MtlRestoRap

The Grandio Group, once known as Sportscene, has come a long way from the days when it focused almost exclusively on the La Cage Brasserie Sportive chain. A few years ago President and CEO Jean Bédard announced the purchase of Moishes Steakhouse, shutting it down during the pandemic and relaunching the brand at Victoria Square in June of 2023. Around that same time, he added another mainstay, Gibbys Steakhouse in Old Montreal, to the fold.

Sarah is one of the popular servers at Gibbys

Sarah is one of the popular servers at Gibbys

Well, a few months ago we went to the new Moishes and enjoyed a lovely meal on their terrasse. More recently, it was time to experience the iconic Gibbys again in Old Montreal. I am pleased to say that not only have they preserved all of the things I love about this place, but they’ve added some nice items to the menu.

There is seating here for 325 people, spread over two levels (Sauveur can accommodate close to 300). Portions are very large and they do not charge extra for sharing, nor for side orders. For birthdays and special occasions they will provide a cake and photo free of charge. Guillaume Briere, the director of operations for Gibbys and Moishes, said that they wanted to introduce a terrasse in their sprawling courtyard but they ran out of time in terms of the permit process with the city.

We were seated in one of the smaller side rooms and our server started us off with the signature freshly baked bread with butter, along with crunchy dill pickles and then proceeded to review the menu, which has changed under the new ownership, and certainly for the better. We had some drinks and proceeded directly to their newest feature, the seafood tower. It featured eight shrimp, two lobster tails, twelve oysters and an octopus salad. It was indeed a meal unto itself. Everything was absolutely delicious.

For the main course, there was only one choice for me: the rib steak, better known as a Gibbys cut. It was superb as usual. My dining partner chose the Youville rack of lamb, Alberta Lamb, marinated with fine herbs and garlic. For sides we both opted for the Monte Carlo potato, accompanied by fresh asparagus. The Monte Carlo potato is twice baked with bacon, sour cream and chives on the side. You can also have a baked potato or rice pilaf. They also brought some wild mushrooms to the table.

Since we were celebrating a special occasion that night, Sarah brought us the trademark vanilla and peach cake and took our photo with an instant camera. It does not matter how full you might be; that cake melts in your mouth.

The new ownership has poured more than $2 million in kitchen renovations. Meanwhile, the cutlery and tablecloths were changed and new lighting was introduced to each table. While they did add a new item like the seafood platter, Briere said there is intention of changing any of the classic menu items.

Gibbys is located at 298 Place d’Youville in Old  Montreal. For reservations call 514-282-1837. In St. Sauveur you can find the restaurant at 414 Principale St. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 5:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 5 pm. Log on to www.gibbys.com  for more information.

Follow Mike Cohen’s culinary adventures at www.MtlRestoRap.com  He can be reached at [email protected].