lou’s pointe claire review
If you’re like me and you’ve been dying to try Lou’s Pointe Claire, this review is for you.
My best friend and I decided to check out Lou’s Pointe Claire last Thursday. As we approached Lou’s there was a group of women gathered outside who had clearly had a girls’ night. They were standing around laughing and talking, waiting for their friend to join them. One of the women headed back inside to find out what was delaying their friend’s exit. “She’s probably in there chatting with someone” one of the friends said. “She always lingers behind” another said. You could tell they were long time friends, their shared history radiated from the circle they had created outside the bar.
As the one friend opened the door to head inside and rally the straggler, the pleasant murmur of jazz music and conversation wandered out the door into the March evening. A glance through the window revealed the warm decor, modern but in a way that sets the mood for a comfortable evening gathered around the table with friends. There were patrons of all ages, ranging from early 20s to late 60s. All engrossed in intimate conversations, some hunched over the table to get as close as possible to their company, others gesticulating telling wild stories and some simply savouring their food and drink.
Upon entering, we were greeted by the host. I recommend making a reservation as the place was full, not stiflingly so but just full enough to imply the location’s popularity. I personally love that as it gives a sense of being on the pulse of local happenings. Lou’s is a trendy location for sure; my friend mentioned she has even seen some reviews featuring Lou’s on TikTok (all excellent.)
The host asked if we would like a table or the bar and we opted for a table. He guided us to a standing area with a rich wooden ledge floating on a dark mirrored wall and a candle flickering in an amber vessel. He handed us our menus and said a waiter would be by to take our drink order while we waited.
A waiter came by not long after and we ordered two Signature martinis. Tanqueray Gin, orange bitters, dry vermouth and Himalayan salt topped with a droplet of olive oil. These drinks were sublime, the perfect balance of brine, salt and citrus.
After about 5 -10 minutes of happy people watching and taking in our swanky surroundings, we were guided to our table. The waiter informed us of the evening’s specials and we opted for the Spicy Tuna Carpaccio and the Crab Cake. Both were delicious, the flavours full and satisfying without any one overpowering the others.
We continued chatting, enjoying our evening and the warm buzz of the surrounding patronage. As the evening came to a close we paid our tab and made our way back outside where the stark silence of the suburban village met us. I snapped a moody shot of the Lou’s sign and we made our way back to the car satisfied and eager to return.
I would highly recommend Lou’s; it is well-designed with intentional decor from floor to ceiling. The ambiance is swathed in mid century flare while maintaining a neutral quality that adds to the caliber of the establishment. The staff is efficient and friendly, they are present and attentive but their style fosters the feeling of an intimate evening with your chosen company. The food is tasteful and diverse, providing something for every palate. The drinks are elegant, well-balanced and classic with a refreshing twist. All in all this is a gem to have welcomed to the West Island, a much needed evening retreat in league with the Cloak Room and Dominion Square Tavern (two of my personal favourites).