celebrating april 1

The French celebrate April 1 with Poisson d’Avril, or April Fish. Traditionally, there is one practical joke:  French children surreptitiously tape a picture of a fish on their schoolmates’ backs - then yell “Poisson d’Avril” when the prank is discovered.

Far be it from me to play jokes on my friends.  But where in Montreal might we find some surprising fish?  

Think chocolate, seafood, art, and more.

Les Chocolats de Chloé celebrates fish all year long, with their homemade sardines pralineés - wonderfully detailed little fish packed with milk chocolate and hazelnut paste. These are one-person delicacies, and if truth be told, I bite off the head, then the tail, then work my way through the plump body. When I mentioned this to Chloé, she said: Just like a kid.

546 Rue Duluth Est
(514) 849-5550

Chocolats Privilège is a rather serious place - so I was surprised this weekend to see that they had lots of fat, jolly, dark chocolate molded fish, from petit (gone in a few bites, but still bigger than Chloé’s) to gros (meant to be shared, or savored over the course of a week.) Wrapped in cellophane and tied with a bow, they make lovely gifts.

7070, rue Henri-Julien, at the south end of Jean Talon Market
(514)276-7070

Poisson Rouge is a comfortable and cozy BYOB, and the food, mostly fish and seafood, is creative, and delicious. Today’s specials (though not necessarily in honor of April 1), include wild sea bass, tuna, and scallops. The table d’hôte - 5 courses for $37 - is a good value. Which is why it’s always a good idea to reserve.

1201 rue Rachel Est, across from Parc Lafontaine
(514) 522-4876

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts has fish…where?

If you find one at the museum, or anywhere else in Montreal, let us know!

1380 Sherbrooke Street Ouest
(514)285-2000