Last week, Vancouver hosted the 2009 Canadian Culinary Championships. Mathieu Cloutier, chef of Montreal’s Kitchen Galerie, was awarded the coveted title of overall champion. The Montreal chef outshone his competitors, many of whom have already achieved international acclaim.
Kitchen Galerie is located on Jean Talon Street, a stone’s throw from the landmark Jean Talon Market. This culinary achievement is certain to beef up business at the Montreal eatery that Clouthier owns with his friend, Jean-Phillipe St-Denis.
The two friends came up with an innovative new restaurant concept. The establishment’s 25 tables completely surround the kitchen so customers can watch their favourite dish being prepared from the comfort of their seats. There are no servers. The chefs do it all! They take the orders, prepare the food, and then serve the dishes. This creates a warm ambiance, establishes a rapport, and allows them to stay in tune with their customers’ needs.
Having the large and very cultural food market so close, the restaurant can vary its daily menu to serve up dishes made with only the freshest of seasonal ingredients.