Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel facts for kids
Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel is a famous historic building in Old Montreal, Canada. It was the very first place in North America to get a special permit (called a liquor license) to serve drinks way back in 1754. This old inn, first built in 1688, is still a popular spot today. It has a fancy French restaurant and is a fun place for tourists to visit. Some people even say it's haunted by the ghost of a young girl from the 1800s!
History of Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel
The story of Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel began a very long time ago. The building was first put up in 1688. A French soldier named Étienne Truteau built it as his home. He lived there until he passed away in 1712.
Later, in 1754, a new owner named Richard Dulong changed the house. He turned it into a proper inn. This made it North America's first inn and the first place to get a liquor license under British rule. The inn became a popular stop for travelers needing a rest.
Over time, more inns opened, and this one became less popular. In the 1800s, it was even turned back into a regular house. But in 1914, Ludger Truteau bought it and brought it back to life as an inn. He named it Auberge Saint-Gabriel.
In 1987, the Bolay family bought the inn. They kept it going for travelers. Today, it's owned by Marc Bolay, along with famous singer Garou and Guy Laliberté. They have updated the inn. It now has thick stone walls and wooden floors. They also added a French restaurant, making it a modern yet historic place.
Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel Today
Today, Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel is a popular inn and restaurant. It's known for being the first of its kind. The owners have worked hard to keep its old-fashioned look. But they also made sure it has modern comforts. This mix of old and new makes it special.
The restaurant has a cozy feel, especially in winter. It has fireplaces and comfortable seating. It also has several private rooms for parties. There's even a club in the basement!
The restaurant serves delicious French-Canadian food. You can find many tasty dishes there. For example, they serve tender lamb and special lobster dishes. The food is considered elegant and high-quality.
The 19th Century Ghost Story
Auberge Le Saint-Gabriel is known for many old tales. One of the most famous is about a ghost. People say a ghost of a young girl from the 1800s lives there.
Not much is known about her story. But some people say she died in a fire at the building. Visitors and staff sometimes report hearing her playing the piano. It's a spooky and interesting part of the inn's history!
