Disclaimer: This meal was comped.
I find myself repeating the phrase "international flair" a lot in my reviews of late; as more and more eateries incorporate Asian/Mediterranean/Latin touches into "white people" food. What was once exclusive to inventive fusion restaurants has found its way into the fast casual sector.
Today's lunch invitation to sample Frais & Fresh is a case in point; the prêt-à-manger counter suggests a healthy, "ethnic" twist on staples such as soups, salads and sandwiches.
The ten-month-old locale occupies a prime snug spot along Old Montreal's McGill Street, just above Rue de la Commune. The sleek, botanically-inspired interior holds just enough space to fit a picnic table without feeling too tight. We weren't expecting much of a crowd at one in the afternoon, but a steady flow of takeout customers kept things busy.
Frais & Fresh's menu reads like a who's who of superfoods boosted by intercontinental sprinklings. Grains, legumes, veggies and fruits – without discounting meat and seafood – are enhanced with the likes of tandoori yogurt, harissa and chipotle. Colors are bright, flavours bold, portions humongous; and those bowls are just gorgeous!
"kale, romaine lettuce, roasted green & red onions, lentils, baked pita chips"
tagged: FEAST FOR THE EYES
In addition to the Old Montreal location, Frais & Fresh can be delivered via all the major channels – Foodora, Uber Eats and Just Eat. A second location in Place Montreal Trust has also just seen the light of day.
With its triple F threat of fresh, flavorful and filling, the nascent concept is a sober reminder that healthy food need not be animal free and tasteless.
Price per person: $17.49
Montreal restaurant and bar reviews brought to you by two regular guys who like to eat and drink. We will go anywhere and we will say it like it is.