Vanessa Muri

About Vanessa Muri

Montreal City Editor Vanessa Muri has lived in London and Tokyo, but finds the charms of her hometown irresistible. From the latest scoops to the best deals in Montreal and everything in between, don't miss her weekly take on life in the fair city.

Foodies Unite!

montreal musings Montreal (Feb.03.10)

The 11th edition of the High Lights Festival is nearly upon us, and though plans for the Sunlife Financial Performing Arts (with 40 shows planned) and the BMO Bank of Montreal Celebration of Light (including new destination Place des Festivals) are well established, I wanted to temp you with a bit of what you can expect for the SAQ Wine and Dine Experience. (Montreal Sweetspotters are usually about the food. ;)

This year’s featured country is Portugal, a land of rich, flavourful food and full-bodied wines. They'll be joined by six chefs from the featured city of New Orleans. If that isn’t enough, there is also the Festival of Quebec Cheeses to look forward to, as well as the Taste of the Eastern Townships weekend at Jean Talon Market.

It’s now February and a few events are already sold out. With close to 46 restaurants and chefs to choose from, it’s decision time. I know, I know, that's almost too much choice! (Almost.)

To narrow down the selection a bit, there are plenty of restaurants new to the festival this year, so if you’ve been going for years, this might be the perfect place to start.

1. Bistro Beaver Hall
2. Ferreira Café
3. KOKO Restaurant + Bar
4. Le Samuel de Champlain (Marriot Château Champlain)
5. Méliès Restaurant-Bar
6. Newtown
7. Restaurant Osco! (Hôtel InterContinental)

There are a few BYOW spots on the list this year, so if you’re on a bit of a budget, one of these restaurants might fit the bill.

1. Le Pégase
2. Restaurant Christophe
3. Beurre Noisette

And if you can’t make it for dinner, there are some lunch menus to get you through the work week, for the incredibly low prix fixe of $12.95 for a three-course meal. (My eyes nearly popped out of my head.)

1. La Khaïma
2. Douro
3. Salon Mogador
4. Prato pizzeria
5. Rumi
6. Kashmir
7. Byblos
8. Ong Ca Can
9. Stromboli

The festival runs from February 18th to the 28th, so get started on those reservations!

*** P.S If dessert is more your thing, then you’ll be pleased to know that Juliette et Chocolat has opened a third location: 3600 St-Laurent Blvd, corner Prince Arthur.

Thought that was sweet? You’ll enjoy:

- Restaurant Osco
- Les Cavistes Resto-Boutique
- Elegant Citrus Menu

Tags: blogs, Vanessa Muri, city editors

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