I rarely go into Montreal for dinner on a Saturday evening, even less so on René Levesque boulevard.

I was hearing favourable comments about a Bistro style restaurant that has been open only a few months, I decided to make an exception and called to make a reservation. My guest and I went early to have a drink at the bar. When we arrived Guy Aubry one of the two owners greeted us with a hearty welcome and made us feel like his loyal customers. He introduced us to the bartender and we quickly realized she had discovered the mysteries of making a great martini. We were shown to our table on a terrace attractively decorated with greenery. We were surprised when the wine sommelier or wine Stewart suggested a red wine, although he knew I had chosen a seafood pasta as a main course. He suggested a Chianti to accompany my sea food pasta.

My guest and I shared an entree of chicken liver, mushrooms and Swiss shard with a cream of garlic blossoms served on an open ravioli. It was delicious. My main course, seafood papardelles were fresh, as was the generous serving of fish and seafood, salmon, scallops and shrimps that were part of my meal. The Chianti complemented perfectly the light tomato garnish.My guest chose a charcoal broiled beef brisket served with fries and a house salad with a light citrus vinaigrette. The meat was done to perfection, the fries hot and crispy.We shared the dessert, a chocolate caramel and whisky torte that was light and tasty. Often a perfect meal is spoiled by a mediocre filter or espresso coffee. This did not happen at the Bistro boulevard elegant. The coffee was smooth and hot and so delicious that I indulged myself and had a second.

The terrace was alive with 25 to 40 years of age customers. It did not seem to bother anyone that the terrace was so close to the street. They were too busy discussing their work week with Mr Aubry. The owners experience as a restaurateur is apparent in the professionalism and ease of the personnel. Nothing is left to chance. It is hard to believe that the establishment opened only in the spring of 2011. You can also tell that an experienced chef is in the kitchen. Louis Phillipe Daoust has been there since the opening. A happy hour, five to seven ,is offered during the week, perfect if you work downtown. Parking is available at the back for $10. Just mention you are dining at the Bistro.

Price:$150 for 2. Including aperitifs, entrees, main courses, deserts and coffee.

We will surely return!

Le Bistro Boulevard Elegant

1121 Anderson Montreal,Quebec

514-861-7076

www.leboulevardbistro.com