Our chests can swell with pride once more on the foodie front, after many felt Montreal was snubbed in the inaugural Michelin Guide Québec, which came out in May. The first-ever North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list was released Thursday night in Las Vegas, and Montreal placed five dining establishments on the list, with the Little Italy gem Mon Lapin leading the way in the second spot.

Equally impressive is that Mon Lapin co-owner and sommelier Vanya Filipovic took the top spot as North America’s Best Sommelier winner.

Also on the best-restaurant list are such local faves as Montréal Plaza (22), Le Violon (29), Alma (43) and Beba (50).

Perennial favourite Toqué! didn’t make the cut, but its inspirational chef-owner Normand Laprise won the North America Icon Award.

New York City’s Korean-influenced Atomix took the No. 1 placing on the continent.

“We’re just over the moon,” Filipovic said when contacted in Las Vegas Friday at 7 a.m. their time. “We’re still so completely shocked. We didn’t see this coming at all. We almost fainted in the auditorium last night when it was announced. Really, we’re just a casual bistro for all intents and purposes, and it’s so important for us to be accessible.”

“We won No. 2, but I lost $200,” chimed in an animated........

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