613274 Sun Apr 19 16:13:37 -0700 2009 1 22 Quebec (including Montreal) 0 4609647 Well, the APdC managed to surprised me again! I called for an early dinner; they had only one place at the "second" bar, I hesitated about 2 sec. and went with it; and it turned out to be really fun, albeit less existing than be sitting right in front of the kitchen, but was fun because close to the waiting staff; and my position was perfect for people watching. Sitting down, looking at the menu, not really inspired, one side of me wanted to eat light (yeah right, eat light @ APdC!) and my other side wanted to just do "it". So, got a nice glass of Sancerre and a couple of Cromesqui while waiting for a description of the day's specials; not a classical wine-food pairing, but it worked. With a second glass of Sancerre, I got one of the day's special, some scallops in a light "asian-ish" preparation, slightly marinated, with a small dollop of flavoured mayo, and some green peas (of some sorts). It was the kind of dish that would have had it's place at a restaurant like "Jun-I" but was done @ APdC, and it was perfect, perfectly prepared, and presented. The constrast of that plate with what APdC usually offer is what makes this restaurant always exciting, while we tend associate big, large and over-the-top food from Picard; he can create some different things to please a wide variety of clients and tastes. For the main, I decided to be a bit more "meaty"; I got the Bison tartare with some fries, a selection a lot more classical, but not necessarily classic APdC (no foie gras!) menu selection (aka the tourist selection). The tartare was excellent, the meat perfect, the seasoning well balanced, not spicy (I don't like that in tartare); the fries were well cooked, crispy and not too salty, which is a rare feat! With that, a nice glass of Bourgueil that went very well with it. Finished the meal with the poached pear and vanilla ice cream, I always get that dessert, it's a good light end to a meal, and I'm not a huge sweets person (I'm sweet, but not into sweets, and not huge either). With that, I tasted my first japanese whisky, of all places !! it was sitting on the self right in front of me, and could'nt resist myself; a sweet and smooth whisky, quite good (and it's available at the SAQ!). All in all, another very good experience at APdC, left the restaurant not too full, and happy. The food was excellent, the service attentive and professional as always; even for the mohawk haired waitress !! I'm certain it freaked out a couple of japanese tourists there last night!! Sun Apr 19 16:13:37 -0700 2009 11828 Maximilien 1 4615393 I'm impressed you took the time to photograph the food before eating it. Thanks for a great review. Tue Apr 21 12:05:01 -0700 2009 4609647 11969 Plateaumaman