January 23, 2012

Patisserie Kouign Amann

Equal parts unpronounceable and unforgettable! No trip to Montreal would be complete without eating a perfect croissant - the question is, where to find it! Those who have tried them at Kouign Amann declare that their croissants are the best in town, bar none. I concur! Located at the corner of Mont-Royal and St. Denis in the heart of the Plateau neighborhood, the proximity to shops and other food establishments make this an ideal setting.This tiny patisserie has only one table...most would walk by without noticing as it would be easy to miss, but don't let the size fool you. The quality of this establishment is exceptional. The pastries and quiches are made with passion you can taste! As with all good things that must end so too do the croissants, you must go early!

Located at 322 Mont-Royal Est, in the Plateau.

January 22, 2012

La Croissanterie Figaro

Located at the border of the Mile End and Outremont this enchanting french bistro serves up divine croissant sandwiches. Friendly, young waitresses, charming terrace and delicious food = great vibe! Sought after by locals for a relaxed meal, as well as by business people for informal meetings accompanied by a glass of Rose wine. This place lends itself to accommodate all. Although the restaurant itself is also very attractive, breakfast and brunch outside in the terrace is a tranporting experience. You feel as if you were in a place far from North America, although perhaps not France either...Sure there is croque monsieur and croque madame but there are many, many more options and committing to only one is not easy. The meals are rich, do not go if you are on a diet....do go for you are looking for a delectable treat for breakfast, brunch or lunch....it will not disappoint!

Located at 5200 Rue Hutchison in Mile End.

Cafe Olympico (Open Da Nite)

Barista Vito would possibly be the best barista in the world, if there were such a competition. Although it has a huge locals following, word about the exquisite coffee has been out for a long time and this place, although non-descript appearance to the untrained eye (multiple TVs showing sports events) is a magnet for serious coffee connaisseurs. Located in the trendy Mile End neighboorhood, near the world famous St. Viateur bagel shop, in the 1980's this cafe was frequented by Italian, chain smoking, card playing, pool table & fooz ball afficionados. This cafe is now a must, listed in Montreal travel guides, and revered by locals, foreigners and celebrities. The cafe is becoming a celebrity in itself, having recently been featured in the fabulous Quebecois film Cafe de Flore. You don't go here for food, you don't even go here for breakfast (although you can bring food from outside), you go here merely for the coffee. And you stay anywhere between 30 seconds and a few hours....The cafe is best known for the latte and the allonge, and the baristas can serve up to 8 coffees per 4 minutes! The magnetism of this place is unmatchabe with people often detouring for a coffee stop leading to impromptu meetings which add to the dynamic and energized vibe of this place!

Located at 124 Rue St-Viateur Ouest, in Mile End.