Introduction
In recent times, there has been an increase in the popularity of farm-to-table dining as more people seek out locally produced, fresh foods for their meals. Farm-to-table fast food is being served at Maynard, a fast-casual vegetarian and vegan restaurant in the Plateau neighborhood of Montreal, which is pushing this idea to the limit. With refined plant-based comfort food, Maynard is reinventing the fast-food experience under the direction of chef Brodie Somerville, who brings years of experience from Michelin-starred restaurants.
Not your typical burger joint
When you think of a fast-food burger joint, what comes to mind? Greasy patties, soggy buns, and lackluster toppings? Brodie Somerville, the mastermind behind Maynard, wanted to flip that script entirely. Maynard isn't just another run-of-the-mill burger joint—it's a culinary adventure that challenges everything you thought you knew about fast food.
Somerville, a vegetarian since 2008, grew tired of the lack of options available to him when it came to quick and convenient meals. While vegetarian and vegan offerings have improved over the years, they're still often relegated to the sidelines, with few options that truly stand out. Somerville saw an opportunity to change that narrative by creating a fast-casual restaurant that focused on quality plant-based comfort food.
The result? A menu that redefines what fast food can be. Instead of bland veggie burgers and limp fries, Maynard offers dishes like the Impossible Smash Burger and Tofu Nashville that are as innovative as they are delicious. These dishes are a testament to Somerville's commitment to pushing the boundaries of plant-based cuisine and offering something truly unique to his customers.
But it's not just about the food at Maynard—it's also about the experience. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere makes you feel like you're stepping into a friend's kitchen, rather than a traditional fast-food joint. This sense of hospitality is at the core of Maynard's philosophy, and it's what sets them apart from the competition.
So, if you're tired of the same old fast-food options and crave something different, why not give Maynard a try? With its innovative menu and welcoming atmosphere, it's sure to be a dining experience unlike any other.
High quality ingredients
At Maynard, the commitment to quality is evident in every dish. Chef Brodie Somerville is passionate about using the freshest, highest quality ingredients available, and it shows in the restaurant's farm-to-table approach.
Maynard is the first vegan restaurant to be recognized under the Aliments du Québec Au menu Program, with more than 80% of all produce and products used coming from within 75 kilometers of the restaurant. This dedication to sourcing locally not only ensures that the ingredients are fresh but also supports local farmers and producers.
The farm-to-table movement has gained widespread acclaim for its focus on sustainability and supporting local communities. By sourcing ingredients locally, Maynard reduces its carbon footprint and helps to build a more sustainable food system.
In addition to sourcing locally, Maynard takes pride in making as much as possible in-house. From savory sauces to hand-cut fries, everything is made with care and attention to detail. This commitment to quality extends to every aspect of the restaurant, ensuring that every dish that comes out of the kitchen is of the highest standard.
Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or just someone who appreciates good food, Maynard's dedication to quality ingredients is sure to impress. So, if you're looking for a dining experience that combines great food with a commitment to sustainability, look no further than Maynard.
A juggling act
Sourcing fresh, local ingredients is a cornerstone of Maynard's philosophy, but it's not without its challenges. Chef Brodie Somerville often finds himself juggling multiple suppliers for a single ingredient, ensuring that he can always provide the freshest ingredients to his customers.
The menu at Maynard is subject to change based on ingredient availability, with Somerville constantly striving to put the best product on the plate every day. This flexibility allows Maynard to showcase seasonal ingredients and support local farmers, but it also means that Somerville must be prepared to adapt at a moment's notice.
Despite these challenges, Somerville embraces the farm-to-table model, knowing that it ultimately leads to a better dining experience for his customers. By sourcing locally, Maynard not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also supports the local economy and reduces its carbon footprint.
To simplify operations, Somerville uses Lightspeed's one-stop restaurant management platform to keep track of suppliers, streamline ordering and payment processes, and get out-of-the-box delivery integrations. This allows Somerville to focus on what he does best—creating delicious, innovative dishes that highlight the best of what local farms have to offer.
Just come on home
Maynard isn't just a restaurant—it's a home away from home. Named after Somerville's hometown, Maynard embodies the warmth and hospitality of a Southern diner mixed with the comfort of your grandma's kitchen.
From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted with a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. The menu reflects this sense of home, offering a mix of traditional brunch fare and innovative plant-based twists on classic comfort foods.
One of the hallmarks of Maynard is its commitment to making as much as possible in-house. From savory sauces to hand-cut fries, everything is made with care and attention to detail. This dedication to quality extends to every aspect of the restaurant, ensuring that every dish is a labor of love.
Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast burrito or a plate of crispy wings, Maynard has something for everyone. The restaurant's Southern-inspired menu is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates, making it a favorite among vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike.
But Maynard is more than just a place to eat—it's a community hub where friends and family can come together to enjoy great food and good company. So, the next time you're in Montreal's Plateau neighborhood, why not stop by Maynard and experience the comfort and hospitality for yourself?
Conclusion
In conclusion, Maynard is more than just a restaurant—it's a culinary experience that celebrates quality, sustainability, and community. Led by Chef Brodie Somerville, Maynard's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients sets it apart in the fast-casual dining landscape.
By sourcing ingredients locally, Maynard not only ensures the highest quality dishes but also supports local farmers and reduces its carbon footprint. This dedication to sustainability is paired with a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home.
From innovative plant-based dishes like the Impossible Smash Burger to classic comfort foods with a vegan twist, Maynard offers something for everyone. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or just someone who appreciates good food, Maynard's menu is sure to delight your taste buds.
So, the next time you're craving a delicious meal that's good for you and the planet, why not pay a visit to Maynard? With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality, it's more than just a restaurant—it's a destination.
