Guillaume Completes Magnificent Bakery Expansion in Mile End

Major news for fans of Boulangerie Guillaume today. The popular artisanal Mile End bakery revealed its newly-completed expansion to the public for the first time. Guillaume now occupies the space formerly held by the defunct La Cucina, at 5134 Saint-Laurent. The redesign of the ex-restaurant was undertaken by L. McComber architecture, with assistance by Menuiserie 1/32, and others. "We will expand soon, hopefully by the end of spring," bakery co-owner Guillaume Vaillant remarked in January. "The project will extend in multiple phases because we don't have a partner, and [are operating] with a tiny budget. Still, it's gonna be great for our customers, employees, and for the neighbourhood."

Great, for a number of reasons. Guillaume, whether at its original location on Fairmount Est, or on Saint-Laurent, was never the roomiest of bakeries to begin with. That's no longer an issue for customers, most of whom will undoubtedly be relieved not to have to jockey for position in line any longer, or, worse, suffer outside on cold winter days for a baguette and some croissants. The newer digs will also allow the bakery to play around, and perhaps expand its menu. Hybrid artisanal bakery/restaurants are enjoying a moment in Montreal, what with the likes of Hof Kelsten, La Bête à Pain, and more. Good to see a bigger, better Guillaume jump into the fray.

[Image credit: L. McComber architecture]

All Guillaume now [Photo credit: Google Street View]