1. Overview of Barroco
Old and new worlds collide at Barroco, a trendy restaurant star in one of North America’s most competitive foodie markets since its 2008 debut.
2. Location and Ambiance
Located on cobblestoned St. Paul Ouest Street in Old Montreal, Barroco is lively, popular, and upscale with a supperclub vibe, featuring a small dining room inside a building dating back to the turn of the nineteenth century. The decor blends exposed wood beams and 200-year-old stone walls with eccentric accents, creating a unique atmosphere.
3. Commitment to Hospitality
Barroco demonstrates a commitment to excellent hospitality through a high staff to patron ratio. Unlike local restaurants with more seating and fewer staff, Barroco prioritizes customer service, ensuring a more attentive dining experience.
4. Culinary Delights: Specialties
Barroco Specialties: Paella and Short Ribs
The menu at Barroco features a combination of French, Spanish, and Italian inspirations, including homemade pasta and some of the city’s best paella. Ingredients are of exceptional quality, ranging from foie gras to seasonal truffles. The presentation embraces the concept of “barroco,” which signifies imperfect beauty—characteristic of the locale’s charm.
5. Dining Experience at the Bar
Eat at the Bar
The restaurant bar at Barroco is a sought-after highlight, drawing regulars who enjoy the lively atmosphere curated by the charismatic bartenders. The cocktail menu boasts old-school speakeasy vibes, featuring inventive drinks like the Maple Old Fashioned and the Hemingway Daquiri, which reflects the locale’s creative mixology.
6. Conclusion: Ideal for Various Occasions
Barroco is a best bet for a romantic dinner, a key business gathering, a night out with friends, or a genuine taste of Montreal’s food scene. Anticipate spending around $250 for two, including appetizers and wine. The crowd ranges from young and hip to sophisticated and senior, with a dress code that varies from smart casual to semi-formal.
7. Barroco’s Culinary Highlights
Barroco’s Paella
One of Barroco’s specialties is its paella, a classic Valencian rice dish made with seafood, chorizo, and chicken. The version served at Barroco includes squid, shrimp, scallop, chorizo, and morcilla, a Spanish-style blood sausage.
Inside Barroco’s Dining Room
The small, inviting dining room at Barroco features a bar with speakeasy accents, embodying charm that attracts everyone, from tourists to locals and even celebrities. The ambiance complements the food, making it a top destination in Montreal.
Barroco Oysters
Barroco offers oysters as appetizers alongside a diverse selection of charcuterie, assorted cheeses, and foie gras, with a menu that typically adapts to seasonal ingredients.