When you ask people where to go for Portuguese chicken in Montreal, the first place they'll name is Romados.   

Located in the heart of the Portuguese quarter on "The Main" of Montreal, people have been flocking to Rotisserie Romados for years, for its succulent charcoal grilled Portuguese-style chicken.  It was a shock to Montrealers when there was a fire in January 2013 that forced its closure for 8 months, but it allowed owners to renovate the premises, and improve the ventilation system.  Because of it, you and your clothes won't end up smelling like smoke for the rest of the day.

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We recently revisited this restaurant while we were on our Portuguese food crawl through Rachel Street area.   We were delighted to find a bright and renovated place, full of big windows and seating areas for dining inside.  That's a real improvement, especially if you come during the winter.   In the earlier days, customers would pick up their meals and enjoy them at the nearby park.  

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The premise remains the same --- you order your food at the counter, then bring your meal to the cashier.  After that, you can then choose to  :  (1) take out your deliciously smelling food (either to the nearby park on Rachel

Street and St. Laurent Boulevard,  or any other location)  OR  (2) eat it right away on the premises.   There are stools and small tables located by the windows for those who can't wait to feast on that chicken and fries.   

Desserts and coffee are available as well, if you still have room after your meal.   These items, and all drinks, are ordered at the cashier. 

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Their pride and joy is their chicken.   It's marinated and grilled on a spitlike rotisserie over charcoal.  The meat is tender and tasty, without being overly spicy.  Their fries are fantastic and plentiful.  There's also chorizo on the menu, but most people are there for the chicken. 

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You can choose to have just the chicken alone, or as part of a meal that includes fries/rice and a fresh green salad.  All meals are served in styrofoam containers, so they're totally portable for wherever you choose to eat it.  Do NOT forget to ask for the Portuguese buns, the Papo Secos.  Their light airiness accompanies the meal perfectly.   Be forewarned -  that container will be heaped with fries and salad. 

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After our meal, we chose to take a stroll down St. Laurent Boulevard, and found a fantastic place for some authentic Portuguese pastries and coffee at Notre Maison Bakery.   With so many other Portuguese places within a 2-block radius, you're sure to find something delicious to eat.   Make sure to try out Portugalia which is located at the corner of Rachel Street and Clark Street.      

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So come on down to the Portuguese quarter where the flavors of grilled chicken, sardines, and natas will greet you. 

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