Le Virunga — Restaurant Review
What's the big picture?
A mural-sized image of the shape of Africa is prominently displayed on the back wall, setting a tone for the type of cuisine served at this dinner-only restaurant. Named after the famed national park in the Congo that is home to hundreds of wild mountain gorillas, Le Virunga's pan-African menu is unlike any other experience offered in Montreal, with game meat and native African vegetables.
What's the crowd like?
It was a relaxed crowd that evening, who arrived hoping for a different experience and ready to try new flavors.
What should we be drinking?
Wines are exclusively from South Africa, and the cocktails are inventive with edible flowers adding a touch of exoticism.
Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss.
The mother-daughter team at Le Virunga may have been born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but their worldwide experiences have helped informed the larger regional cuisine of sub-Saharan Africa to give a taste of the African diaspora while blending in local ingredients. Take the mutton, sourced from a Quebec farm, that includes a side of attiéké, a cassava dish from the Ivory Coast. The sweet potato velouté is a memorable dish, thanks to its intense flavors and notable spiciness.
And how did the front-of-house folks treat you?
Could have been faster. It seemed like the restaurant was down to one server, who doubled up as hostess, ambassador, bartender, and busser, and the pace slowed quite a bit. That said, when there was interaction, it was pleasant and each dish and drink were well explained.
What's the real-real on why we're coming here?
For someone who is tired of the usual cuisine and is open to a little adventure. The low lighting begets good conversation, making this a prime spot for a romantic date night.
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