attempt at finishing a risotto dish. Did I say we trusted our waiter, a friendly and sufficiently attentive sort, on wine? I took him up on a French red to pair with the joint. The wine list is a challenge in the setting (dim, tight, boisterous with happy couples and parties) and almost inaccessible above and behind a few of the cramped tables.
We shared a pistachio pastry the next table recommended and what a treat it was - I had a cappuccino and took home almost half the lamb we'll serve as hors d'ourves tomorrow. This will be a hit.
If you are worried about the cost, you ought not opt to dine here. It is expensive. Roast, two sides, dessert, 1 cappuccino, 2 glasses select wine, 1/2 litre beer and tip totaled approximately $240 CDN. I will be back again this Fall to follow the ever-changing menu where it will lead.
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