For the rest of the world, Canada is synonymous with a few things – maple syrup; Celine Dion; wholesome, generally nice people; Neil Young; and when it comes to the realm of food, poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy, for the uninitiated). Having opened back in 1969, Ashton is the oldest poutine chain in Canada. With 23 branches in...
There’s always something intriguing about niche, singular companies, stores and brands. When I was growing up, I distinctly remember a shop that sold only various things made out of wicker, for instance. It both intrigued and baffled me then, before I understood the concept of a ‘front’, a la (or so rumour has it) the numerous shops that once lined...
Les Francos de Montréal is Canada’s premier festival of French language music and culture. Held annually in downtown Montréal, it is a fixture in both the social calendar and cultural life of the city, and the wider francophone world. This year’s edition of the festival has been given a sophisticated new look, courtesy of LG2, Canada’s largest independent creative agency...
Nourcy is a delicatessen that has been creating fresh, home-made and original products for thirty years from its location in Quebec City. While providing a contemporary dining environment Nourcy also offers catering services and lunch boxes to customers who have come to expect restaurant-quality at work and at home. In conjunction with a new menu of pastries, an expanded chocolate selection, exclusive gourmet delicacies and the development of a...
Léon Courville is a Canadian vintner growing grapes and producing wine from a 18 hector vineyard surrounding his home near Ville de Lac-Brome, Quebec. The uniquely rocky, chalky and clay soil, the region’s later farming seasons and the warmth from Lac-Brome gives Léon Courville’s wine a distinctive flavour profile, one that has secured international recognition. As well as being interested in...