Cunningham's Irish Pub
Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue | $$ | Website
Cunningham's is likely my favorite watering hole. Located on the western tip of the Island of Montreal, at 75 Rue Ste-Anne, in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, this cozy homegrown establishment has seen success not only at this location - but another not too far away at the West Island Tennis Club in Beaconsfield, and soon, a 3rd location in the picturesque Town of Hudson.
Owner/operator Jim Beauchamp is a bar/restaurant stalwart in Ste-Anne's and seems to have a knack in following the trends and catering to his optimal clientele.
Pub fare and familiar pub-style entrees can be found on this menu, with modest pricing, tasty food, and fast, friendly service. The bar tends to get a bit crowded into the evening on Thu/Fri/Sat, so if you're looking for a quiet low key dinner, you're best to hit it up earlier in the night.
A favorite treat of mine, which comes with my most glowing recommendation for you to try, are any of their 6 or 7 types of Wings. The Honey Garlic Wings are awesome, and if you aren't interested in having to towel down post-Wings, the Lemon Pepper variety are not only pretty ''clean'' but absolutely delicious. These can be washed down with their sweet potato fries and chipotle sauce.
What kind of Irish Pub would this be without a huge variety of draught beer? Guiness, Grolsch, Harp, Sleeman, Kilkenny, you name it. They've probably got it. There is also a fair bit of live music here, with open mic and jam style nights where locals and guests are invited to take a shot at entertaining the crowd.
My rugby club hangs out here a lot during the season. The place is cozy enough that when the patrons get going you need but ride the wave of excitement. There is often little room to move around and the place can get quite hot when they pack 'em in.
Take my word for it, you absolutely must try the Wings discussed above. I kind of feel like hitting it right now.