Montreal’s bustling St. Laurent street, also known as the Main, is home to a seemingly endless choice of diners, bars, venues, shops, and cafes. But, if you’re looking for a meal that is local, organic, free of animal products as well as delicious, make a beeline for Montreal’s first vegan restaurant: Aux Vivres. It is located at 4631, between Mount Royal and Villeneuve.

The restaurant prides itself on its ability to offer meals that are as healthy as they are tasty. Only the freshest ingredients are used and priority is given to local and seasonal produce. Aux-Vivres’ dishes are celebrated for their unexpected flavour combinations.

The menu boasts an enticing array of starters, bowls, sandwiches, soul food, ‘burgers’, and dessert. Salads come with a choice of house dressing, ginger dressing or wafu dressing. For beverages, Aux Vivres offers a selection of smoothies, which are naturally sweetened with agave syrup or dates. Other options include: fresh juices, drinks, and coffees. Sauces and sides may be ordered for a modest sum.

My go-to choice is the Chana, which is composed of chickpeas, potatoes, curry, chutney, and coriander. Its hardy ingredients will sit warmly, but not heavily, in one’s stomach. With that said, this wrap is especially satisfying to eat during Montreal’s chillier days.

Warm up with Aux Vivres’ vegan take on hot chocolate, another great choice for winter. This beverage is made with soy milk, which froths very easily. The result is smooth, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.

Finally, I’d highly recommend Aux-Vivres’ Uncheesecake. A local favorite, this dessert is made with Tofutti, soy, a graham crust, and a berry mix topping. The result is much lighter and softer than regular cheesecake, it almost melts right in your mouth. A must-have!

Marie-Pierre Michaud opened Aux Vivres in 1997. In 2001, Michael Makhan became a co-owner and a few years later, went on to have full ownership of the restaurant. Michael’s brother Liam was hired in 2005. Now, with both brothers in central management roles, the restaurant has blossomed into a true partnership.

Always, but most especially since its major expansion in 2005, Aux Vivres has experienced a growing clientele base, catering to a steady stream of newcomers and regulars. Visit today!

Aux Vivres may be contacted at: 514-842-3479.

Visit their official website at: http://www.auxvivres.com/en/