Just in time for Valentine’s Day, a new culinary address is poised to become a favourite rendez-vous for theatre lovers and downtown gourmets alike.
Beautiful renovated interior and attentive staff makes Le Clara a convenient and welcoming addition to Place des Arts – Photo Monica Wong
Le Clara, the newly reimagined French inspired brasserie at Place des Arts, has officially opened its doors, offering an elegant and refined dining experience steps away from Montréal’s most iconic stages.
Formerly known as Place Deschamps, the restaurant has undergone a thoughtful transformation, emerging with a softer, more polished aesthetic. The redesigned interior by Atelier Zébulon Perron in collaboration with Patriarche creates a warm and intimate setting that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Whether you are heading to a performance or lingering after curtain call, Le Clara provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Several options on the menu and a full wine and cocktail selection for all tastes – Photo Monica Wong
The experience begins beautifully at the bar. The Classy Lady raspberry mocktail is as sophisticated as its name suggests. Vibrant and refreshing, it balances bright raspberry notes with a gentle citrus lift, making it a delightful and elegant alcohol free option to start the meal.
For those seeking something spirited, La Germaine, a very fresh gin based cocktail, is equally compelling. Crisp, aromatic, and impeccably balanced, it awakens the palate and sets the tone for the refined cuisine to follow. Both drinks feel celebratory, ideal for a romantic evening or a pre-show toast.
In the kitchen, chef Agathe Salmeron, formerly of Théophile, collaborates with chef Laure Rougelot and sous chef Gabriella Mongeau to present a menu rooted in French tradition while highlighting seasonal and local ingredients. The trio brings precision and harmony to each plate.
Appetizers to wet the appetite – Photo Genevieve Roy
To begin, the scallops nestled in squash puree were a standout. Tender and sweet, they were beautifully complemented by the subtle earthiness of the surrounding minced vegetables.
The grilled octopus served over salad offered a pleasing contrast of textures, perfectly charred and resting atop crisp greens that added freshness and brightness.
The trout was not only visually appealing but extremely tasty and soft – Photo Genevieve Roy
For the main course, the lamb shank was exceptional. Cooked to perfection, the meat melted effortlessly off the bone, rich and deeply flavorful without feeling heavy.
Equally impressive was the trout, served with creamy butter and topped with ratatouille. The dish was both comforting and refined, with the buttery sauce enhancing the fish’s natural delicacy while the tomatoes added a welcome burst of acidity.
Decadent desserts ! Photo : Genevieve Roy
Dessert provided a graceful finale. The pear tart was crisp and aromatic, its fruit filling balanced and not overly sweet. The île flottante was equally satisfying, light and airy with just the right touch of sweetness, allowing the custard and meringue to shine without overwhelming the palate.
Under the attentive leadership of director and maître d’hôtel Martin Gilbert, alongside sommelier Jocelyn Gaudet and a seasoned service team, hospitality remains at the heart of the experience. Owners Lyne Simard and Pierre Vincent R. Lemieux, also behind Théophile and Le Parva, continue their commitment to quality ingredients and an impressive wine list featuring up to 200 references, with many available by the glass.
The name Clara pays homage to the beloved character from The Nutcracker, a nod to the magic that has animated Place des Arts every holiday season for over fifty years. It is a fitting tribute for a restaurant so closely connected to the performing arts.
Located at 175 Sainte Catherine Street West, Le Clara feels destined to become a staple for anyone with a show reservation at Place des Arts.
With its refined ambiance, polished service, and thoughtfully crafted menu, this new brasserie is ready to take center stage in Montréal’s dining scene.
Reservations are highly recommended for show nights as the restaurant almost always is fully booked.
For more information and to reserve please visit :
https://www.restaurantleclara.com/en
Dining and Cooking