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| - I don't know why but i keep forgetting about the Sainte Elisabeth. Be this because it's tucked away on an adorable sidestreet or because each of my visits have been so relaxing and hassle-free, i do not know. However, i have been both in summer and in winter and enjoyed myself immensely every time.
As with most of my Montreal favourites, what i like about this venue is its multiculturality. Located right next to UQAM but still just a hop-skip-and-jump from the Plateau and swarms of McGill students, the crowd is thoroughly bilingual and tables frequently switch between languages. What could be more typically Montreal than this?
The inner-courtyard is just fabulous. At least fifteen feet high, the walls are covered in ivy and at night the lights create a homey glow - i half expect little fairies to pop up at any moment. Even on windy days (like yesterday), one can enjoy the terrasse protected from the cool breezes but in the shade. Although yesterday i was cursing this (i am trying to stop smoking), as the courtyard is unroofed you can smoke freely - but the air still circulates.
Of course, we only have about three months of the year when outdoor drinking is feasible, but an excellent selection of beers with daily specials, friendly wait staff, clean washrooms and comfy benches make the indoor experience equally pleasurable.
A word to the wise, however - some online reviewers mention great food. There is no kitchen at the Sainte Elisabeth - they order in the food from the outside. Hence, i have never ordered the food myself. Too close to other great venues (like Frite Alors) to be worth chancing it!
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