Beauty's Luncheonette

It's not unusual for pedestrians passing by the corner of Mont-Royal and Saint-Urbain to see a line gradually forming outside Beautys Luncheonette, the famous Plateau Mont-Royal restaurant. And just like the line itself, the place is an institution where people want to be seen — regular customers, the curious, tourists and prestigious visitors from around the world.

Open since 1942, the luncheonette has all the elements of a classic institution: an iconic menu, a family history and a founder, Hymie Sckolnick, who despite his 90 years, spends as much time as possible in the restaurant to accommodate customers. "We always took our time by staying close to our roots," says Beautys owner, Larry Sckolnick.

"My own children want to take over," he continues. "They feel good here, they like to work together with their grandfather Hymie."  Although the three generations of Sckolnicks like to tease one another, the "tightly woven" family fabric allows them to rely on each other. "It's a bit of a tag-team. You have to leave early, I'll replace you and vice versa."