There are lots of new developments in the Montreal food scene this week: Kwizinn has a new home in the Old Port. The city has some enticing new brunch options as well, from Latin American dishes at Piel Canela to "world brunch" from La Base Café in Verdun.
Homer Simpson might just trade his beloved Springfield for Montreal, given the city's latest edible homage. A new NDG donut shop is drawing people in droves wanting to get their hands on the colourful, fluffy fried "d'oh" that's almost too cute to eat… almost. And then there's the limited edition empanada, bánh mì crossover no one knew they needed.
Here are the details:
La Base Café Brunch
Where: La Base Café, 5898, rue de Verdun
Reason to try: At this Verdun restaurant, the new brunch menu takes you around the world without leaving your seat. The "Shakshouka Luxor" ($17) serves up a taste of Egypt with ratatouille, halloumi cheese, and a fried egg, served with hummus toast and date molasses. If you're craving seafood, try the "Oslo Blinis with Smoked Salmon" ($20), or a bite of Mexico, there's the "Tulum Breakfast Nachos" ($17). For something lighter, the "3 Japanese Soufflé Pancakes" ($15) might float your boat, served with fruit compote and whipped cream, while burgers from Tokyo to Beirut ($20) prove a good bun knows no borders. Mimosas ($10) ensure your taste buds are well-travelled, too, giving you a bubbly passport to brunch bliss.
Mi Bao x L'Arrêt
The empanada bánh mì crossover from Mi Bao and L'Arrêt.
Where: Sandwich Mi Bao, 1073, rue Saint-Denis (downtown) | L'Arrêt, 651, rue Jarry Est (Villeray)
Reason to try: This downtown sandwich shop is known for playful fusions, like their delectable creole bánh mì crossover with Kwizinn, and now they're out with a new one. The empanada bánh mì is their latest creation mixing their classic filling with cheesy empanadas from street food spot L'Arrêt. They're a little flaky, a little melty, and available for a limited time at either eatery.
Homer's Donuts
Over a dozen colourful donuts on a blue background.
Courtesy of Homer's Donuts.
Where: 6206, rue Sherbrooke Ouest
When: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (while supplies last)
Cost: $2 to $3.50/each
Reason to try: Mmm… donuts! This new Simpson's-themed donut shop in NDG is serving three tantalizing types: traditional, gourmet and Homer's favourites. You can get classic pink iced treats topped with sprinkles, a playful Cookie Monster option, and even lotus-flavoured creations. Every donut comes out Instagram-ready and in sizes that promise you're getting your money's worth. They're big, they're fluffy, and they're packed in bright pink boxes that are hard to miss. You can get a dozen for about $30. Plus, the shop's Simpson-themed decorations and complimentary arcade game add an extra layer of fun to the whole experience.
