The Bottom Line
Pros
- Great for vegetarians and vegans
- Fun and original dishes
- Extremely healthy menu
- Warm and fast service
Cons
- Looks like a food court
- Gets crowded
Description
- Location: 4631 St. Laurent Blvd. (corner of Villeneuve)
- Get there: St. Laurent Metro
- Reservations: (514) 842-3479
Guide Review - You Don't Need to Be Vegan to Crave Aux Vivres
I'm almost vegetarian. I like to blame the "almost" part on some dishes I won't give up including my addiction to poutine and its lardy aftertaste. So when I heard there was a vegan restaurant in Montreal with the guts to serve vegan poutine, I just had to try it myself.Located in the heart of the Plateau on St. Laurent near the corner of Villeneuve, the spartan cafeteria-style decor leaves a certain something to be desired if you're looking for an intimate ambiance. While not the ideal location for a first date, Aux Vivres offsets the decor with positively delicious food.
No, I didn't get to try the much raved about poutine. It's a chef's daily special item and it wasn't listed that day. Instead, I went for the chana sandwich, a chickpea curry wrapped in Indian style chapati bread, and "tonique" juice, an invigorating combination of apple, lemon and ginger that more than made up for my fleeting disappointment.
I'd also recommend the tempeh burger or the living salad made with live sprouts, sea veggies and daikon. Conclude the meal with a piece of divine "uncheesecake" and if that isn't enough, then stock up on some ready made items at Aux Vivres' takeout counter.
