Babacool

Babacool boasts the heritage of stunning architecture, the vibe of eclectic energy, and the flavours of the Aegean Sea. For a new restaurant in Montreal, it has instantly become a classic, must-go, hot spot that takes you on a trip to Greece, Lebanon, Israel and Morocco all in one.

A laidback, casual atmosphere, Babacool is the newest resto added to the roster of Montreal’s great restauranteurs Marco Benattar (from Flyjin and Jatoba) and Charles Manceau (from Groupe Venice). An oasis in the heart of Old Montreal, these creative entrepreneurs truly made something magical tucked away in the old Notre-Dame Church.

The menu is inspired by the Mediterranean, and as somewhat of a self-proclaimed connoisseur of that food, I will say with absolute certainty that fattouche and Greek salads hit it out of the park. The halloumi cheese and grilled shrimp are moutwatering, and the lamb kefta and other protein dishes are a party in my mouth (lol, for real though, so many flavours!).

A fusion of modern and traditional dishes inspired to transport you to the sea, Chef John Zoumis truly brings out the natural wonders of these nostalgic dishes with his special touch. Authentic Moroccan cigars that are so hard to find anywhere other than your grandma’s kitchen, and a lentil soup that is to die for, I just can’t wait to grab some girlfriends and order a little bit of everything (yes, everything!) and enjoy a night out on the town, natural wines in tow.

I’m not normally to sing about dessert – I don’t really have a sweet tooth, but I have to say that they were each one better than the other. Exquisite flavours that just melted in your mouth. I couldn’t stop at one bite… cut to 3 desserts later!

Babacool is open for dinner but if we scream loud enough, hopefully they’ll open for lunch in the fall!

Photography by Patricia Brochu