There are a few things that we Montrealers are passionate about; politics, the great bagel and smoked meat debates, road construction and a good food festival. If you think hard, you’ll be able to remember the times the city was literally a buzz with food-centric events. Hungry hoards of foodies making the trek to different parts of the city all in the name of devouring some of the best dishes by the city’s best culinary talents. One of the biggest Old Montreal food festivals is back after a two year hiatus; Happening Gourmand and it’s better than ever.
Food
Cheers! Santé! Kampai! “When I say sake, you say bomb… SAKEEEEEE…” We’ve all said these things at one time or another. If you’re not Vietnamese (or drank with Vietnamese friends) I’m about to put you on to a new drinking toast. “1…2…3… Yo!” which roughly translates to “1,2,3 let’s go!” This toast is the namesake of the newly opened Vietnamese spot in Laval, 1,2,3, Dzo! A spot that is offering up legit street food eats and an authentic curb-side dining experience. Be honest, we’re all fans of street food and we’re fortunate enough in Montreal to have access to all kinds. From Japanese izakayas, to Korean indoor stalls, Chinese crepes and dumplings and Vietnamese pubs, we’re got them all, and now, we’ve got another.
Dinner and a show – Okeya Kyujiro combines omakase and theater for a unique dining experience
I recently had to opportunity to check out one of the hottest tables in the city right now. And by “table”, I mean “bar”… as in sushi bar. Okeya Kyujiro is one of the newest Japanese restaurants and it has taken the city by storm. Be honest; have you ever been asked what you wanted to eat and you answered with, “whatever”? You’re in luck, because this spot has you covered. Okeya Kyujiro serves an omakase menu exclusively. This Omakase menu is a 25-course sensory exploration. Short of the assorted 20 piece pre-made sushi box you pick up from your local sushi spot, the omakase menu at Okeya Kyujiro is more than a meal, it’s an experience.