Terrasse Carla provides a superb summer patio dining experience
The summer terrasse season in Montreal is well underway. Readers are well aware that I like nothing more than sitting in the great outdoors while enjoying a nice meal. My first patio venture of 2024 was at Terrasse Carla, located on the rooftop of the Hampton Inn/Homewood Suites at the corner of Viger and St. Laurent Blvd. right next to Chinatown. This was a new discovery for me.
The hip 7,000 square foot space is back for a third season, complete with festive evenings and cultural experiences planned throughout the summer. Wednesdays will be reserved for latin rhythm. Meanwhile, once a month on a Sunday (2 to 11pm), there will be an event paying tribute to different festive destinations such as Miami, Cannes, Ibiza, St Tropez and Mykonos. Thursday happy hours offer everyone a chance to relax and socialize after a long day’s work.
New this summer is a brunch menu that will be served every Saturday and Sunday from June through July and August.
I was invited to a special VIP mixer event on a Thursday evening where influencers got to try some drinks and enjoy a nice array of hors d’oeuvres. There was a really nice vibe that night and it was fun to connect with other journalists and some stylists.
I want to thank super culinary communications guru Marie-Annick Boisvert and the Terrasse Carla management team of Roman and Margaux for having me back a few nights later where I was able to experience the full dining menu. It was a gorgeous Saturday night and the view from my table was picturesque.
I started off with a drink from the bar, a spritz tropical – St. Germain, limoncello, mango, lime and prosecco. For appetizers I ordered six delectable oysters which were an indulgence for the senses. Arriving on a bed of crushed ice, each shell held a treasure of oceanic delight. Their glistening, pearlescent shells hinted at the succulent treasures within. With a delicate aroma of the sea, they promised a symphony of flavors. Upon the first taste, my palate was greeted by a briny rush, followed by a subtle sweetness that danced across my tongue. Each bite was a journey into the depths of culinary bliss, leaving a lingering sensation of pure satisfaction.
And how I love a Burrata Salad! The one here was prepared impeccably headlined of course by the burrata, a jewel of Italian cuisine and a creamy indulgence that captivates both the eye and the palate. It was accompanied by heirloom tomatoes, herb mayonnaise and spicy oil. Each bite was a revelation, a harmonious blend of milky sweetness and subtle tang, leaving an unforgettable impression that lingered long after the last taste.
For the main course I chose the steak frites, a hanger steak medium rare with some very crispy fries. Each slice boasted a perfect balance of tender meat and rich marbling, presenting a symphony of flavors with every bite.
There is one item on the dessert menu, an almond cake with strawberries, rhubarb and mint. The almond is puréed and there are some cookies included as well.
Terrasse Carla is located on the Sixth floor of the hotel at 985 Boulevard Saint-Laurent. It is open seven days a week from 5 pm to 11 pm and Saturday and Sunday mornings for brunch through August. Log on to www.terrassecarla.com or e-mail Margaux at info@terrassecarla.com to book an event or a large group. Indoor parking is available on site.
