Thank you, dear Midnight Poutine reader, for the Riz en Folie recommendation! One of our readers sent us glowing praise about this new place, and wary as I was, I decided to check the place out. And wow - am I ever glad I did.

Riz en Folie is a new downtown resident, recently opening its doors on Mackay in late July. At first, I was wary...a resto serving only rice pudding? Sounded like a gimmick to me. But after visiting the place and sampling some of its goods, all hesitation was set aside. Forget ice cream - this is the new (and dare I say better?) snack of summer (and probably fall, winter and spring too).

First of all, the place is gorgeous. Brightly lit and entirely decorated in white, I felt I had entered a place of pristine cleanliness. Shocks of colour on the tabletops and behind the counter added to the atmosphere. When I walked in, I admired the stylish bowls of rice puddings, and was immediately served.
After being offered several sample spoonfuls of the dozen or so flavours of rice puddings (take note - they are more than happy to accommodate any curiosity you may have!) - I asked for a serving of the most interesting pudding, and was suggested a bowl of the chocolate diabolique, or, a spicy chocolate rice pudding. The layers of flavours in th pudding was incredible; it was rich and chocolately, but had a depth of cinnamon to it. It was perfectly creamy, and the rice was expertly prepared - not chewy in the least, and not mushy.
My other order was the passion fruit rice pudding, and this was utterly decadent. It was bright and tangy, bursting with fruit flavour. I have to admit: my tastebuds tingled.
I was offered samples of other puddings as well. The coconut rice pudding was rich and tropical. The pistachio was better than any pistachio ice cream I have ever tried. Finally, I sampled a chocolate rice pudding laden with marshmallows and pecans. Um....hello, heaven? Other flavours, such as creme brulee and chocolate-mint, will guarantee a return visit from me.
The final thing that had me convinced that Riz en Folie is a Montreal landmark in the making is its green approach. The puddings are sold in vibrantly coloured plastic dishes that you can take home with you - spoon and lid included. These dishes are microwave safe, and can be reused at the resto - if you bring your dish back (they even have sink where you can wash them!), they'll give you $0.25 off the $4.00 price of a pudding. $4.00 for absolutely decadent rice pudding, plus a reusable container? Riz en Folie, you're a resto to be reckoned with.
And the coffee? Fantastic! I had a cafe au lait that beat out even Little Italy's offerings.

For some of the friendliest service you'll ever get, and for a dessert that rivals even the best gelato, check out Riz en Folie. You won't be disappointed.

Riz en Folie
2153 rue Mackay
514.750.3415