Flamme du Sichuan

Flamme du Sichuan, on Rue Bishop near Concordia University, serves Sichuan cooking that does not tone down its heat: the menu is built around málà, the combination of chili heat and the tingling, numbing effect of Sichuan pepper. The dining room is calm enough for conversation and well suited to groups sharing several dishes.

How to get there

Rue Bishop runs between Peel and Guy streets downtown. Guy-Concordia metro station (green line) is the closest, a short walk away, and Peel station is also within walking distance. The restaurant is in the heart of the Concordia campus area, surrounded by student cafés and bars.

What to order

Look for mountain-style laziji (crispy chicken buried in dried chilies), fish in golden broth with pickled chilies, braised fish, dry-fried meats and rabbit with pickled peppers. Cold appetizer plates dressed in chili oil are a good way to start. Balance the heat with pea shoots sautéed with garlic, and try an ice powder dessert, a cooling Sichuan sweet, to finish.

Atmosphere

The room is simple and comfortable, designed for sharing: dishes are brought to the centre of the table and everyone helps themselves. It works well for groups of friends, students and anyone who loves spicy food. Ask the staff to guide you if you are new to Sichuan cooking.

Plan your visit

Flamme du Sichuan is best enjoyed with a group, so you can order several dishes and balance spicy plates with milder ones. Tell your server how much heat you can handle; some dishes can be adjusted. The restaurant is in the heart of the Concordia area, so lunch and dinner can be busy during the academic year. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the shops of Sainte-Catherine are within walking distance.

Good to know

• Address: 1419 Rue Bishop, Montréal, QC H3G 2E4
• Phone: 514-360-8576
• Nearest metro: Guy-Concordia (green line); Peel is also nearby
• Neighbourhood: Downtown Montreal, near Concordia University
• Cuisine: Sichuan (Chinese)
• Budget: $$
• Best for: Spice lovers, groups, students
• Tip: Portions are large and several dishes can be adjusted for spice level

Why it is on our list

Flamme du Sichuan delivers the real intensity of Sichuan cooking in the heart of downtown. Looking for more bold flavours? Our guide to Montreal food trends covers the regional Chinese cooking that is reshaping the city’s dining scene.

Hours, menus and prices change often. Confirm opening hours and reservation policies directly with the restaurant before you go.