Fancy but not stuffy, Plateau newcomer Le Violon is delighting Montrealers with its warm service, sophisticated menu inspired by the Italian, Egyptian, and Irish roots of the chef-owners, a predominantly natural wine list, and clever cocktails, including a very nice gin-infused take on a Vesper martini. We’ve loved their interpretation of kibbeh nayeh, hand-cut raw beef with bulgur that’s liberally laced with tahini, as well as their gochujang-glazed sweetbreads and pillowy gnocchi in a cavolo nero sauce—all of which we’re hoping will stay on the menu for a while. Sit at the banquette underneath the huge painting of a Dalmatian for a picture-perfect moment, and make sure to check out the Varlhona Basque cheesecake or any of their other spectacular cakes before you leave.