Le 9e: Montreal’s Iconic Art Deco Restaurant Reopens

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Key Takeaways

Eaton’s Montreal 9th Floor Restaurant is renowned for its Art Deco elegance and historical significance.
It recently underwent renovations, preserving its architectural beauty while introducing modern updates.
The restaurant’s highly anticipated reopening in May 2024 celebrated its architectural preservation and cultural heritage.
It is now a sophisticated venue for social gatherings, enhancing Montreal’s cultural identity.
The venue honours women’s empowerment and the collective memory of generations of Montrealers.

Historical Significance and Restoration

The Eaton’s Montreal 9th Floor Restaurant, Le 9e, initially unveiled in 1931, was more than just a restaurant; it was a social hub where people from all walks of life would gather, dressed in their finest, to dine and socialize is a beacon of art deco elegance, has a storied past that’s as rich and enthralling as its design. Le 9e, This place isn’t just about dining; it’s a tribute to architecture preservation, a cause close to the hearts of those who cherish every curve and chrome detail. The space, designed by renowned architect Jacques Carlu, was commissioned by Lady Flora Eaton to recreate the dining room of the Île-de-France transatlantic ocean liner.

Listed as a heritage building in 2000, the restaurant underwent extensive renovation in 2001 to restore its former glory. The restoration process was meticulous, with artisans from various trades working to preserve the original Art Deco elements while updating the space for modern use.

Some key challenges faced during the renovation process of Le 9e (the 9th-floor restaurant of the former Eaton’s in Montreal) included:

Preserve the original Art Deco design and materials while updating the space for modern use. The main challenge was retaining the spirit of the original 1930s design while respecting its heritage value.
They recreated the original decor and conserved materials from the 1930s. Most original materials, including parquet flooring, marble, benches, and ceiling elements, had to be preserved.
Determining the original colour palette. The architects had to analyze old black-and-white photographs to determine that the walls were initially light grey and beige.
Updating systems while preserving aesthetics. New ventilation and electrical systems had to be installed while keeping original Art Deco fixtures and design elements intact.
Bringing the space to current building codes required extensive work on multiple floors to ensure proper evacuation routes for the large capacity.
Updating comfort features like heating and plumbing to meet modern expectations while preserving the historical elements.
The project faced delays – initial talks started as early as 2001, but actual planning didn’t begin until 2016, with construction finally starting around 2022.
Finding the right operators to run the space as a viable business while respecting its heritage. It took years to find entrepreneurs willing to take on the project.
Balancing preservation with the need to create a space that could function in the modern downtown context and attract new generations.

The renovation required meticulous work by specialized heritage architects and artisans to overcome these challenges and restore the space while making it functional for contemporary use.

le 9e photo courtesy Colin Rose on Facebook — le 9e: Photo courtesy Colin Rose on Facebook

The Revived Le 9e Experience

Now reopened, Le 9e offers a blend of history and contemporary dining:

Restaurant Île-de-France: The main dining area can host up to 120 guests, serving brunch, lunch, and dinner throughout the week.

Bar à Cocktails Le French Line: A cocktail bar that operates in the evenings, offering a sophisticated nightlife experience.

Event Space: The venue is available for private events, continuing its legacy as a gathering place for Montrealers.

Le 9e Design and Preservation

The restoration maintained many original features:

Polished marble columns and surfaces
Original bathroom fixtures, including tubular porcelain pipe covers
Silver-plated wallpaper in smaller rooms
Monel metal doors, trimmings, air vents, and light fixtures with geometric designs

Cultural Impact

The reopening of Le 9e is not just a culinary event but a cultural renaissance for Montreal. It represents a bridge between the city’s past and present, offering a unique dining experience that celebrates Montreal’s architectural heritage and culinary innovation.

Visiting Le 9e

Located at 1500 Robert Bourassa, Suite 900, Montreal, QC H3A 3S8, Le 9e is now open for reservations. Whether you’re looking for a memorable dining experience, a cocktail in a historic setting, or a unique venue for an event, Le 9e offers a glimpse into Montreal’s golden age with a modern twist. The revival of Le 9e stands as a testament to Montreal’s commitment to preserving its cultural landmarks while embracing the future. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a living museum of Art Deco elegance and a celebration of Montreal’s rich history.

Le 9e Frequently Asked Questions

What Inspired Lady Eaton’s Vision for the Restaurant’s Design?

You’d be captivated by the artistic influence and historical elegance that sparked the vision for luxury dining. It’s a tale of design evolution, deeply rooted in cultural significance, offering a sense of belonging to many.

Are Guided Tours of Le 9e’s Art Deco Features available?

You’ll be thrilled to know that guided tours showcasing Art Deco history, architectural highlights, and preservation techniques are available to the public. Scheduling your tour now lets you immerse yourself in a world where trend meets tradition.

What Unique Dining Experiences Will Le 9e Offer Upon Reopening?

You’ll savour historic menus reinvented by celebrity chefs, immerse yourself in culinary workshops, and relish seasonal ingredients. Expect interactive dining that’s both trendy and immersive, making each visit a unique, can’t-miss experience for the in-crowd.

Conclusion

So, you’re gearing up to step back into the glory of ‘Le 9e,’ huh? Trust me, this isn’t just a meal; it’s a plunge into a bygone era of unmatched elegance and flair. With Jacques Carlu’s genius cradling every corner and a menu bound to dazzle, Eaton’s Montreal 9th Floor Restaurant is the comeback story we’ve all been craving. This isn’t just dining; it’s a cultural rebirth that’ll have everyone talking. Don’t miss out on making history—again.