Héritaj: Indo-French cuisine by Arnaud Glay

The Pasté Compound brunches are officially back and are being held in a brand new establishment in Old Montreal, Héritaj. Fruit of the collaboration between the Sandhu family (India Rosa, M^she Rosa, Sandhu) and chef Arnaud Glay, the restaurant combines two identities: brunches, during the day, and Indo-French cuisine, in the evening.

We find almost the same brunch menu at Passé compound, an institution in the Ville-Marie district that Arnaud Glay decided to close last January. The poached eggs, including those with foie gras, and the French toast with its panko crust will delight regulars. A few Indian influences are found here and there, a masala poached egg and a chai tea cocktail are proof of this. Customers can also come in to sip a coffee, or take it to go with sandwiches, smoothies and frozen sin gelatos.

Chef Arnaud Glay has already been collaborating for several years with the Sandhu family, more particularly sons Hapi and Goppy, for brunches at India Rosa. It therefore stood to reason that the project would be entrusted to the chef, who also takes care of the menu in the evening. “The concept of Héritaj is to mix the two cultures, French and Indian, and to create something quite unique,” ​​enthuses Arnaud Glay. The evening dishes highlight certain classics of French cuisine, with North American influences, which combine with the heat of Indian sauces and spices.

The pan-fried veal chop, with its candied garlic and cashew nut crust, is served with a creamy butter sauce. The scallops as a starter are based on a korma sauce, and the rack of Quebec lamb is accompanied by roasted rabioles with biryani spices. “It’s about creating warm, hearty dishes with a touch of finesse too,” explains Chef Glay.

The cocktails at Héritaj, refined, but less flashy than those at India Rosa, are carefully crafted by mixologist Allan Steven Pichardo. A few Indian touches brighten up the alcoholic creations, the French Indian Connection (a favorite) combines Amrut cognac, amaretto and saffron oil. The privately imported wine list, which remains evolving, highlights French vineyards.

Chairs with rounded curves, airy lighting and lush vegetation give Héritaj a refined and enveloping atmosphere. The design of the room, entrusted to Pero Studio, evokes the vibrant energy of India and French elegance. The lights dim even more in the evening in a section of the restaurant that transforms into a speakeasy. We therefore go to Héritaj during the day to (re)taste the famous brunches of Passé compound or to treat ourselves to a festive meal in the evening.

701, rue William, Montreal

Visit the Héritaj website