MONTREAL- Imagine you’re surrounded by snow banks, icicles, bundled by layers of warm clothing and you’ve got a serious case of winter blues, when all of the sudden you stumble upon a bright, happy, island inspired sign that says “Cocktail Hawaii.” I’ll give you one suggestion- go in.

The decor with its palm trees, plush parrots and monkeys, tiki beach accessories, and beautiful island scenic wall art will captivate you from your first moment at Cocktail Hawaii. You may even experience an intense desire to strip off your many layers and wish you were on the beach dipping your feet in the Pacific Ocean while you feast on one of their delicious treats.

The Ramli family, originally from Syria, established the unique restaurant in Montreal’s downtown core on DeMaisonneuve Street in 1998. They strived to provide fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch options for everyone- young, old, students, couples, families, tourists, and anyone who enjoys escaping the urban life for a little island relaxing.

The concept was inspired by their Middle East heritage where cocktails are very popular. Traditionally these cocktails are non-alcoholic (as they are here) and incorporate fresh chunks of fruit with healthy juices.

Cocktail Hawaii also offers a variety of sweet or savoury crepes, smoothies, fruit cocktails, waffles, and gelatos. The hardest part will be choosing just one. Regardless which you choose, you can be guaranteed it will be fresh and use only the best ingredients (no additives or preservatives). The menu is a visual one where you are able to see all the ingredients that will go into your creation. You may also substitute ingredients in case of allergies, or simply just being a picky eater.

A great aspect of the restaurant is the open-concept counter, which offers patrons the opportunity to watch their meal being made to order by the friendly, talented and enthusiastic staff. This is bound to definitely be an added touch to your island oasis dinning adventure at Cocktail Hawaii.

Waseem Ramli, one of the owners, suggests these popular favourites for newbies.

Cocktails: Exotic- mango pieces, avocado chunks, strawberry slices, avocado juice (unique to their restaurant), tropical juice, topped with ashta (a cream specialty of theirs), crushed pistachios, almonds, and honey.

I had this one when I met with Waseem. It was a perfect blend of sweet, savoury, and combined three of my favourite foods that I wouldn’t necessarily have thought to put together in a drink. The ashta was amazing- similar to ricotta cheese or cottage cheese but creamier, healthier, and truly a perfect touch for this cocktail. I highly recommend you try this one.

Crepes: Jamaica- chocolate spread, bananas, and strawberries on a freshly made crepe. One of my absolute favourites!

Pass Par Tout- Turkey, cheese, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes, and their signature secret sauce in homemade crepe.

Sirene- A warm crepe filled with shrimp, crab, avocados, and their secret sauce.

Breakfast option: Costa Rica- Eggs, turkey bacon, sausages, fruit with small crepe on the side.

If you do become addicted to their scrumptious dishes fear not as they are open every day from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. (until 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday). During the summer the restaurant has an outside terrace for customers to enjoy their delicious meal and beautiful summer weather.

I have never been to Hawaii (yet), although I have heard from a good friend and fellow Tripulu writer, it is true oasis and if it is anything like Cocktail Hawaii I am definitely excited to one day make that journey.

1645 deMaisonneuve Ouest, Montreal- (514) 933-8887 (Steps from Guy-Concordia Metro on the green line)