It was a mystery of the olfactory kind. What was that intoxicating smell wafting down St. Urbain Street as we exited Place d’Armes metro?
Following the blissful scent for two more blocks, we came upon the busy premises of the new Patisserie Harmonie. This small, bright Hong Kong-style bakery offers a wide variety of freshly baked treats and savoury breads displayed behind clear plastic domes for our perusal (and pleasure).
Tongs in one hand, beige tray in the other, we surveyed the plump yellow buns. With names like Lotus (peanut butter-style filling, 80¢) and Coconut & Custard (80¢), there was a lot of experimenting to be done. An early favourite was the wholesome Sesame Roll ($1), which looked (and tasted) like a chocolate croissant.
Out of tong’s reach, elaborately decorated cakes start at $8, with many available by the slice. And the drinks bar provides smoothies, coffees and teas to go, including the popular Thai “Bubble” variety. (Tapioca pearls, anyone?)
The only thing missing was somewhere to sit and enjoy our handpicked snacks, so we wolfed ours down in the entrance way with the regulars. As the saying goes: “When in Chinatown…”
Patisserie Harmonie
85 de la Gauchetiere Ouest
(Corner St. Urbain)
514-875-1328