Everyone in Montreal is familiar with the epic Dans la Rue organization, which was Founded by Father Emmett Johns (nicknamed Pops) in 1988. This grassroots, community-based organization works with street kids and at-risk youth aged 12 to 25. The philosophy of of the organization is to help without judgment into action by providing street kids with food, shelter and support through our outreach programs.

The main ‘vehicle’ of this organization the Van and its hotdogs. The Van roams the streets of Montreal, five nights a week from 8 p.m. until the wee hours of the morning providing food, hot drinks and toiletries to youths in need. The Van is often the first line of contact with many street kids. Back in the day when I was more of a rebel I had a few friends that were runaways living on the streets. Following these friend one night I ended up  inside the Van and was handed a hotdog that I refused. I just pretend to be bad but lived well in a house with parents who loved me. I felt guilty taking that hotdog from some else who really needed it. It was a humbling experience I never forgot.

I am so honored to be included in this year’s DE LA RUE AUX ÉTOILES event, an evening of friendly competition amongst some of the city’s current most talked about chefs. This delicious evening for a good cause will take place on September 27th. Each chef is coupled with a local food blogger. I have been matched with chef Benjamin Léonard at Bocata. It’s my first time so not sure what it will involve yet, maybe it will be my chance also to help out in the kitchen with a chef in this year’s theme: the Taco.

After all I did a good job when I made this Fish tortilla with a citrus & vanilla gastrique radish salsa 😉

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS:
BICE
Pintxo
Ferreira Café
Le Boucan
Bocata
BAXO
Tuck Shop
Taverne Gaspar
Le St-Urbain (dessert station) with Van Houtte Coffee

The evening will also include amazing street entertainment and groove rhythms, while enjoying the most scenic views of Montreal. All profits of this wonderful evening of haute street cuisine will support Dans la rue, an organization helping young people get off the streets.

COME SEE OUR GUEST CHEFS REINVENT THE TACO AND CAST YOUR VOTE FOR THE BEST TACO!

September 27th, 2012, 6pm
Montreal Science Centre – Le Belvédère
Ticket: $125 (receipt of $100), 10 tickets: $1,000 (receipt of $750)
Call 514-526-5222 to buy your tickets.