Birthdays = going out for dinner. It has always been the way my family have operated! This year (like last year) I ventured up to Aberdeen to celebrate my sister’s birthday. Last year was amazing – see the review of No. 1 Bar & Brasserie here – but this year she introduced me to a restaurant which quite frankly topped everything I’ve eaten in months.

That place is a gorgeous little family-run French restaurant called Montmartre! I will issue a warning to anyone planning to go – everything on the menu sounds amazing. And from what I’ve seen and tasted, everything is amazing.

Pigeon Rôti

This right here is a roasted crown of wood pigeon in a salad of blue cheese, apple and candied walnuts. As you can see from the picture, pigeon was a gorgeous rare ruby, and the salad just had a beautiful mixture of sweet and dry flavours to complement it. 

Noix de St Jacques

Just look at Jose gorgeously plump scallops! The pan seared king scallops were so tender with that lovely caramelised edge. They were served with a cauliflower purée, which I honestly think is up there *points* as one of the best accompaniments for scallops. It was dressed with toasted hazelnut, pomegranate and caper butter and some mixed leaves.

Moules

I was absolutely tortured because I want two of the main courses, but luckily one of them was the moules frites. I ordered my half portion and was just delighted! I can’t resist this Thai take on the dish, as I’ve tried this flavour combination a few times and I just adore it. The mussels are steamed in a coconut, onion, coriander and chilli broth. The size of the mussels here is also a point of praise – they’re huge! 

Filet de Bœf

Chargrilled Aberdeen Angus fillet served with roasted spring vegetables, peppercorn and cognac sauce. Simple and beautifully prelared.

Carré d’Agneau

Ok. This is where I’m awarding the ‘Best Food I’ve Eaten in Months Award’ – this was utterly brilliantly designed and beautifully cooked and presented. The beautiful blushing roasted rump of lamb was served amidst vegetables à la Provençal, a breaded creamy goats cheese and topped with a basil & mint pesto. I’m just lost for words to describe it, but essentially it contained all my favourite flavours.

Tartiflette

The classic potato dish which finds your potatoes layered in slices with cream, Reblochon cheese and crispy pancetta. It was okay. I didn’t absolutely love it, but it wasn’t bad either. I think it could have been a little more moist or creamy as it was rather stodgy. 
This was an outstanding meal, and I can honestly say that next time I’m in Aberdeen for dinner I will be making a bolt for this place! The staff are such lovely, warm and friendly people who wouldn’t have taken better care of us. 10/10! 

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Monmartre Restaurant
58-60 Mill Justice Mill Lane
Aberdeen
AB11 6EP

http://www.montmartreaberdeen.co.uk

01224 584599

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