Le Relais - Lac-Brome

Pretty much everything about this place was disappointing. Let it be said as a frame: the staff were clearly overwhelmed. That said, at the prices we were paying, the management should have insured better coverage. We waited a very long time for our order to be taken, for our food to be brought, and -especially- for someone to take our money. I sat for 20 minutes trying not to be a pushy American. In the end, I made myself very visible at the entry counter so that someone would take my credit card. Given the ratings and the prices, to say I was disappointed by the food would be a major understatement. I decided to splurge and get the NY sirloin, medium. I was served a thin piece of meat with a fair bit of gristle that was well-done, dry and tough. I had waited too long and was too hungry to send it back. Our server acted as if our ordering food was personally offensive to her. She was short with us and left us waiting for long stretches, as I've mentioned. I would not recommend this place to anyone.

We have been in other years and saved it for a special occasion and also our last nite in Knowlton because it had been so memorable. Last nite was a total miss. food was ok ...service terrible. How can the only server be so busy standing behind the bar waiting on her friends while we sat waiting for drink refills..food order dessert options and then the bill? We were the only table with patrons!!!!!!! The chairs were on top of all the tables around us before we even finished eating which obviously announced :get out we are closing ! 0 out of 10

This restaurant allegedly inspired Louis Penny's bistro in her Inspector Gamach mystery series. And no wonder! The atmosphere is village casual, while the food is excellent. Certain telltales reveal kitchen quality, such as flavorful but crisp (not tough) asparagus or broccoli, or steak nicely seared outside but tender and juicy inside. Attentive, friendly service also signal good management. LeRelais has it all.

This pub had outdoor and indoor seating. Loved the wooden duck out front. The server did not know if it was Rosa from the Louise Penny novels though.

Dropped in for late sunday lunch. Great burgers and wait staff was friendly, attentive. They also had a great beer sélection.