Ramsay Launches First Canadian Restaurant Named Laurier in August 2011

On 09/08/2011, Gordon Ramsay launched Laurier Gordon Ramsay in Montreal, marking his first restaurant venture in Canada. The project involved a high profile rebranding of the historic Rotisserie Laurier BBQ, located at 381 Laurier Avenue West. The establishment had operated since 1936 and was widely known as a Montreal institution before the partnership introduced Ramsay’s name and updated culinary direction. The collaboration aimed to blend the restaurant’s traditional rotisserie heritage with a refreshed menu and modern presentation. While the iconic exterior and classic offerings remained part of the concept, the rebranding introduced revised dishes, updated plating, and changes to service. The launch drew significant media attention due to the transformation of a long established local venue and Ramsay’s entry into the Canadian market. The August 2011 opening represented Ramsay’s expansion into North America beyond his existing United States operations. The Laurier Gordon Ramsay branding highlighted both the historical identity of the restaurant and Ramsay’s involvement in menu development and repositioning of the Montreal location.