The holidays are just around the corner. Why not use this time to try something new? In my last column for 2023, I'll introduce you to three restaurants that have opened in the last few weeks. To try out with friends or family!
The kingdom of surf'n'turf
The Blanchette Morency Group, which has dozens of restaurants in the region (Au Petit Chalet, Shaker, Sushi X, Tartar and Poké), has just added a new mainstay to its range with Steak Avenue. “We always said to ourselves that the ultimate is a steakhouse. In our catering offer, it would be the little jewel of our collection,” explains Pierre-Antoine Morency, co-owner of Vincent Blanchette.
The two co-owners saw their project come to fruition faster than expected when Lebourgneuf's Houston closed its doors in mid-August. They bought the company and quickly worked on a new concept. Open since the beginning of the month, the restaurant focuses on high-quality grilled meat, of course, but also on seafood, which is beautifully presented in a clearly visible ice bar in the middle of the restaurant.
The seafood bar on ice. Photo provided by Steak Avenue.
“It is a key element of the concept. We're reaching another clientele who may want less steak than the other people at their table,” adds Mr. Morency, who is already thinking about opening more branches, particularly in Old Quebec.
I really liked the freshness of the seafood and the impeccable preparation of the New York steak I chose. The Yukon Gold mash with a side of roasted garlic tempted me more with its creaminess than the fries, which lacked flavor.
The quality of the New York steak was impeccable. Photo Marianne White
To explore with friends or work colleagues.
5700, Boul. Galleries
Open every evening and lunch during the week (except December 24-25 and December 1).um January)
Bossini makes his appearance
The Portofino in Sainte-Foy has just changed its identity to Bossini. It was the Blanchette Morency Group that decided to give this brand a makeover to differentiate it from its cousin in Old Quebec.
“The Portofino Sainte-Foy has existed for ten years and we wanted to give it a touch of renewal,” says Pierre-Antoine Morency.
A dish made from Arabiata pasta. Photo from Bossini Facebook
The menu remains similar with its Italian classics (pasta, pizza, tartare), but oysters are now offered year-round, as is fresh lobster from the aquarium. Lunch will also be available soon, as well as a private lounge in the basement to accommodate children. “We want to diversify our offerings to reach families and young people a little more,” says the boss, who wants to turn it into a new chain.
965 Church Street
Open every evening (except December 24th-25th and December 1st).um January)
The new king of pizza
The chef of the Tonino restaurant told me in September that he was working on a new gastronomic project. Now it's done! Anthony Travaglini works passionately in the kitchen of his new brand Tonino Pizza & Gastronomica. Neapolitan pizzas made from high-quality ingredients are simply exceptional.
A pizza from Tonino. Photo from Tonino Pizza & Gastronomica Facebook
This could quickly become your favorite pizza place, I warned you! In addition to some seating, the counter also offers a take-away or delivery service. A small food area also offers carefully selected, fine Italian products.
1971, Rue de Bergerville
Open Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.