We now know the judges of the long-awaited TV series, MasterChef Quebec. You can find it below. Also, we have for you the details of the Folies gourmandes which will take place at the end of the month in Granby. Finally, we will take an overview of the new kind of Italian coffees that are growing in Montreal. Embark now for your fast delivery!
First, Martin Picard and Stefano Faita, longtime friends, will be the judges of the Quebec adaptation of MasterChef, broadcast on TVA next winter. They will evaluate the dishes of competitors new to catering, while proposing tests and piloting the competition. The two chefs, well known on television and restaurant owners, will bring their expertise behind the stoves and will have a role of encouragement and motivation for the participants.
The winner of this first season will win a grand prize of $50,000 as well as the MasterChef trophy. The season will feature 52 thirty-minute episodes directed by Guillaume St-Arnaud and produced by Marie-Ève Gariépy.
The Quebec adaptation of MasterChef is part of a long global tradition with nearly 70 versions shot around the world. 3,000 people have already registered, including 135 profiles deemed interesting, who will go through auditions.
Then, the three-day gastronomic festival, Les Folies Gourmandes, will be held at Place du Marché in Granby this fall from September 29 to October 1. The festival begins with a five-course gourmet dinner on September 29, prepared by local chefs with local produce, including braised beef cheek in a coffee crust and fleur de sel chocolate. The dinner can accommodate up to 120 guests at the price of $200, taxes included.
On September 30, 45 agri-food exhibitors will be present with pot cooking workshops, activities for children and culinary conferences. On Sunday, October 1, the Festival d’la Tite-Frette will offer tastings of local beverages from microbreweries, cider houses and vineyards in the region. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The MRC de La Haute-Yamaska supports this event which aims to showcase the gastronomy of the region. Granby Mayor Julie Bourdon points out that Granby is renowned for the quality and diversity of its restaurants, and the Folies Gourmandes will provide an opportunity to discover local flavors.
Finally, in Montreal, a new generation of modern Italian cafes combines Italian tradition with newer elements. These establishments promise quality espresso in a welcoming environment, far removed from macho stereotypes. Andreas Vecchio opened the Caffettiera Caffé Bar during the pandemic, one of the few traditional Italian cafes in downtown Montreal. It seeks to bring back third wave customers by offering 21st century Italian coffee.
Third-wave coffees favor fruity, floral, and spicy aromas, while Italian coffees are often more full-bodied. Andreas Vecchio wants to combine the best of both worlds by offering high quality Italian coffee in a modern and inclusive setting. He insists on the importance of product knowledge for Italian coffees.
Another cafe, Café Americano, also blends Third Wave elements with an Italian tradition. Despite its modern appearance, it remains a traditional Italian cafe that has been able to attract a wider clientele thanks to its espresso quality. Espresso quality remains essential, although the drinks menu offers more varied options.
Tomas Sanchez, founder of start-up Th3rdwave, notes that many third-wave cafes are now adjusting their offerings to appeal to a more diverse audience by offering more developed roasts while maintaining their ethical values.
