Mondo Fritz

Mondo Fritz is a pleasure on The Main (or St. Lawrence Boulevard, for non-Montrealers). Many people discover Mondo Fritz when the line at Schwartz’s is too daunting; others follow their noses after the smell of the fries. I have been happily eating there for some time now, but my most recent visit provided a new experience: a good thing got better.

No table was available in the slightly raised and petite dining area for our party of three. Usually the restaurant has that perfect “not too empty, not too loud” balance, with a choice of tables. We were glad to wait, craving our veggie burgers (mmmm, topped with grilled onions AND mushrooms), having fallen entranced by the sinful smells from what has to be one of the tinier kitchens in the restaurant business. When another group showed up behind us, the waiting space grew a little close for comfort, but before we could even recognize any unpleasantness, the man behind the bar spoke a magical mouthful:

“Sorry for the wait. Can we get you a beer, on the house?” Did someone say free beer?

We were given a choice from Mondo Fritz’s many delights on tap, and our host was most gracious. Never have I had such a generous offering in a waiting situation, and this outstandingly friendly and almost unnecessary gesture was mondo impressive. All this without my reviewguys badge. Classy.

If you should happen to drop in and there is no line up…well, better luck next time. And in any case, french fry and beer connaisseurs will be sure to find Mondo Fritz has the goods. The international beer list boasts several choices divvied up by country (bonus geography lesson with every menu read).

Every dish served with fries comes with the Mondo dipping sauces extraordinaire. No need for ketchup here. Sample also: burgers, veggie burgers, sandwiches, salads. Easy eats that please without being run of the mill. Montreal’s cultural variety reflected in fry sauces and beer list. Dig in.

Note to vegetarians: Go ahead, have the poutine. There ain’t no beef product in that there gravy. Note to non-vegetarians: Visit Mondo Fritz. World-renowned meat eater DJ Meat has assured me his bacon cheeseburger was delectable and, from what I hear, gone in moments.

Mondo Fritz, 3899 rue St. Laurent, Montréal, QC, H2W 1X9. tel: 514.281.6521