Molenne : A New Exceptional Montreal Brasserie

Molenne is a Montreal brasserie created for every occasion: a drink with friends, a light meal, a birthday celebration, a morning coffee, a business lunch, or more festive events with champagne and caviar. The establishment aims to be open 7 days a week, day and night, with lunch service offered 5 days a week.

A Dream Team

The founders of Molenne bring over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry. After helping launch several establishments for others, they decided it was time to create their own space—a place that reflects their vision and passion. All Montreal natives, they share a deep love for the local culinary scene, especially seafood.

The team of owner-founders includes Pierre-Olivier Besner (formerly of Majestique), François Séguin-Letendre (formerly of Majestique and founder of Soif and Daily in Shanghai), Alexandre Hallé-Quinlan (formerly of Majestique and founder of Lacou in the Caribbean), chef Louis-Joseph Rochefort (formerly of Bouillon Bilk, Le Serpent, and others, with a stint at Attica in Australia), Gia Bach Nguyen (formerly of Gia), who curates the cocktail menu, and Miro Ramirez (formerly of Majestique), who oversees the wine list.

This is the team’s first joint venture in Montreal—a coming together of eclectic talents to launch this exciting new project.

Molenne on Boulevard St-Laurent

The restaurant is located in the former Café Mei on St-Laurent Boulevard—a space rich with history and character. This central location sits at the crossroads of three vibrant neighborhoods, a key passage for many Montrealers. The building was once a horse hay depot and part of Montreal’s old racetrack. This equestrian past is subtly reflected in the design and atmosphere, blending historical homage with modernity while staying true to the neighborhood’s spirit.

The design and construction of the restaurant were handled by François and Pierre-Olivier through their new Atelier Séguin Besner. They personally designed the space—except for the plumbing and electrical work. The restaurant features a charming round bar at the entrance, a cozy 30-seat front section, a middle area for waiting or enjoying a festive aperitif, and a 20-seat section just in front of the open kitchen. The kitchen is now surrounded by glass, with a dedicated cold station for raw dishes—a house specialty. Several elements from old establishments were salvaged, such as the cabinets from Café Mei, banquettes from the TNM restaurant, and plaques from an old chimney, giving the space a blend of history and modern flair.

The Menu

Molenne’s menu evolves with the seasons, highlighting local ingredients with roots in French traditions adapted to contemporary tastes. It includes a seafood bar, appetizers, vegetables, meats, and sharing plates. The seafood, sourced primarily from Havre-Saint-Pierre, ensures exceptional freshness and quality.

Some standout dishes include the duck liver tartlet, razor clam salad, Nantes carrots and braised cabbage, black cod, and the impressive tourtière ($90 but truly delicious). The dishes are well-crafted, the sauces particularly excellent, and the menu is served in a warm, inviting ambiance. The place already feels established, despite its recent opening—though you might want to come early if you hope to have a quieter conversation.

To Drink

At Molenne, the food is excellent, but the drinks are truly the star! Gia Nguyen leads the cocktail program with a modern, minimalist approach, offering delightful concoctions. The focus is on simple, natural ingredients for elegant and well-balanced creations. The menu features 12 cocktails, including 4 on tap—favorites include the 50-50 Martini and the martini mocktail.

Miro Ramirez curates the wine list. The restaurant has invested in cellar acquisitions, offering a refined and extensive selection, including rare bottles from long-standing partner agencies. Notably, several bottles are priced between $50-$70, a rarity among both new and established restaurants in the city.

Why Visit Molenne?

The owners are thrilled to finally open the doors to this long-anticipated project. After hosting a few pop-up events with Banquet St-Laurent last winter, the restaurant has come to life—and it already feels like it’s been part of the neighborhood for some time. You can stop by for a casual drink or celebrate a special occasion with an impressive seafood platter.

Their goal was to create a restaurant that embodies Montreal in all its richness and diversity, blending respect for the past with conviviality and modernity.

Come here for the delicious food, fun atmosphere, excellent cocktails and wine, and (already) professional service. Enjoy discovering this new spot that’s sure to become a Montreal classic!