The Bagel Class

Discovering Montreal Bagels

Montreal bagels stand apart with their distinctive oval shape, wood-fired crispness, and subtle sweetness from honey-boiled dough. Unlike New York counterparts, they boast a chewier texture and denser crumb, rooted in the city's Jewish immigrant traditions from the early 20th century. At The Bagel Class, this heritage comes alive through practical instruction, transforming novices into confident bakers.

The Workshop Experience

Held in a second-floor studio within the historic Cadbury Lofts building in vibrant Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, the class unfolds in an intimate, home-like space. Participants gather around a central table, don aprons, and dive into hands-on steps: mixing high-gluten flour with malt and water, kneading to develop gluten strands, resting the dough, rolling into signature loops, boiling in honeyed water for shine and chew, topping with sesame, poppy, or everything mixes, then baking to golden perfection. Instructor Will Paquet shares pro tips on flour varieties, dough hydration, and home adaptations, ensuring every bagel succeeds.

Practical Details and Timing

Each 2-hour session accommodates small groups for personalized guidance. Fresh bagels emerge hot from the oven mid-class, paired with simple accompaniments. Take home uncooked dough balls or baked extras to recreate the magic. Classes operate Thursday through Sunday, 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm, aligning with weekend tourism peaks in this walkable neighborhood rich in cafes and street art.

Neighborhood Context

Nestled on Rue de Bordeaux in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, the studio sits amid Montreal's bohemian heart—think colorful murals, indie shops, and Mount Royal views nearby. Public transit via metro or bus is straightforward, though two flights of stairs preclude wheelchair access. The area buzzes with culinary energy, complementing the workshop as a tasty detour from falafel joints and poutine spots.

Why It Captivates

This isn't passive viewing; it's tactile joy—flour-dusted hands shaping edible souvenirs. Families, couples, and solo travelers bond over laughter and shared bites, leaving with recipes, skills, and a deeper appreciation for Montreal's food scene. Ideal for rainy days or cultural immersion, it distills the city's bagel lore into a memorable, repeatable ritual.