MONTREAL — The Montreal Canadiens have announced plans to open two restaurants through a partnership with Cara Operations Ltd. — the first next to the Bell Centre and the second at Place Bell in Laval, Que.
The Bell Centre location is set to open in time for the NHL team’s 2017-18 home opener (Oct. 10), with the Place Bell location slated to launch later this fall.
The concept, dubbed 1909 Taverne Moderne, is designed by the New York-based Rockwell Group. The first location will be a 25,714 sq. ft. space featuring three levels and seating for more than 1,000 guests — making it the largest restaurant of its kind in the country.
“We know that Montrealers are as discerning about their restaurants as they are about their sports. With 1909 Taverne Moderne, our goal is to give fans a space where they won’t have to choose between having a great meal and watching their favourite event in an electric atmosphere,” says Geoff Molson, owner, president and CEO of the Montreal Canadiens. “We’ve been working with our partners at Cara Operations to ensure that every detail is considered.”
The menu, designed by executive chef Jean-Sébastien Giguère, will feature locally sourced international cuisine. The restaurant will also offer 40 beers on tap, an extensive wine list and an innovative cocktail menu.
The Bell Centre location will include the latest technology in laser projections, a 4K-quality 46′ X 20′ main screen — the first of its kind in Canada — and more than 65 HD TVs, fed by the most comprehensive sports-broadcast package available. The restaurant will also feature a host DJ seven days a week.
