Organization

 

 

My husband and I discovered the Restaurant Sens , by accident…really! We had an accident on the highway …we lost a wheel (rear-left side). Rest assured, we were not harmed , but shaken quite a bit . To make a story short, we got towed to the Garage (Sega Chrysler St-Bruno) where they took care of everything. The repairs will be long, so we had no choice but to go to the Hotel. The Mortagne was suggested, and we went.

After getting to our room, we noticed that they had a terrace (a real nice one). After a glass of wine, and calming down a little bit (we were shaken after the accident , a very stressful event). We got down, sat on a sofa (it was very quiet and nice), superb place to be after such a scare. We noticed a few persons (staff) around the outdoor bar (counter), they were talking together, without noticing us (I figured), I went to the bar, and ordered our first drinks …making sure to let them know of our ordeal of the day. One gentleman (I guess it was the manager or something like that, was compassionate) . We had our drink while reminiscing the whole experience, that could have turned more badly . After a while, we were expecting that a waiter or waitress would showed up and ask if we want something else, but it did not happened. I had to return to the bar and asked again….but this time, I said If I were you guys, I would make sure to take good care of my clients , because at the end of your shift, the way you act will directly reflect on your tips.

They got my message, after that one of them ( young Italian man, he even spoke Spanish with me , it was real nice and unexpected, he was very nice.. Piedro , I think? but I am not sure,  sorry!) , more experienced or money wise, took the lead and was our waiter for the rest of the evening . At some points, we have met two salesperson who joined us on our sofa. We chatted a while, having a few more drinks ( it was also the Latino night and a live Cuban band was playing on site) and decided to stay for dinner (it was getting late, at around 9h00 ) . The experience was superb. the food is succulent (gourmet style). It was a very positive experience , that make us want to return  the next day(we had nowhere else to go), stuck at the hotel waiting for our jeep to be fixed. When we’ve returned , our yesterday’s waiter was fast on offering drinks and suggested food we should try at dinner. I listened to his suggestions and order a trio of spiced food ( I specifically said nothing too fat) and It was fat (but one’s taste is not another one). He offered something else, but that was it for me, I was not hungry anymore.

The service, started very slow and difficult, but once they are organized, or once they know that you are good clients (I am not sure which one comes first), they will run to make sure you are pleased with everything.

The Restaurant’s name couldn’t be more perfect, it’s an all SENSes experience (even more true in the summer). Beautiful for the eyes, agreeable for the ears (Latino Thursdays), Sensational for the nose (fresh herbs and gourmet food), Delectable for the palate (taste fresh and amazing),  the touch…well, if you happen to have a companion with you (hold hands or share fingers food) and if you have a 6th sense, you know that you have to visit that establishment.

I would definitely recommend to everyone, doesn’t matter if your a groups, between friends, colleagues, a family, a couple on honeymoon or even solo, in town for business. They will have something to make you want to return as soon as possible.

Suggestion: you have to try the Duck mousse “mousse foie de canard” with Clos du Bois wine!

 It’s a huge two tombs up for me!

 

A fabulous find after a disastrous accident

Hotel Mortagne

1228 Rue Nobel,

Boucherville, Quebec J4B5H1, Canada

1-866-500-4938

http://www.hotelmortagne.com

reservation@hotelmortagne.com

 

It was the first day of our 3 weeks summer vacation (July 2014), it was a beautiful day, sunny with no cloud, but a bit cold. We took the road with our jeep and our camper-trailer . Heading to Quebec city (our fist stop). The road was on construction (In Canada , especially in the province of Quebec, most of the road are in constructions for years) nothing new. It was bumpy and we couldn’t even drive at speed limits (we were towing the camper). We started hearing strange noise and the jeep was acting funny (but no worries, it was at the garage for the past 10 days, for maintenance and some repairs, like the brakes, and calipers) . We were just past St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Qc. Getting close to Ste-Julie. when  I said to my husband, shouldn’t we stop and check what’s going on (it’s shacking a lot now), My husband said that he will stop in a few minutes, when their is less traffic . A few minutes after that, it happened….we lost a wheel (rear-left side). Rest assured, we were not harmed , but shaken quite a bit . To make a story short, we got towed to the Garage (Sega Chrysler St-Bruno) where they took care of everything. The repairs will be long, so we had no choice but to go to the Hotel.

One of the local Gentleman’s that was at the garage, suggested Hotel Mortagne (in Boucherville) 10 minutes away from the garage ( fairly new, good restaurant, higher quality, pool, terrace, close to stores and other restaurants). I just took my IPhone and made the reservation. We got to the hotel at around 3h00 pm. The receptionist did her job well, but when I mentioned that I was there because of a car accident on the highway, and that I had to book online with my phone and that it was not an easy task (the website is not IPhone or Ipad friendly..it kept asking me to go to the main website) , it only offered to book a room (no choice of rates possible ) she didn’t reacted.

We finally got our Room keys, went upstairs ( we were on the 5th floor) . As soon as we walked-in, we both said the same thing, it could have been worst. We didn’t had any expectations, we were not planning a stay in that area at all. The bedroom is huge, with nice furniture, clean, no dust, no stains, no bad odors . The bathroom , is also a very comfy size, with saloon’s full doors, It’s different. The shower, is large and functional (no need to worry about low pressure or not having hot water).  Now, it’s time to talk about The view…It’s in an industrial part of the town (so you can see lots of vans and vehicles), but if your lucky enough to get a room that is above the patio (terrace) you will be very happy with the view, because not only you got to see the amazing terrace (with flowers, trees and many other plants), it’s like being down-south for a moment. You will also , be able to see the Olympic Stadium in Montreal (you have a direct view),

The bed and pillows are very nice (one firm and one soft), the mattress is more on the soft side, but we have good night sleeps (even if we were still shaken from the accident).

I had only a few problems during my stay. One was about the ladies room next to the restaurant , one of the toilet, was so dirty (someone must have been very sick ) it needed to be cleaned real bad. I told the staff at the reception, and within minutes it was cleaned (spotless cleaned) . I returned about an hour after and it was done.  My other problem, was about the rate of the room, as I told previously, the website was not Iphone or Ipad friendly, so I couldn’t select Governement rate, and mentioned it on check-in (without saying that I wanted that specific rate). I assumed that it would be fine anyway. On the second day, after I was a bit more calm (less stressed then on my first day), and remembered that I should tell them about the rate that I needed. The lady at the reception, said no we can’t . I asked to see her manager, she was gone home. On the day of my check-out (after 2 nights), I asked again the lady that was working that day (Roxanne), she was kind enough, to say that she was not able to do it manually on her computer, but she would let her manager help me with that. The next day, I received an email from the manager Mrs Katrine Montbriand , she gave me the rate (I have showed Roxanne the proper Id card ). The adjustments was done and was attached to my email. After all that we’ve been trough, we were grateful that she agreed to refund the difference . Thanks to Roxanne for making the request. I appreciate it!

So people, if you have difficulties using the website, you shouldn’t hesitate to call directly to the hotel , with all your specific demands.

Would I recommend this Hotel? of course I would,  without any hesitation. If you have to go in that area and consider just passing-by, you should make a stop and stay for a night, really you should!

 

The best Restaurant In The Gigantic Saguenay- Lac-Saint-Jean

Port D’Attache

 

860 Rue Arthur, Roberval,

Quebec G8H 2M1, Canada

(418) 765-1200

http://portdattache.ca

My husband and I just bought a Sailing-boat at the Roberval Marina, and decided to start our vacations on our boat . It was during the festivities of The Traversée internationale du Lac St-Jean , The town of Roberval probably triples in size during a full week.  We were expecting to find a good table for the two of us. The Port d’Attache is located in the Marina’s building (they have 2 level and a huge outdoor terrace that is the best place to admire the boats) . The restaurant is managed by a team , leaded by two fantastic ladies , the twins sisters , Denise and Diane Maroux. 

My experience: We went to the restaurant, expecting to have a table with a view…foolish of us, it was full , and at the time, I didn’t really believed it . Since the upstairs terrace was empty, that’s where we asked to be seated instead. The waitress told us, that if it rains , the chance to get us inside, is minimal to none. We still stick to our idea of eating outside. We placed our order, my first choice was to get the Fondu Vignerone ( a fondue with fresh cut slices of filet mignon). To my greatest deception , we can’t have that outside (of course not, open flame in the wind). We ordered , steaks and a very good bottle of wine. We just received the bottle of wine, when we noticed the sudden changed in the winds and the formation of huge dark clouds. I looked at my husband and said it’s not going to be pretty. I jumped out of my chair, and ran to Kevin (one of the waiter), I told him, it’s going to be ugly in a few minutes, could you do a miracle and find us a small area inside (even the smallest), He said all cute, don’t worry mam, it’s not going to rain, we are used to those clouds around here, it will be all gone in a few minutes….I insisted that it was a matter of minutes before the rain gets here and it will hit real hard. He went inside, got us a table (a small one, but a table inside close to the bar). I returned to my husband, the waitress (Carolanne ) was arriving with our steaks, I said lets go inside, we have a table, it’s now or never, or the steaks are going to be flooded. We just got to the table inside, and the rain started ( heavy rain and winds). Kevin, came to me after that and asked me for the weather predictions for the next day. Again, I have to say thank you to both of them , Kevin and Carolanne, you were totally awesome for helping us, our evening was saved! Total amount for that evening (Two steaks, one very good bottle of wine and a cognac) 110$ without the tips. Quality/price, you can’t compare to anywhere else, it’s a gourmet meal at the price of a fast-food chain. One note about the baguette bread ….If they forget to bring you some, you really should insist on getting it, it’s warm and they have soft buttercream (frosting kind of) mixed with fresh green onions…it’s to die for !

After that first experience, well…let’s say that we were addicted. We returned at least 6 times during our 2 weeks at the marina , we had breakfasts, we had Lunches , afternoon snacks and drinks, and of course more dinners (just the two of us or with some family members). Every time, it was superb, the staff always pleasant and welcoming (even to tourists). Even if they know me now, I think that they are wonderful with every one and don’t take your patronage for granted. They are truly appreciative.

Recommendations: You should make a reservation, ask for a table close to a window (the view), tip the staff well (they work very very hard and they deserve more gratitude).

It’s  a Restaurant that is accessible to anyone ; families (with kids or teenagers), between friends, solo, couples (good for romantic dinner’s as well), the can accommodate even larger groups (a wedding reception happened while we were at the marina) .

The Marcoux’s sisters have succeeded with that business, I predict that they will be in business for a very very long time …franchises in a near future perhaps? It would be nice, to see more restaurant like that .

Kudos to the owners and the staff!

On ne sait jamais quand une critique touristique est en ville!

A Tourist’s Charmer

Stayner’s Wharf Pub & Grill

5075 George St

Halifax, NS B3J 1M3

 

902-492-1800

http://staynerswharf.com/

 

It was my second day in Halifax (8 days vacation), I was walking around in the area of  the Upper water street. When my husband text me (he was at the convention center for the week), he was on lunch break, he wanted to know where I was and If I was ready to have lunch, so we’ve meet on Upper street and decided that the closest Pub-Restaurant was Stayner’s Wharf Pub & Grill . We decided to sit on the patio (terrace) outside, it was a lovely day, lots of sunshine and it was hot ( we used the patio umbrella).  As soon as we found a table, the waitress was ready to take our order (a couple of beers on the tap and a fish n’ chips) , they are used to have lots of clients at lunch time, so they were well prepared and organized . We got our meal and beers, even had time to talk a little bit with the waitress (very charming, knowledgeable  and tourist’s oriented) , she was very helpful when it came to suggestions on where I should go for a visit that afternoon (The lower water street, the boardwalk and the historic properties) , she even mentioned that If I get bored alone, I can always come back for another beer and a chat with her.

The food was very good, the beer was very cold and the price, amazingly low for the quality of food and the service. So, we tipped very well!

I am a maritimer and most of us are very social, but with all my years of travelling;  I can say that we can’t generalised on that one, some persons are not social and can’t interact with visitors, but in that case , they know how to make a fist impression on tourist. She made us feel at home and welcome.

It’s one of my best experience during that 8 days trip; I would recommend to anyone to try Stayner’s, and please , let me know if it’s the same thing year-round. Perhaps it was just a summer thing?!

 

Luxuriant and Delicious…for the eyes and the palate

The Five Fishermen

1740 Argyle St, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2W1, Canada

(902) 422-4421

http://fivefishermen.com/

Impressive, would be the first word to describe my initial impression. It was my first time at that restaurant, my husband was at a Criminal Lawyers convention and that Restaurant was suggested to them. We were taking a long walk by the end of the week, when we decided to try them (at least go in and see if the menu fits our taste and wallet).  Without a reservation , showing up and asking to see the menu. We sat down on a little cushioned bench in front of the oysters tank (yummy right away). They have two different menus, one for the upstairs (where it’s more like the gourmet food ) and the first level (more casual and lounge food). For what we wanted to eat the evening (and my husband was feeling romantic). Telling the waiter, that we would like to go upstairs finally. He told us that lucky for us a few table were still available.   

From the moment we got upstairs, it was a huge WOW, the decors are sensational, lots of wood, chandeliers, crystals, elegant curtains , utensils, dishes, in resume;  it’s all dedicated to please the most difficult clients. Like my title says, it’s luxuriant for the eyes and the palate.

They have a real nice selection on the menu, from aged steaks, fresh fishes, sea food, and many other delicatessen . The wine list is exhaustive (from 50$ to 360$ a bottle) , same thing with the cocktails, or liquor selections. Note: The fresh oysters are fresh and succulent.

We have had a great evening, the food was excellent, the wine divine, I finished with a cognac that was as delicious as everything else.

The only negative point, the staff…when we arrived one of the host was playing role’s game with the oysters (I told him to stop playing with my food). Then our waitress got confused with our choice of wine ( she brought the bottle at the table , opens it then got all confused, took it back to the kitchen after filling our first glass, then came back to apologized saying that it was the wrong wine, but pour us some more as an apologies…then came back to the table still confused and apologizing , we told her that it was our choice since we’ve ordered, it was the wright bottle of wine ) … after that incident , I don’t know if she was still feeling bad about what happened with the wine , but she dropped some water on the table and on me when filling our glasses.

With all this said, I would not hesitate to return. It’s expensive, but it is well worth every pennies.

Tip: it’s usually crowded, so you better make a reservation at least a couple days before .

Price: $$$

Value: 5 out of 5

Venue: 5 out of 5

I would recommend absolutely !

Resto Déli.Grec

Resto Déli.Grec

739 Rue Saint-Bernard  Quebec City, QC G1N 1J4
(418) 683-4910

www.deli–grec.com/

 

I visited the Resto Déli.Grec  on June 2, 2012  for Lunch , I was with some family members (all adults) , It`s was quiet, not much customers .  The Restaurant, is right at the corner of Saint-Bernard and Lafayette, it’s not in the tourists area so I encourage you to get a map . The parking is on the street.  If you don’t feel like going out for Lunch or Dinner, it’s good to know that they also deliver.

From the minute I walk-inn, I was totally on the charm of the establishment, it’s like you’ve just landed in Greece ( except for the background music, was a local radio station), the waitress was welcoming, well mannered, the service was fast enough and not rushy . We ordered our food, I took the Gyro plate are as said in Greek: γύρος 😉 I took a local beer with that , a blond beer with a slice of orange in it , made by the Brewer  http://www.lechevalblanc.ca ; the other persons in my party took the Boudin blanc plate, served with Greek chips and hunter sauce.  Verdict for this meal, it’s was a success all the way!

Good to know, the place is very clean, well maintained, we have the possibility to eat on the terrace when the weather is good ,  and for those who always afraid to use the restroom in public places , well even the restroom are impeccable !

Would I recommend this establishment….Of course I am, to anyone, even children will find something good to eat.

Next time , I’ll go for dinner !

 

Value 5*

Service 4*

Location 3* (might be difficult to find some parking on the street)

Cost 4* average

“Not what I was expecting”

LAO INDOCHINE inc,

Epicerie, Restaurant, salle de Degustation

Cuisine: thailandaise & Laotienne

538 Avenue des Oblats Québec, QC G1N

(418) 524-3955

I tried that establishment on June 1 2012, while I was helping someone to move; from what I’ve heard it’s was the Jewell on top of the crown ( the best hidden secret ) in Quebec City.

The Location is not visible to any outsiders visitors, you have to know where it is , it’s not in a popular area, you will have to use your GPS or use a map, their are a few parking spot available on the street. Inside of the establishment, you will discover a very nice grocery story, specialized in Asian food, they have a lots of variety and the price is very good if you compare to similar stores. On the left side of the Grocery store, you have the restaurant entrance, I recommend that you telephone before showing-up, because they are not open regularly.

Fist impressions: Just a few table, very old furniture,  when it’s dinner time it’s packed with customers, ordering and receiving food is in the average.

The Food: Spring rolls ….are excellent;Pad Tai ..OK; Veggies ….too cooked; presentation of the food for take-out …mediocre , the soup bowl opened during transportation and everything was wet ( I don’t believe they are equipped for take-out order, they don’t even have spoons) ; General Tao… the sauce was so much liquid that it look like a soup, and they’ve placed the Chicken Balls ( to put in the General Tao’s plate), we all soak and wet after the catastrophe with the soup. So , in resume …. it was not was I was expecting for and a huge deception and waist of money.

Service 2*

Presentation 1*

Value 2*

Tips: call before to see if they are open, consider eating there,

If asked , I would not recommend it !