Fairmount Bagel

Fairmount Bagel is a renowned bagel bakery located in the Mile End neighborhood of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Established in 1919, it is one of the oldest bagel shops in the city and is famous for its Montreal-style bagels.

History

Fairmount Bagel was founded by Isadore Shlafman, a Jewish immigrant from Poland. Shlafman brought with him traditional bagel-making techniques, which he adapted to create the unique Montreal-style bagel. The bakery originally opened on Fairmount Avenue, from which it derives its name. Over the years, Fairmount Bagel has become a staple in Montreal's culinary landscape, attracting both locals and tourists.

Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal-style bagels are distinct from their New York-style bagel counterparts. They are smaller, denser, and sweeter, with a larger hole in the center. The dough is boiled in honey-sweetened water before being baked in a wood-fired oven, which gives the bagels their characteristic flavor and texture. Common varieties include sesame seed, poppy seed, and cinnamon raisin.

Production Process

The production process at Fairmount Bagel remains largely traditional. The dough is hand-rolled, boiled in honey-sweetened water, and baked in a wood-fired oven. This method has been preserved to maintain the authenticity and quality of the bagels. The bakery operates 24 hours a day, ensuring that fresh bagels are always available.

Cultural Significance

Fairmount Bagel is not just a bakery; it is a cultural institution in Montreal. It has been featured in numerous food and travel publications and is often cited as a must-visit location in the city. The bakery has also played a role in the preservation of Jewish culinary traditions in Montreal.

Location

Fairmount Bagel is located at 74 Fairmount Avenue West in the Mile End neighborhood of Montreal. The area is known for its vibrant cultural scene and diverse population, making it a fitting home for this historic bakery.

See Also

• Montreal-style bagel
• St-Viateur Bagel
• Jewish cuisine
• Mile End, Montreal