With the arrival of spring, the walls are coming down at the Jean-Talon and Atwater markets, whose open-air sections are welcoming horticulturists and farmers offering excellent Quebec-grown products. This year, in addition to the usual merchants, there will be eleven new companies active at Jean-Talon and Atwater, complementing the markets’ increasingly diverse offerings catering to Montrealers’ tastes.

Market regulars will also reconnect with their favourite producers in the busy markets, since the vast majority are returning. However, there are still a handful of outdoor stalls for rent in the three largest markets. Those interested in being part of the public markets’ vitality can apply here.

What’s new at Jean-Talon Market

Jean-Talon Market is welcoming several new companies that will enhance its ready-to-eat and dining options, alongside the familiar existing merchants.

• Le Pain dans les Voiles : this well-known Villeray bakery is opening a kiosk in the market, with bread and pastries on offer.
• La Croqueteria : authentic, handmade Spanish croquetas with a Montreal twist, made using traditional methods and a bechamel base.
• Panda Restaurant : this brand-new restaurant specializes in Asian fare such as takoyaki (Japanese octopus balls) made on-site, General Tao and bubble tea.
• Super Super : seasonings and condiments that transform simple dishes into gourmet meals, as well as a selection of ready-to-eat foods to enjoy at the market or at home.
• Distillerie Stadaconé : tasting of gins from this Limoilou distillery, as well as ready-to-drink alcoholic products.

These new businesses join the delicious tacos and cocktails served up by Mazorca MTL, already open for the season; and will be soon followed by the return of Aqua Mare’s fried calamari; the creative menu of Bouffe-moi; the authentic home cooking of Les Filles Fattoush (a finalist in the Laurier awards for Quebec gastronomy); the Boîte aux huîtres oyster bar; popsicles by Les Pops; and homemade products from Ferment, all of which are located in the market’s food-service zone. La Crêperie du Marché, Gourmands d’ici, Sushi Shop, Première Moisson and Balkani also have enticing options for an on-site snack or to take away for a picnic.

Two fast-growing businesses

• Les Délices de la Mer, Jean-Talon Market’s well-known purveyor of fish and seafood, is currently expanding; on September 1 it will open a new space with a bistro corner and terrasse. Salmon and cod pies, smoked salmon pizza, cod and halibut cakes, and clam chowder will be on the menu.
• Binette et filles is also expanding into a second space, making it a showcase for local producers thanks to new indoor plant and local flower varieties. Experienced horticulturists will be on-site to share their professional tips and tricks.

What’s new at Atwater Market

Atwater Market welcomes two new producers and two business reboots:

• Les Jardins Lakou : a variety of fresh Afro-Caribbean products such as okra, sweet potatoes, amaranth and collard greens grown in the Eastern Townships to discover or reconnect with the Afro-descendant culinary and agricultural traditions.
• Ferme M. Gauthier : a specialist in pure maple products and maple-based preparations such as barbecue sauces, marinades, candies and salad dressings.
• Margot Bar à jus : Margot is a young entrepreneur who is taking over the Atwater Market space previously occupied by Mangue & Melon. She will continue to offer healthy, fresh, vitamin-rich juices.
• Les Fermes ExotiQC : his horticulturist, formerly known as Les Serres Maedler, has a new name and new owner, and will continue to sell its specialty products at the market.

The ready-to-eat offerings of the Pôle des Saveurs open-air food court are all back and now open: Satay Brothers, Falafel Yoni, Léché, Ave Greene, Ca Lem, Boba Boba, Le Petit Sao, Chez Layla, Lucille’s, Aylwin Barbecue, along with the familiar storefronts of Pizza Mia, Première Moisson, Pasta Bella, Havre aux glaces, Sushi Shop et Le coin gourmand qu’on retrouve à travers le marché.

Summer at Maisonneuve Market and throughout the network

At Marché Maisonneuve, the horticulturists’ covered stands are overflowing with flowers and vegetable seedlings. The outdoor Bio Locaux stand, a favourite among the market’s regulars, will be back in its usual location starting in June. Bio Locaux sells certified-organic products from three farms: Ferme des Arpents roses, Terre fruitière and La Ferme Trotteuse, a co-op known for its use of horse-drawn ploughs.

Montreal’s public markets also include nine smaller neighbourhood and community markets, easily accessible and rooted in their communities, improving access to local and seasonal products. Some of them are already open for the season.