New York Times Declares Montreal a 'Rotisserie Chicken Heaven' in Glowing Review
The New York Times has published a lavish tribute to Montreal's barbecue chicken culture, describing the city as having reached "rotisserie chicken heaven" in a feature that celebrates its unique culinary landscape. The article, written by New Orleans-based food reporter Brett Anderson, positions Montreal's rotisserie offerings alongside iconic dishes like poutine, smoked meat, and bagels as quintessential Canadian classics, all with deep roots in the city.
Spotlight on Montreal's Premier Rotisserie Establishments
Anderson's coverage delves into several key venues that define Montreal's chicken scene. He highlights Rôtisserie La Lune in Little Italy, a more formal establishment from the acclaimed Mon Lapin team, which has garnered significant attention. The piece also references classic spots such as Chalet Bar-B-Q in N.D.G., known for its snug booths and pine-panelled ambiance, and touches on the historical Laurier BBQ, though it omits its brief association with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
The rise of major chains like St-Hubert BBQ is noted, emphasizing their role in popularizing rotisserie chicken across the region. Additionally, the Times explores the Portuguese influence on Montreal's chicken culture, giving nods to beloved Plateau-Mont-Royal staples Coco Rico and Romados, which have contributed to the city's diverse food tapestry.
Local and International Reactions to the Praise
Montrealers have responded enthusiastically to the New York Times article. Harley Finkelstein, president of Shopify, expressed his pride on social media, stating, "Montreal has the best food scene in the world right now. And it's not even close." He specifically praised Rôtisserie La Lune as one of his favorite restaurants globally. Leslie Roberts, a Montreal city councillor for Peter-McGill, echoed this sentiment, remarking on the exceptional quality of rotisserie chicken in the city.
American commentators also weighed in, with Rebecca Alter from Vulture noting, "It really is a rotisserie culture up there." She highlighted the strong Portuguese cultural influences and the absence of direct American equivalents to chains like Swiss Chalet and St-Hubert, distinguishing Montreal's offerings from places like Boston Market.
Recognition and Accolades for Montreal's Culinary Excellence
Rôtisserie La Lune's acclaim is further bolstered by its Bib Gourmand recommendation in the inaugural Michelin Guide for Quebec and Montreal last year. This award recognizes restaurants that offer "good quality, good value," underscoring the establishment's commitment to excellence in Montreal's competitive food scene.
The New York Times feature not only celebrates specific restaurants but also paints a broader picture of Montreal as a hub for culinary innovation and tradition. By framing the city's rotisserie chicken as a cultural phenomenon, the article reinforces Montreal's reputation as a destination for food enthusiasts worldwide, where local flavors and international influences converge to create a unique dining experience.
