It’s undeniable that The Triple Crown Dinette has created a tangible “buzz” in Montreal’s Little Italy. The dinette on the corner of Clark and St.Zotique has swiftly become a staple of the local foodscape. They owe their quick start to a unique picnic service. During the summer months Triple Crown sells pre-packed picnic baskets. They come complete with everything necessary for an old style fifties picnic. This isn’t the first time we’ve had a picnic… Yet, the Triple Crown experience feels somewhat revolutionary.
THE PLACE
The inside of Triple Crown is cozy and thrifty. The interior of the restaurant resembles an old style take out counter from the deep south. In the winter months (when picnicking is a dangerous endeavor) it can be tricky to grab a seat. Restaurant goers should aim to arrive before the dinner rush or it may take a while to snag a barstool. At first glance one might ask “Why are we sitting in such close proximity?” or “Couldn’t we have just gone to Aux Vivres?” But it’s not until you taste their homestyle love grub that it all becomes clear… This dinette cooks killer food.
(Photo by Vincenzo D’Alto/Montreal Gazette)
THE PLATE
The Triple Crown Dinette serves up southern favorites that truly taste homemade. The most popular item on the menu is “Meat and Three’s.”True to it’s namesake you get the option of either fried chicken, smoked brisket or pulled pork, plus the choice of three sides. The sides menu offers a very wide range to choose from, including the ever popular macaroni and cheese, hush puppies, collard greens and sweet potatoes. A notable item is the Mac’n’Cheese. It is quite seriously one of the best variations I’ve ever tasted. The noodles are thick yet cooked al dente. They are covered by a savoury home made cheese sauce and topped with a sweet and salty crumble. The entire dish is the perfect combination of comfort and sin. The same goes for the fried chicken, which is also cooked and seasoned to perfection. The weekly specials at the Triple Crown also deserve an honorable mention! Chef Colin Parry keeps his menu looking fresh by continually changing it up every week.
(Photo by Marissa Cristiano)
THE PRICE
Going to eat at triple crown won’t put a hole in your pocket. Entree’s are priced at around 11-16 dollars each and servings are pretty hefty. The weekly specials can run a bit over but it’s forgivable due to the use of seasonal ingredients.
The food at Triple Crown is not necessarily fancy or modern but what it lacks in uniqueness it makes up for in quality. The food is well done, the staff friendly and the feeling in my stomach… Well I’m feeling satisfied. Delivering all the joys of comfort food at quite a comforting price.
6704 Clark St.
Phone: 514-272-2617
Licensed: YES
Credit/Debit/Cash? – All Accepted
Open: Thursdays to Tuesdays 11 am – 9 pm / Closed on Wednesdays
Prices: Sandwiches 7–10, mains meals 11–16, sides and desserts 3–6
Check out more from Madeleine Lahaie @ www.MadeleineLahaie.com
