Le Pier 66, a Fishy New Restaurant, Washes Up on Bernard Next Month

Three former employees of the now closed L'Autre Version in Old Montreal are about to open a fish and seafood restaurant in Mile End-Outremont. Le Pier 66, from principals Jessie Lassonde and Pierre Jean, and chef Marc-André Lavergne (Accords, Aszu), is slated for March 1 at 361 Bernard Ouest. The new venture replaces the short-lived Anabel Bar et Vin, which closed quietly after less than two years in business.

Lassonde tells Eater that Pier 66 will keep some of the space's former elements, from a marble bar top to an expansive front window that opens up onto the street. Not only will the menu be "95% fish and seafood", the restaurant will have a counter where customers can purchase fresh fish and shellfish, and assorted homemade sauces, and other prepared foods for home. "Maybe lobster rolls, but who knows," Lassonde speculated. "It's still a bit early to tell."

Pier 66's co-owner added that while the space is beautiful (the redesign is by F&Y, of Bar Shinji, Mangiafoco), the food will lean casual. Lunches will likely be a $20 prix fixe, with a menu of small to medium plates to share for dinner. On the beverage side, look for classic cocktails, and private import wines, with an emphasis on sparkling and white. "I think March is a good month to open," an excited Lassonde concluded today. "It's not too busy a time of year, which will give us room to work out any kinks."