Unveiling the Culinary Delights of Climats: A Conversation with Chef Jean-Sebastien Guigère
In the heart of Time Out Market Montreal, a culinary gem awaits those seeking a taste of Quebec’s rich terroir blended with modern culinary techniques. Climats, the brainchild of the esteemed Chef Jean-Sebastien Guigère, introduces a brasserie concept that promises a delightful journey through the seasons and local produce, all with a touch of creativity and flair.
Jean-Sebastien Guigère, also known for his successes with Groupe h3 and La Cabane du Coureur, graciously shared his insights into the inspiration behind Climats and the philosophy that guides his culinary creations. According to him, the concept was born out of a desire to “bring reworked dishes from our roots to a wide audience. We implement our techniques and know-how while keeping our prices more than acceptable. The name Climats is derived from our cookbook (co-written with sommelier Hugo Duchesne), which respects both the seasons and local produce!”
The chef’s vision for Climats is not centered around gastronomy but embraces the essence of a true brasserie, making comfort food accessible to everyone. Guigère believes that each dish, regardless of style, should be executed to perfection, offering patrons a genuine and satisfying experience. He describes Climats as a place where “local dishes are well done, unpretentious, but how tasty.”
To delve deeper into the culinary philosophy of Climats, we explored the local ingredients and flavors that take center stage on the menu. Guigère points out the significance of Quebec’s maple syrup, locally sourced spices such as pepper from the Dunes, and aromatic fir, all of which contribute to the diverse and ever-evolving flavors. The menu, in true alignment with the seasons, ensures a dynamic and authentic representation of Quebec’s bounty.
The menu boasts a delightful array of dishes, showcasing the richness of local ingredients. The three-cheese mac’n’cheese with truffle crumble tempts the palate with its indulgent combination, while the halloumi tacos offer a fresh and savory experience. A standout creation is the duck confit burrito, generously adorned with maple cucumbers and creamed corn, infusing each bite with a harmonious blend of flavors. Giguère’s commitment to utilizing as many local products as possible adds a distinct Quebecois touch to Climats’ culinary offerings, creating a dining experience that is both contemporary and rooted in the region’s culinary heritage.
In response to the question of what visitors can expect from Climats, Guigère maintains that it’s all about providing a memorable experience through well-executed, local dishes. He emphasizes the commitment to delivering unpretentious yet incredibly tasty comfort food, a sentiment that echoes through every aspect of Climats’ culinary offerings. According to him, “Climats is not gastronomy, but a vision of a ‘brasserie,’ so comfort food is within everyone’s reach.”
As Jean-Sebastien Guigère extends his culinary expertise to Time Out Market Montreal, visitors are in for a treat. Climats beckons those ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure where the essence of Quebec’s flavors is skillfully woven into each delectable creation. So, if you’re ready to savor the essence of Quebec’s terroir in a cozy brasserie setting, make your way to Time Out Market Montreal and experience the culinary brilliance of Climats. You won’t be disappointed – it’s a journey worth taking.
Address
705 rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Montréal, H3B 4G5
Opening Hours
Monday – Wednesday: 11:30am to 9pm (Bar closes at 10pm)
Thursday – Saturday: 11:30am to 10pm (Bar closes at 12am)
Sunday: 11:30am to 6pm (Bar closes at 7pm)
Please note that heir bar remain open beyond kitchen closing time, which is something that we will definitely not complain about!
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Lifestyle columnist specializing in spirits, food, music and travel. For more than 8 years, she has been sharing her love for a luxurious lifestyle through articles published in Whisky Magazine, VICE, Nuvo and Dress To Kill.