Fresh made pasta using locally sourced flour, a revitalizing juice bar, and the emphasis on baked goods and espresso can now be found at Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport with the addition of Bistrot – a European-influenced atmosphere, where multiple local purveyors are used, making it the ideal place for lovers of exceptional, quality food.
The Bistrot concept began in Italy and grew in success throughout Europe with 12 current locations, with 20 more slated for 2017, and now lands in North America with two locations at Montréal–Trudeau Airport's Post-Security Departures Area near Gate 48 and another location near Gate 59. HMSHost, Autogrill, and Aéroports de Montréal executives celebrated the grand opening of the first North American locations for this award-winning concept at Montréal–Trudeau Airport.
"We are delighted to be adding this outstanding international banner to our growing and increasingly diverse list of commercial offerings," said Philippe Rainville, president and chief executive officer of Aéroports de Montréal. "Our goal is to offer a wide-range of options to our passengers, with a balanced mix of local and international brands. Not only are these the first Bistrot locations in North America, but they will be the first at Montréal-Trudeau to offer fresh pasta, further meeting our customers' needs!"
What makes Bistrot unique is its international approach and an intense passion for good, clean, and fair artisanal products that enhance the regional ingredients and recipes created. Developed in partnership with Pollenzo University of Gastronomic Sciences and HMSHost's parent company, Autogrill Group, Bistrot's layout is reminiscent of a welcoming urban-type market that is designed to showcase multiple food stations through a large bakery component, a bounty of street food fare, a live pasta station, and a world class café component that appeal to Montréal-Trudeau Airport's diverse, global travellers.
"Born out of the Italian heritage for exceptional quality ingredients and flavours, Bistrot Montréal-Trudeau bolsters the airport's selection of world-class dining and invites travellers to enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation and excellent cuisine before their flight," said HMSHost President and CEO Steve Johnson. "We are thrilled to bring Bistrot's first location outside of Europe here to Montréal–Trudeau Airport, in partnership with Aéroports de Montréal and our parent company Autogrill."
The Bistrot menu is a virtual gallery of local purveyors: Alfred Le Fermier Cheese; Hector Larivée for fruit and vegetables used in the daily juice selections; Moulins de Soulanges which provides environmentally friendly grain for the fresh pasta; and Premiére Moisson for our sourdough and daily pastry selection. Ethically sourced ingredients is a brand attribute that adds colour and an experience of flavours for travellers.
Travellers can start their day with a fair-trade espresso, cappuccino or latte, alongside a beautiful croissant aux amandes (almond croissant), bagel fromage á la crème, saumon et aneth (salmon and dill cream cheese bagel), or seasonal fruits. Travellers can also savour robust options such as the Panini Caprese Au Prosciutto or the Sandwich Au Smoked Meat Du Bistrot, bringing in the local traditional favourite.
Bistrot features pasta made fresh, in-house with crème de parmesan or a house-made arrabbiata sauce. Plates can be created selecting from an assortment of proteins, such as Saucisse Paysanne or La Escalope de Poulet, and accompanied by grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.
Light snacks such as local cheese and charcuterie platters are available, along with soup options. To accompany their meal, travellers can choose from bottled beers and wines, as well as an assortment of desserts. For relaxation before their journey, travellers are encouraged to enjoy the comfortable common seating and lounge area, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the tarmac.
Walking into a Bistrot is like entering a welcoming traditional urban market, a refined yet familiar environment home to ancient craft expressed through the skilful hands of authentic artisans of tastes. The décor is outfitted in reclaimed furnishings that emphasize the recycled materials. Post-industrial elements include reclaimed wood, metal piping, and a selection of eco-friendly chairs and soft seating. Guests can be educated on the brand story through intricate wall murals and designs.
Taking Autogrill's award-winning Bistrot Centrale in Milan, Italy, Bistrot Montréal-Trudeau captures the design and culinary elements that made its forbearer such a resounding success among hungry travellers seeking quality cuisine options. With this opening of Bistrot and a smaller version by Gate 59 at Montréal-Trudeau Airport, there are now more than 14 Bistrot locations throughout Europe and Canada.
