The reopening of the iconic Le 9e restaurant in Montreal’s downtown Eaton Centre is set to bring a piece of history back to life. Originally inaugurated in 1931, the art deco space quickly became a popular destination for patrons, especially women. The department store at the time, Eaton, included this luxurious facility as part of its appeal. Designed by architect Jack Cafferty, the restaurant was renowned for its elegance and charm, making it a celebrated part of Montreal’s history.
After closing its doors in 1999 due to Eaton’s bankruptcy, Le 9e was classified as a heritage site by the Quebec government in the following year. This marked a significant step in preserving the historical significance of the space. Now, 25 years later, the property owner, Ivanhoé Cambridge, has painstakingly restored the restaurant to its original design. A team of local entrepreneurs will operate the revamped space, which can accommodate up to 500 people at a time.
The newly restored Le 9e features a 120-seat restaurant called Île de France, a cocktail bar, two multi-purpose rooms, and a large venue known as la Grande Salle. Renowned chefs Liam Hopkins and Derek Dammann have been hired to offer a fine dining experience inspired by the original establishment’s menu. While there may be changes to the overall experience, Montrealers who remember the original restaurant are likely to find some throwbacks that remind them of their past visits.
Dinu Bumbaru, the policy director of Heritage Montréal, expressed excitement about the reopening of Le 9e and looks forward to seeing the menu offerings. He noted that the original Eaton restaurant was known for dishes like chicken pie and green jelly, which may still hold a special place in the revamped restaurant’s menu. The protection of Le 9e as a heritage site was a significant move in preserving Montreal’s history, and the reopening of the restaurant is a testament to its cultural significance.
The revival of this Montreal landmark is a nod to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The art deco design of Le 9e, originally brought to life by Lady Eaton’s vision and architect Jack Cafferty, continues to captivate visitors and locals alike. The reopening of the restaurant serves as a reminder of the city’s past and its commitment to preserving historical landmarks. With a new team of entrepreneurs at the helm, Le 9e is poised to offer a unique dining experience that pays homage to its storied past while embracing the present culinary trends.
