Alexandraplatz Opens Today; Pullman Wows Critic; El Gordo Sets a Date

MILE-EX — It's a telltale sign that spring has arrived. Alexandraplatz, the seasonal, indoor-outdoor Mile-Ex bar that draws huge crowds and food trucks, returns from winter hiatus later today at 4 p.m.

MILTON-PARC — Le Journal de Montréal food critic Thierry Daraize gives Pullman three and a half stars on five this week. There's no mention of Moleskine, the anticipated new restaurant from Pullman's owners, Catherine Bélanger and Bruno Braën, but Daraize writes that the vanguard wine bar is as good as ever: "Parfaite harmonie vins et mets!"

LITTLE BURGUNDY — The countdown is on for El Gordo. The new Little Burgundy taco bar from Pizzeria Geppetto is slated to open mid-May, on arguably the most congested restaurant row in the city: Notre-Dame Ouest, between Charlevoix and Vinet.

SAINT-HENRI — Marché Atwater gets a new ice cream vendor this Friday. La Cabane bar laitier offers soft serve with chocolate dips or maple butter, slush drinks, milkshakes, and Mont-Blanc floats.

MILE-END — Gin fans rejoice. Mile End pub Bishop & Bagg has put together what is probably the most comprehensive menu dedicated to the spirit in the city, with over 100 types of gin, each with detailed tasting notes. There's a specialty Negroni menu too.

ROSEMONT — Chef Rodrigo Flores Maso has announced his departure from Madre on Masson, the Nuevo Latino restaurant from chef-owner Mario Navarrete. May 14 will mark Maso's last service.