There is definately charm on Rachel street: the red brick buildings, proximity to life on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, but most importantly lies within, two of Montreal's must eats for Portuguese delights.
As it was our Saturday cheat day and UFC Conor McGregor fight night, we decided to explore after having read Montreal Blog's post on the Best Montreal Pastel de Nata!
First stop - Pâtisserie du Rosaire.
What lured us was when we read that they have three flavours of natas: original, maple and chocolate.
What impressed me most was the price. 6 natas for $6. You can't beat that. Flaky, creamy goodness makes you ooh and awe with every bite. Melts in your mouth. The maple and chocolate are worth the try, but the original is still the all time fav, with maple as a close second. If you haven't ever been to Pâtisserie du Rosaire, you may have tried their natas at Coco Rico and other nearby establishments. They do have many other pastries that look delightful which we will definately make our way back to try next time.
Next stop - Rotisserie Portugalia
It was my good friend Wael who introduced me to this gem of a place. A small, quaint place, that could be easily overlooked, but once you have tried their Portuguese Chicken, you will definately be back for more. Not only is the food really wonderful, but the team is so genuinely kind and sincere, you can see the stream of regulars entering, as they are being greeted and entertained, while their food cooks over a charcoal grill.
Just know that it does take a good hour for your food, if you call in advance you can get an estimate of when your food will be ready. Usually we call an hour in advance and hope we can wait patiently while our mouths salivate, then head out to pick up for take out. If you live in the downtown core, great news is that they deliver within a 5km radius.
Pick up a fry $3 for the small or $5 for the large. What I like is that they come unsalted which is perfect. The fries remind me of McDs fries which I love. Ask for a side of their secret spicy sauce. And if chicken isn't enough, you can order the chorizo or ribs to amplify the meat lover's experience. I have yet to try the other items on the menu but they seem just as delicious.
And lastly, to wash it down, try Sumol, either in orange or in pineapple. What is nice is that it is real fruit juice in carbonated form and comes in a glass bottle. It's not a twist cap so if you take it to go, make sure the guys open it up for you before heading out, if you are eating on the run.
Bom apetite!