Montreal, a city steeped in history, culture, and vibrant energy, boasts countless gastronomic treasures. One such jewel that has managed to shine bright is Groupe Barroco. A hospitality magnate that has grown expansively since its inception in 2008, Barroco stands as an epitome of innovation and impeccable service, seamlessly combining food, art, and ambiance.
Being rooted in Montreal, Flanelle has been privileged to dive deep into the city’s gastronomic delights, notably some of Groupe Barroco’s standout spot. Here’s our handpicked Top 3: Barroco Restaurant for fine dining in the Old Port of Montreal, Foiegwa for a more laid back canteen in St-Henri, And Atwater Cocktail Club for sipping on magical drinks.
Barroco Restaurant: A Historic Ode to Fine Dining
La crème de la crème. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, one might stumble upon Barroco Restaurant, a haven where tradition and sophistication blend seamlessly. The setting, intimate and inviting, feels elegant amidst comfort. The limited seating ensures an ambiance of exclusivity, facilitating personal interactions and meticulous service.
The interiors paint a vivid picture: gray rocky walls, illuminated by soft purple lights, juxtaposed against vintage plates emblazoned with quintessential Quebecois expressions. The culinary masterpieces inspired by France and Spain, however, steal the limelight. Dishes, like the perfectly cooked Entrecôte AAA steak and the aromatic paella, are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor. The wine pairing, curated with expert precision, elevates the dining experience, and absolutely hit the mark. It is undoubtedly one of the top restaurants in Montreal.
Foiegwa: Where Art and Gastronomy Collide
In the bustling neighborhood of Saint-Henri lies Foiegwa, an establishment that recently bore witness to a transcendent amalgamation of art and food. Situated in what was once La Belle Province in Saint-Henri, the Barroco Group teamed up with the Gauley Brothers to transform Foiegwa into a top-notch Americanized French Diner. Though it radiates elegance and sophistication, the atmosphere stays cozy and laid-back. On a special evening of august, the soiree was graced by the artistic strokes of Lucas Beaufort and offered guests an immersive blend of delectable cuisine and live artistry. Beaufort, renowned for his collaborations with global brands from Adidas to Virgin Atlantics, painted graphic strokes and drew whimsical characters, transforming the diner’s ambiance. Amidst the flavors and colors, a Petanque alley tempt attendees, encouraging spirited interactions and fostering profound discussions on freedom, climate change, and the essence of travel.
Atwater Cocktail Club: A Hidden Gem
If you’ve ever played “spot the hidden door”, Atwater Cocktail Club is the ultimate challenge. Keep an eye out for silver poles connected by a red line and a casual bouncer in a dim alley. The graffiti-covered door hints, “Looking for a speakeasy? You’ve found it.”
As you step inside, the air, tinged with the faint aroma of smoky wood, carries whispers of tales from bygone eras. The chevron floor is a beauty, and while the place begins with a soft, dreamy vibe, it soon livens up. Although the ambiance starts with a hint of nostalgia – a mellow, almost romantic undertone – as the night matures, the scene blossoms into a lively, joyous atmosphere. If the walls could talk, they’d probably recount stories of the hip crowd, mostly in their 30s, grooving to the rhythm of underground tunes and hip-hop beats.
The culinary offerings mirror those of their trendy neighbor, Foiegwa. Tasty without a doubt, yet, the star of the show at Atwater are the cocktails. While the cocktails are the stuff of legends, for those who prefer their dance without the kick of alcohol, the mocktails are a true delight. They’re so delightful that even the most die-hard liquor aficionados might contemplate a switch. Hats off to Kate Boushel, the Director of Beverage and Education, who’s undoubtedly the mastermind behind this symphony of flavors.
To put a cherry on top, Atwater Cocktail Club isn’t just a local favorite. It’s #3 on Canada’s 50 Best Bars 2023 and proudly sits at #32 in North America’s 50 Best Bars 2023. So, the next time you fancy a drink that’s served with a side of ‘je ne sais quoi’, you know where to head!
As vast as these experiences may seem, the Groupe Barroco universe has even more to offer, from the eclectic 90’s vibe of Bon Délire to the picturesque allure of Milky Way, and the savory Neapolitan brilliance of Fugazzi. Each venue is a narrative unto itself, unified by Barroco’s unwavering commitment to premium ingredients, exceptional service, and a mesmerizing ambiance that ensures every day feels like a festivity.
Text by Sarah-Eve Leduc
Photos by Madeline Plamondon
