While the Festival d'été de Québec is already just a memory, the restaurateurs of the National Capital presented the results of their activities. Among other things, discover what the visiting artists appreciated the most... Also in this Quick Delivery, a recruiter of foreign workers flees without completing his mandates given by restaurateurs in need of staff and a new McCafé counter is born at the airport.
First, at the Festival d'été de Québec, the artists were delighted by the meals prepared behind the scenes by four restaurants in the city, including Hono Izakaya, Hono Ramen, Colibri and Sushibox. The varied menu included sushi, wraps, healthy salads, ramen noodles, poke bowls and poutine. Singers like Thom Yorke of The Smile and members of Green Day have expressed satisfaction with the quality and diversity of the dishes. Festival programmer Louis Bellavance also received praise for the backstage dining choices. The Cowboys Fringants, whose show was canceled, were treated to their favorite dishes to savor their evening. Nearly thirty restaurant workers worked from morning until late at night to feed the artists and musicians throughout the 12 days of the festival.
Moreover, the 2023 edition received mixed reviews from catering players due to the vagaries of the weather. The first week was good, but weather and show cancellations led to quieter times. Despite the weather challenges, some festival-goers said they were satisfied with the overall experience, while others were surprised by the crowds on “big nights”, which made access to the facilities more difficult.
Second, several restaurateurs in Quebec have been victims of a scam by a recruiter of foreign workers, Adalberto Sauceda Moreno, who left the country without performing the services for which he had been paid. At least three restaurateurs reported this mishap.
Some restaurant owners were in desperate need of labor due to the shortage, but were disappointed by the lack of results from the recruiter. Payments ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 were made to find workers who were never recruited. Restaurateur Félix Lemieux Dallaire called the experience "nonsense", saying Mr. Sauceda asked for checks in his personal name and money from candidates. Some restaurateurs are considering legal action against him. Mr. Sauceda, currently in Mexico, defends himself by saying that the restaurateurs have decided to interrupt or not renew the contract with him. No police complaints or lawsuits have been filed, but the restaurateurs are determined to have their story heard.
Finally, a brand new independent McCafé counter has just opened at the Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, offering travelers a unique gourmet experience. Located in front of gate 50, it is the first concept of its kind in the province and in Canadian airports. Travelers will be able to taste exclusive McCafé specialties as well as their favorite products from the classic menu. The menu includes croissant sandwiches, fresh pastries, gourmet grilled cheese, original frozen drinks and more, available any time of the day. The counter also offers a wide variety of signature beverages, such as ultra-shakes, matcha lattes and espresso drinks, with almond milk and soy milk options available. This is a new culinary experience for travelers at YUL airport!
