When I initially set out to indulge in a day of feasting in Montréal for a Québec Issue, I never imagined that a single day would magically transform into a delightful trio of days! Thanks to a dear friend’s recommendation, I had the pleasure of connecting with Marie Comtois, a true Montréaler, who graciously offered to serve as our guide and chauffeur, vowing to reveal some of the city’s best-kept culinary secrets.

As we weaved through the vibrant streets with Marie at the helm, it became evident that we were in expert hands. She exuded a daring, modern-day cowboy spirit as she fearlessly navigated us through a dizzying maze of one-way streets and construction detours. Despite her frustrations with the city’s road conditions and the abundance of traffic, Marie was resolute in her mission to uncover hidden gems and share her favourite haunts with us.

Thanks to her expertise, we managed to explore a staggering 16 gastronomic hotspots in just over 30 hours, indulging in everything from flaky croissants to flavourful dumplings and decadent cannoli. However, there were moments when I yearned for a more leisurely pace to truly relish each delectable meal. Marie’s efficiency was unparalleled, but a tad more time to digest would have been a welcome luxury on occasion.

It was an extraordinary odyssey, and Marie’s unwavering passion for her city’s culinary landscape was nothing short of inspiring. Her commitment to divulging her beloved eateries, while remaining open to discovering new ones alongside us, added an extra layer of enjoyment to our escapade. It was a whirlwind of epicurean pleasures, and I couldn’t have asked for a more remarkable guide to escort us through Montréal’s dynamic and diverse food scene.

Throughout our escapade, I found myself in awe of Marie’s profound understanding of the city’s gastronomic culture and her eagerness to go above and beyond to ensure that our journey was truly unforgettable. Her indomitable spirit and determination were truly commendable, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to explore Montréal’s culinary world under her expert guidance.

As we bid adieu and parted ways with Marie, a profound sense of gratitude swept over me for her warm hospitality and authentic adoration for her city. It was truly an experience to cherish, and it wouldn’t have been possible without Marie’s exceptional guidance.

So here’s to an enchanting culinary expedition in Montréal, brimming with delectable delights, unforeseen discoveries, and the unyielding spirit of a genuine urban trailblazer as our guide. Cheers to Marie and the unforgettable memories she helped create!