Being a fan of the restaurant scene in Montreal, you become very aware of the wonderful chefs that do great work in our city. When I hear about new restaurant openings through social media and online, most of the time I have heard about the chef in charge and where they have been before. You create an expectation for yourself based on what you know from their previous work. Every once in a while though, a place pops up surprisingly on scene without any foreshadowing and makes a mark. In less than a year, Hopkins would definitely make that list.
Since opening last summer, Hopkins has received great reviews across the board for Chef Liam Hopkins’ cuisine. They also received great marks for their brunch service so I made my way over on a Sunday morning with my sister for another episode of brother sister brunch.
Located in Monkland Village – a part of town that I have generally ignored for no obvious reason, Hopkins is quite a looker. The space has a clear modern chic style. Seating is either caramel-coloured chairs or pearl grey banquettes. The back of the room’s focal point is a gorgeous mirror-backed bar covered in orange candles. Lighting is provided by brass chandeliers but the tall windows in the front provided tons of natural light for a brunch service. Add some great music with very friendly and attentive wait staff – even when they say upfront that they are new – and Hopkins definitely plays the part of a fine dining establishment.
Even though it was 11am on a Sunday, I still went with a cocktail because it’s brunch and it’s socially acceptable to have a drink as a result… right? Anyway, I went one of their seasonal cocktails, the Tennessee Sour – Gentlemen Jack, dried peach syrup, fresh lemon juice, egg white, bitters and nutmeg. Nicely balanced – a touch of smokiness from the Jack but very fresh and creamy. Great start.
The brunch menu is not huge but everything was quite interesting – it took much longer for both of us to decide what to pick! Regardless you are presented at your arrival with a plate of fruits and jam with fresh brioche bread. My sister went with the house smoked salmon served on ficelle served with crème fraîche, pickled red onion, avocado, radish, niçoise and split tomato vinaigrette. Beautiful presentation and very good to boot. The smoked salmon had a great texture and very flavourful. The rest of the dish was very fresh and light.
I went with the breakfast sandwich – a buttermilk biscuit with egg, cheddar, house Beaurivage bacon and crispy polenta hash on the side. This sandwich was insane – first I love a good buttermilk biscuit and this one was excellent. Combination of egg, cheese and bacon is always a good combo but when the house bacon is thick cut… eve better. The side of polenta hash was very interesting and pretty good – the little bites of polenta were crunchy on the outside but tender inside. A great dish all around.
Hopkins nailed it from start to end – great decor, great service and excellent food. NDG is not a regular location for me food wise but Hopkins has ensured that I need to come back more often….. now to try dinner!
Cheers!
Hopkins
5626 Monkland Avenue
514 379 1275
Ramblings from the Complex Mind of a 30 Something 