Historic Eaton Le 9e Restaurant in Montreal Set to Reopen After 25 Years
April 26, 2024 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett
Montreal is buzzing with anticipation as the historic Eaton Le 9e restaurant, a designated cultural heritage site, is set to welcome diners once again on May 17th after being shuttered for 25 years. First opened in 1931 by Lady Eaton, the wife of department store magnate John Craig Eaton, Eaton Le 9e has been a beloved gastronomic destination housed on the 9th floor of the Eaton Centre.
The restaurant was originally designed by architect Jacques Carlu at the behest of Lady Eaton, who was inspired by the dining hall of the French ocean liner SS Île de France. For decades, Eaton Le 9e remained a favored spot among locals for its unique atmosphere and culinary offerings. However, the collapse of the Eaton retail empire in 1999 led to the restaurant’s closure, leaving its historical interiors locked away from public admiration.
In March of last year, restoration efforts commenced under the guidance of EVOQ Architecture, focusing on reviving the restaurant’s historical interiors to their former glory. The restoration aims to preserve the original aesthetics that made Eaton Le 9e a landmark, while introducing modern amenities to enhance the dining experience.
This reopening marks a significant moment in Montreal’s cultural and culinary scene, promising to reignite the grandeur of the past while continuing to create new memories for its patrons. The relaunch of Eaton Le 9e is not just a reopening of doors, but a revival of a piece of Montreal's rich history.