Each winter, the world-famous Montréal en Lumière festival, also known as the Montreal High Lights Festival, transforms the Quartier des Spectacles into a vibrant stage for gastronomy. For its 27th edition, the event gathered renowned chefs and ambitious collaborations, presenting tasting menus shaped by international influence and local precision. The Diary of a Social Gal team experienced several menus at the festival and are thrilled to share highlights in this Glamada themed edition from three standouts: Maison Boulud, Marcus, and Rosélys. Each offered a distinct narrative rooted in technique, culture, and atmosphere.
Photo FABRICIO SERRANO
At Maison Boulud, chefs Daniel Boulud and Olivier Chaignon created a seven course menu blending French tradition with Japanese precision. Sea bass tartlet, beetroot with smoked eel, and a dune berry consommé with foie gras established depth and balance. A caviar and scallop bonbon highlighted contrast, followed by sablefish and beef with Bordelaise.
At Marcus, chefs Jason Morris and Mads Refslund presented an intimate ten course Chef’s Counter. Turnip with karasumi, oyster custard, and abalone showcased clarity and texture. Duck with hibiscus added warmth, while desserts featuring carrot and kumquat concluded the progression.
At Rosélys, chefs Fisun Ercan and Edgar Trudeau Ferrin explored Turkish-inspired cuisine. Mezes of fava, gourganes, and tempura kale introduced vibrant flavors. Manti, lamb tartare, and Arctic char with Québec beans carried the narrative forward. Kunefe and Turkish coffee mousse provided a refined conclusion.
These three tasting menus captured the spirit of Montréal en Lumière, where culinary artistry meets cultural dialogue and seasonal imagination in Montreal each winter season. Guests experienced precise plating, thoughtful pacing, and immersive dining rooms that reflected each chef’s vision. The festival continues to position Montreal as a leading destination for high level gastronomy and collaborative culinary creativIty during winter nights filled with light and fla-vour across the city’s dynamic dining scene.
Photos MELODIE DERDERIAN
For more on Montréal en Lumière, visit montrealenlumiere.com and follow @montrealenlumiere.
For Maison Boulud, visit maisonboulud.com and follow @maisonboulud.
For MARCUS, visit fourseasons.com/montreal/dining/restaurants/marcus-restaurant-and-terrace and follow@marcus_montreal. For Rosélys, visit restaurantroselys.com and follow @roselysmtl.