Unless you have been living under a sheet of ice, as a Montrealer or frequent visitor you should know about Montreal EN LUMIÈRE… you know, one of the largest winter festivals in the world, drawing 900,000 fans to experience the joy of Montreal wintertime through performing arts, gastronomy, outdoor DJ parties, original discoveries and so much more. Well it’s back and bigger than ever. Seriously.
A key component of the festival is by far its gastronomy program and for their 15th edition presented by RBC in collaboration with Bell, the program has been completely re-designed creating an array of enticing new series. This year, after hosting the world’s finest culinary masters for 14 editions, Montreal chefs will take centre stage. From February 20 to March 2, the Spotlight is on our city!
We have narrowed down some of our choice picks to guide you along this culinary journey in the most notable way:
Start with this: To kick off its 15th anniversary celebrations, a transformed [SAT] will host some 25 of the finest chefs in Montreal, who will welcome their guests with little gourmet dishes served up at various stations, each with a different theme based on light in all its states; conceived, designed and executed by local creators. Expect gastronomy, artistic presentations, music, an auction, lighting effects, philanthropy, enchanting décor, surprises and even an outdoor yurt. It’s a unique night with all profits donated to Centraide of Greater Montreal to aid in the fight against food insecurity. Tuesday, February 18, 6 p.m., Société des arts technologiques [SAT].
The Laurentians in Jean-Talon Market: Salle Mandoline in marché Jean-Talon Market welcomes eight chefs from the Laurentians, presenting 10 culinary workshops bursting with recipes inspired by their local products. Hosted by Jean-Paul Grappe, chef-advisor to the festival, and eight renowned chefs from the guest region. Saturday, February 22 and Sunday, February 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hats Off to Haiti Convivial Meal: Here’s a lively meal for 400 guests allowing you to immerse into the climate of the Pearl of the West Indies, Stephan Berrouet Durand, Chef of the Plaza Hôtel in Port-au-Prince and ambassador of Haitian cuisine, created a three-course menu characteristic of his native land. Haitian troubadours will enhance this festive event on Saturday, March 1, 6:30 p.m., Marché Bonsecours.
The Festival of Québec Cheeses: Back for an 8th edition, this is an opportunity to meet Québec cheesemakers, discuss their creations and the regional specificities that give a cheese its flavour and forge its character. Of course you can taste the Québécois “classics” while enjoying excellent wines and beers to pair along. Presented by Fromages d’ici. Thursday, February 20 to Sunday, February 23, Complexe Desjardins. Free admission.
The Great Louisiana Dinner-Show with Zachary Richard and Chef Patrick Mould: This is quite something special: An intimate performance of Zack’s greatest preceded by a top-flight, five-course Cajun menu prepared by starred chef Patrick Mould of Lafayette with the Balmoral kitchen brigade! Word is that Zachary himself will serve up some Cajun specialties to guests. Did someone say crawfish? February 23, dinner at 6 p.m., show at 8:30 p.m., L’Astral and Bistro Le Balmoral.
For info on all the events visit Montreal En Lumiere here.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
All images by: Ulysse Lemerise B.
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