lifenow

Flavours of Montreal still a cut above

Story by Stacie Gaetz

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Photos by iStock

Flavours of Montreal Bakery & Deli is adapting to life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The unique restaurant that has become famous for its authentic smoked meat sandwiches and poutine, has been providing fresh food in a colourful and inviting atmosphere for just over a year.

Owners Carolyn Clarke and Jacques Juteau said they were able to keep the establishment open during the height of the pandemic by offering their food via take-out, curbside pick-up and delivery.

“We have been very fortunate, we did not lose any business whatsoever, we have been on a steady increase since everything started,” said Clarke.

They are now providing deli-style service where customers come in, order, pick up their food and take it to go.

Before the pandemic, the small, bright space offered table seating, but Clarke said they have made the decision not to re-opening the dine-in portion of the restaurant.

“We had limited seating prior and we feel that bringing back seating is not in our best interest,” she said.

“We would not have the room to properly social distance. COVID-19 has changed the world as we know it. I would expect that many people don’t feel comfortable sitting in a restaurant right now.”

She added that they have implemented a number of safety measures including regular disinfection and sanitation, the installation of a plexiglass shield at the cash register and hand sanitation stations.

The hours of the restaurant have also changed, it is now open Thursday to Saturday 11 am to 8 pm and Sunday 11 am to 6 pm.

“The support from the community has been overwhelming. I personally love it when I see the reaction from people when their food is delivered. The surprised look, the smile – it warms my heart,” said Clarke.

“We wanted to share what we love with the city. Airdrie is a wonderful community; the people are very supportive.”

For more information, click here.

To read our Winter 2019 story featuring Flavours of Montreal, click here.

stacie@frogmediainc.ca