Passé Composé: Back to Where It All Began
More than ten years later, one of the best breakfast spots in the city is opening a second location right where it first began, on the Plateau. The new Passé Composé has taken over the former Mlle Rosa space, a location already familiar to neighbourhood regulars, now redesigned to welcome one of Montréal’s most popular brunch destinations. The project is now under the direction of the Sandhu Family, the team behind India Rosa.
On the plate, the experience lives up to the restaurant’s reputation. The dishes are very good, flavour-packed, and served in generous portions. The standout classic: poached eggs served on brioche with caramelized onion compote, seared foie gras, and foie gras sauce — a must for indulgent brunch lovers. The brunch sandwiches and grilled cheeses are hearty and well executed, perfect for a more substantial meal. For those with a sweet tooth, the French toast, crêpes, and waffles round out the meal with comforting yet inventive touches. There’s a clear intention to deliver a bold, unapologetically indulgent brunch — no half measures here. The menu offers enough variety to satisfy both loyal regulars and first-time visitors. The same philosophy applies to the drinks: rich, thoughtfully crafted, and varied enough to feel like true accompaniments rather than simple add-ons.
In terms of budget, Passé Composé isn’t the cheapest option in the neighbourhood (most plates are just over $30), but the quality-to-portion ratio and overall experience justify the price — especially for a more refined brunch outing. It’s not your everyday neighbourhood breakfast spot, but it’s an excellent choice for special occasions or when you feel like treating yourself.
The dining room at this new location is more intimate than its big sister. It works just as well for a cozy tête-à-tête as it does for a relaxed brunch with friends. The atmosphere is calm, with a subtle touch of chic without ever feeling stuffy.
The service also deserves a mention. Professional, attentive, and efficient, it clearly enhances the overall experience. You can feel the team’s commitment to this return to the Plateau, reflected in both the warm welcome and the attentive table service.
The Plateau location is open seven days a week, Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
In short, a successful comeback, still a solid brunch address, and a reliable option for anyone seeking a truly indulgent morning experience. Enjoy!
Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Passé Composé
