Call it a literal sea change for the former Anabel on Bernard, on the border of Mile End and Outremont. The bygone wine bar has been remade as Le Pier 66, a fish and seafood restaurant and counter, from two former employees of the now closed L'Autre Version in Old Montreal: partners Jessie Lassonde and Pierre Jean, and chef Marc-André Lavergne (Accords, Aszu). F&Y, the firm behind the likes of Bar Shinji and Mangiafoco, is responsible for the look. Lassonde told Eater that Le Pier 66 would maintain 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."
Le Pier 66 is now open for lunch (Tuesday to Friday) and dinner (Tuesday to Sunday). Notable menu items include smoked mackerel Niçoise, spaghetti alle vongole, homemade smoked fish plate and bagels, and Îles-de-la-Madeleine scallops with crispy sweetbreads. The restaurant's takeout counter is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. A brunch service is also in the works.