Montreal - What not to miss?

[lisasev]

Hi,

I will be going to Montreal in August for 3 days. What are some nice restaurants/bistro's to dine at? Also, I would like to sample some chocolates while I am there. Thanks.

[souschef]

For chocolates go to Le Maitre Chocolatier at 1612 Sherbrooke West. The best I have tasted in Montreal so far.

If you like balsamic vinegar do not miss the balsamic jelly at Fino next door to the chocolatier. I cannot recommend it enough. A 250ml jar is $16.50.

[pinalafina]

I second Le Maître Chocolatier. The chocolates are divine and are made from Michel Cluizel. I am now addicted to the ones filled with caramel and peanuts!

There is also an elegant tearoom but neved tried it.

[souschef]

Never tried the caramel and peanuts. I like the praline (which again is caramel and nuts) and the pistachio & almond.

When I was there a coupls of weeks ago the guy there told me to be careful with some that I bought as the couverture had not yet set completely (they were that fresh). Not wanting to mess up the chocolates I ate them right there. He also told me that they make all the fillings right there, and that their chocolates are never more than 2 days old.

[gourmetgirls]

I was given chocolates from Genevieve Grandbois that were really beautiful, aside from being simply delicious. If you are willing to go "off the beaten track" i would try hers... she's at 162 Saint-Viateur Street West, a few blocks east of Parc. You can try some authenitc Montreal bagels while you are up there.

[durhamois]

Schwartz's Deli (on St. Laurent) has to die for smoked meat sandwiches. It's THE place to go for lunch, just be prepared for a long line.

Au Pied du Cochon (Plateau) is terrific for dinner.

[Campofiorin]

And a big plus about Au Pied DE Cochon is that right next door there's Les Chocolats de Chloé.

[RhondaB]

And if you find yourself on St. Viateur, don't forget to stop at St. Viateur Bagel, just east of Parc for unforgettable bagels.