text: We were visiting from New York City and spent a long time searching for a place to eat dinner Taking a chance on Safran et Canelle after reading it is lone review on Yelp we discovered a gem The decor is spartan yet the place has a relaxed feel about it We were waited on by the owner who also prepared all of the dishes Everything we ordered chicken and couscous braised lamb shank and chicken with lentils perfectly prepared and exquisitely seasoned I appreciated his judicious use of salt especially Each entree included either soup or salad and the meal was finished off with Moroccan pastries and mint tea The owner said that he cooked with his heart and this was certainly evident in the deliciousness We have eaten at several North African restaurants in our neighborhood in Astoria Queens New York and I must say that Safran et Canelle beats them all The next time we are in Montreal this place will be top on our list