La Croquetería Montréal offers a totally unique food experience mikecohen June 14, 2021 2804 Resto Notes: And now for something completely different… La Croquetería Montréal is a production kitchen that produces frozen, or prêt-à-manger, traditional Spanish Croquetas with deep European roots, a reminder of the homemade and comfort food values, so characteristic in the Mediterranean culture. The products are creamy, light and crispy. Luis Leon, aka Chef Tigretón, is a Spanish chef from Montreal well known for his TV show “The Latin Kitchen” and over 23 years of experience in the restaurant business all over Spain, England, U.S.A. and Montreal. I dropped by his popular storefront, La Croquetería Montréal, recently at 4520 A Park Avenue for my first take-out order. It was early May and I noticed the empty terrasse. “We have the biggest terrasse in town,” Tigretón smiled through his mask, pointing towards Jeanne Mance Park. There was a lot to choose from and opted for garlic shrimp, aged cheddar, margherita, smoked meat and strong Gruyere, Hawaiian, Cod and Blue Cheese Valdeon with garlic confit. For dessert I ordered leche merengada (an infusion of milk, cinnamon and lemon with its sweet touch) and The Munchie (Dulce de leche, candied lemons and coconut with a taste like lime pie and hot fudge). Everything was nicely packaged. As I drove home curiousity curiosity got the best of me, so I pulled over and began to sample a few: one, then two and stopping at five. I neatly sealed everything up and divided up the selection on a plate in my kitchen. Crunchy on the outside, each of course had a very different taste. I shared them with family and everyone agreed this is one very unique option for Montrealers. For more information: www.lacroqueteriademontreal.com or call 514-804-0654. Ice Cream Delight Juliette Brun is a visionary. From the 2003 debut of her first past Juliette & Chocolat store St. Denis Street in Montreal, there are now nine locations and a factory on the South Shore. She is a hands on owner, visiting each location. By her side is husband Lionel May, who oversees marketing and legal matters. Oh yes, somehow Juliette found time to build this successful business while raising five children with Lionel. The latest creation is The Chill Family, seven crazy frosty layered ice cream sundaes. I recently dropped by to sample Cookie Mamy – chocolate chip cookie dough, vanilla ice cream, Oreo cookie crumble and their own cocoa-hazelnut spread, topped with sweet whipped cream. Wow! -Mike Cohen
