Do Saint-Roch Like a Local
He’s tried almost every restaurant, knows the music scene like the palm of his hand, and has captured it in detail, inside and out. For all these reasons and more, André-Olivier Lyra is a true Saint-Roch ambassador. The talented photographer and Saint-Roch local, who’s into food, music, and the great outdoors, found it very hard to pick just 6 favourite spots to share in Saint-Roch. And yet, here they are!
Étienne Dionne
1Divine Italian at Battuto
Battuto has a stellar reputation among foodies, and for good reason. The restaurant was named restaurant of the year at the province’s 2022 Laurier awards and André-Olivier couldn’t agree more.
It’s the best Italian restaurant in the city, hands down. It’s friendly and intimate, the food is fantastic, and the service is flawless.
Since choosing from a menu gives him serious FOMO, André-Olivier lets the front-of-house team decide for him. His only stipulation: there needs to be at least one pasta dish on the table. The result never fails to impress!
- Étienne Dionne
2The Best Bites at William J. Walter
Although known for its extensive selection of fresh sausages, William J. Walter also carries a variety of charcuteries and other delectable nibbles as well as a fine selection of local craft beverages.
Whenever I’m having people over for drinks, I make a trip to William J. Walter for saucisson and cider. It’s simple and delicious.
- Étienne Dionne
3Cocktails with Friends at Deux22
Just steps away from L’Impérial Bell, Deux22 keeps the party going until the wee hours with Mexican food and a festive vibe. It’s the perfect place for a bite to eat after a show.
The courtyard in the back is one of the neighbourhood’s best-kept secrets and the bar has a stellar selection of tequilas.
André-Olivier can be found there on many an evening with friends, tequila soda in hand.
- Étienne Dionne
4Shows at L’Impérial Bell
With its eclectic programming of everything from pop to metal and rap to rock, L’Impérial Bell is a big hit with pretty much everyone.
I love music and shows, so this venue is obviously one of my favourite spots in Saint-Roch.
- Étienne Dionne
5A Special Kind of Feast at Kundah Hotel
When André-Olivier is in the mood for something a little more exotic, he heads to Kundah Hotel for Indian-style food made with local ingredients.
There’s nothing else like it in town. The food is so flavourful. Plus, the service is excellent, but the mood is really laid-back and festive.
Our guide likes his Indian spices and isn’t afraid to try new things. “The menu changes often, so I always let the chef decide. I love those spicy dishes!”
- Étienne Dionne
6Japanese tapas at Honō Izakaya
As a big fan of Japanese food and sake, André-Olivier had to include Honō Izakaya on his list—especially since it’s home to one of the city’s best mixologists, Julien Vézina.
The skewers are so tasty. I love the mushroom yakitori and the pork belly yakitori.
He also has a soft spot for the catch-of-the-day sashimi, which is always super fresh.
