If you think you would enjoy a new `tex-mex` taste experience, The Ice House is the place to go.
Forget about having dinner after 6 pm on Thursdays or Fridays.  All available tables are taken by the young neighbourhood regulars.

This tiny restaurant, which opened its doors last March, is owned by Texas chef Nick Hodge and Nathalie Doucet.

Although you may plan on going during the week, it will not necessarily guarantee you a table.
With the arrival of summer the windows of the newly inaugurated terrasse can be opened.
 
This small restaurant that specializes in tacos and crab cakes is situated on the corner of Saint Dominique and Roy street east.
Parking is a problem, so unless you enjoy driving around in circles, public transportation is recommended.
 
Its style is dictated by the charm of the area.  Wooden tables and brown paper napkin dispensers attached to the walls are part of the decor.
Space is so limited you feel that all these people crowded together know one another.
It creates a very intimate atmosphere.
 
This restaurant where food is served on paper plates is not unique to the area.  However the similarity stops there.
The menu offered is of superior quality.  The tacos are original and brimful with flavour.  When you bite into a crab cake you get the authentic taste of that delicate crab meat.  I also ordered a fresh lobster roll with only a light mayo that was very tasty.  I did find however that $20 for a hot dog bun filled with lobster was a bit expensive.  I did enjoy the lobster roll regardless..............
 
The Ice House features southern style fried cooking.
Popcorn fried shrimp, fried fish and fried chicken tacos rolled in a crust of crushed corn flakes.  I found the crust of the fried chicken a bit bland. A bucket of fried chicken (3 pieces) is served with a side of coleslaw and potatoes.
They have a unique way of serving the chicken.  A piece of wax paper is spread on the table and then the chicken is emptied onto it.
The bland taste of the corn flake crust was not what I expected in a restaurant with a Texan chef.
 
Other items on the menu, oysters, Dr Pepper flavoured ribs and stuffed jalapenos.
Homemade Bourbon or Vodka lemonade was quite popular on the other tables.
 
                                                                      ICE House

                                               51 Roy Street east, Montreal 514-439-6691
 
PRICES: Tacos $8- crab cakes $12, Lobster Rolls $20-vodka lemonade $9, Beer on tap $4
GENRE: Small rustic restaurant, simple and unassuming.  Napkin dispensers attached on the wooden walls. Like being in a restaurant on the coast of Maine.
CLIENTS: The Ice House has become a meeting place for the young people who want to eat well at a moderate price.
SERVICE: Efficient and friendly.