I can say with confidence that there is a lot to see and do in Montréal. One of the things the locals are quite proud of, understandably, is the incredible food that can be found here. We did some reading and set out to experience four items which should be a must on anyone’s list who is in Montréal for more than a couple of days.
Number one is the Canadian classic, Poutine. After some research we found the best rated place for poutine was La Banquise.This family run business is open 24 hours a day and serves a very tasty poutine.The top photo in the blog is of the traditional poutine, French fries, gravy, and cheese curds. Seeing as there were two of us ordering I thought I would try the variation that included bacon. You can’t go wrong with bacon. Neither Karen or myself have ever had poutine before and we have to give it two thumbs up. It was very tasty.The choices are only limited by your imagination.Next on our list was Montréal smoked meat. Though originating in Eastern Europe smoked meat has become synonymous with Montréal smoked meat sandwiches. Swartz’s is considered to be ‘THE’ place to get your smoked meat in Montréal.We got ours to go and headed up to Mont Royal Park for a little picnic. At initial sight they aren’t very impressive, but they were delicious. I can say I am hooked.Something that I didn’t realize was a thing in Montréal is bagels. Apparently the manner in which they are cooked sets them apart from other bagels. I’m not a bagel expert so all I can say is they were awesome.One of the advantages of house sitting is you can end up in the middle of a gold mine when it comes to restaurants. We were able to just walk down the street to the highly rated St. Viateur Cafe for a breakfast bagel one morning. Watching the baking process in the wood fired ovens was very cool, but eating the bagel was even better. They are excellent.The last item on our list was maple syrup. 70% of the world’s maple syrup comes from Canada and 90% of that is from Quebec. By the way apparently the best syrup comes in a can.A number of companies sell it, however there is something very authentic about getting it in a tin can with a sticker on it identifying the location and name of the actual farm producing it. By the way, it is lovely.
Having four weeks here in Montréal gives us a wonderful opportunity to check out local pubs and restaurants. Every place we have been, whether in the touristy Old Port area or in very local shops, we have experienced nothing but friendly, helpful people. With two more weeks to go we are looking forward to adding a couple more foods and drinks to our list of favourites.
Damn I am sold. Montreal is now on my list !
Kevin P