Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne is a delightful eatery adorned with 1950s-inspired decor that exudes a distinct Québécois influence. The extensive menu and ingenious use of space provide a comprehensive dining experience worth indulging in. Upon entering, the warm and affable ambiance immediately takes hold. The proprietors’ passion for their craft and patrons is palpable in the cozy establishment, where neighborhood close-knit relationships have been meticulously fostered over the course of four decades.
Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne has entrenched itself as a pivotal part of the community. It’s right across the street from Sacré Cœur hospital. It transcends the mere purpose of being a dining spot and has evolved into a central gathering place where locals come together to eat and enjoy the ambiance. The restaurant’s seamless assimilation into the neighborhood attests to Paulo and Suzanne’s steadfast dedication and the timeless appeal of their establishment.
The primary reason behind my visit was to experience the renowned burger that has earned them accolades during Le Burger Week. “Le Colosse” Burger is truly exceptional, setting itself apart from the rest. This generously topped burger has the capacity to satisfy your appetite like none other. You might be wondering, what is it that makes this burger stand out from the crowd?
Le Burger Week, presented exclusively through DoorDash, is marking its 12th year of festivities from September 1 to September 14, 2023. This event encompasses 1,000 local restaurants from coast to coast across the nation.
Thierry Rassam and Na’eem Adam kickstarted this event 12 years ago, as well as La Poutine and La Pizza Weeks. The two businessmen have unveiled an interactive gamified experience that allows participants to rack up points (called YUMS) and redeem them for burgers throughout the event. Le Burger Week participants who are partaking in the “Hambur-games” will have the option to donate $1 to one of three charities in their area when buying points or transactions for YUMs Centre Philou (Montreal), Moisson Québec (Quebec City), and the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation (Winnipeg).
I sampled the savory Le Colosse Burger at Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne in Cartierville. It features 100% Angus beef, savory cheese, tender Philly steak, spicy jalapenos, crispy pickles, fiery hot peppers, crunchy cool sour cream and chive chips on a soft brioche bun. To add to the indulgent experience, the burger is paired with their ingeniously crafted homemade southwestern sauce. This burger is not for the faint of heart, as it is quite substantial in size.
I had the delightful opportunity to observe the head chef, Paul, skillfully craft this delectable burger with unwavering dedication as he catered to the bustling Sunday brunch crowd. According to Alexia, the daughter of the owner, Paul is not just a member of the staff; he’s considered family and is truly the lifeblood of the establishment. I witnessed a true “casse-croûte” maestro of the culinary craft in action.
When one dives into the world of hamburgers, it’s undeniable that the fundamental ingredients remain largely consistent across the board. Invariably, you’ll encounter the main ingredients such as minced meat, onions, tomatoes, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and, of course, the all-important sauce. Many will proclaim that the true magic lies in the sauce, but I’d like to propose an alternative perspective – one that revolves around a different, yet equally vital element: LOVE. I could see that love in Paul’s eyes and smile when it came to his food.
This love, this devotion, infuses the hamburger with an essence that transcends the sum of its parts. It’s an invisible ingredient, an unspoken commitment to excellence, and a genuine desire to create something extraordinary. When you bite into a burger crafted with love, you’re not just tasting food; you’re experiencing the chef’s dedication to their craft.
Paul meticulously grilled the meat to perfection, crafting a patty that’s not just cooked but cared for with an artist’s touch. Imagine the dedication it takes to finely chop the onions and tomatoes to achieve that ideal balance of flavors and textures. Think about the thoughtfulness behind choosing the freshest lettuce and the most delectable pickles to elevate the burger to a sublime level. And yes, even the sauce, prepared with a blend of secret ingredients, becomes a work of culinary art in the hands of a passionate chef like Paul.
As I relished the expertly cooked burger, my teeth crunched through the crispy-seared exterior, unleashing a savory explosion of flavor. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill juice; it’s a luscious elixir brimming with the essence of the meat. It’s a marriage of the meat’s inherent juices, meticulously elevated by the ingenious seasoning and cooking techniques.
The juiciness isn’t just about moisture; it’s also about the way it enhances the overall texture of the burger. It prevents the meat from being dry or overly chewy, ensuring that each bite is tender and easy to savor. The contrast between the succulent meat and the other components of the burger, like the crisp lettuce, the crunch of pickles, and the creaminess of the sauce, adds to the overall sensory experience. The next time you savor a burger that leaves you speechless, remember that it’s not just about what’s in it; it’s about the heart and soul that went into its creation, truly making it a labor of love.
Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne are well-known for their restaurant which boasts a diverse menu, with one standout being their exceptional poutines. Their breakfast menu is the perfect way to start your day with comfort food that is freshly prepared. With over 10 different types of poutines, I first discovered their savory dishes during my college days and have rarely found anything comparable elsewhere.
If you haven’t tried the authentic Québécois casse-croûte dining experience in Montreal, you must visit Restaurant Paulo et Suzanne. It is located at 5501 Boul Gouin O, Montréal. You can either dine in or take out. Call 514-336-5561 to place your orders.