Late-night eatery : the legendary Nouveau Palais experiences a savoury renewal

While the term ‘comfort food’ applies to a whole gamut of culinary treats, Nouveau Palais is perhaps the epicenter of all things comforting. With a new roster of charming folks behind the counter and in the kitchen, the mythic Mile-End institution serves up affordable delectables in a casual atmosphere of great tunes and faux-wood paneling as far as the eye can see. Rich mac’n’cheese, a stunning combo of eggplant with two types of mushrooms and goat cheese, hunter’s chicken and pumpkin pie: just a few of the goodies they’ve got cooking. What more could a foodie ask for? After some late night partying, you may just hunker down in one of the booths and never want to leave. I spoke with co-owner Bernie Bankrupt about the continual metamorphosis of Nouveau Palais.

Why did you decide to keep the name Nouveau Palais, even though the menu is completely different?

Good question. This place has been around for eighty years under various forms of the same name (it changed from New Palace to Nouveau Palais for Bill 101), but with many different menus and owners. I think we’re just another spot along the continuum.

Does the innovative menu come from the chef, the management, or is it a shared process?

The menu definitely comes from the chef, Gita Seaton, and the overall direction of the place is a combined vision.

When I visited the restaurant with some friends, we noticed an amazing taxidermy fox that kept watch over everyone. What’s the story there?

It was a gift from the butchers at Chez Vito to wish us well!

In general, what’s your aim for this resto?
A fun dining spot with quality grub and a friendly neighbourhood bar.

Nouveau Palais | 281, Bernard O. | Outremont Metro