HOW IT STARTED

Aux Vivres has grown since its humble beginnings, from a cozy little hole in the wall into a bustling, full-size restaurant on Montreal's Main. Marie-Pierre Michaud opened the first location on a sleepy Saint-Dominique street in 1997 to bring her concept of vegan nutrition to Montreal diners. Small and cozy, with fresh menu selections updated daily, Aux Vivres was an instant hit with neighbourhood locals.

Not long after opening, Michaud hired Michael Makhan as a cook in her kitchen. In 2001, he became a co-owner and a few years later, went on to assume full ownership of the restaurant. Michael's brother Liam joined the team during Aux Vivres's major expansion in 2005. While he initially came on as a designer and builder, he rapidly took on a more central management role. Now, four years later, there is no doubt that the restaurant has become a true partnership.

WHY WE DO IT

We believe in our food. We want to prove to vegans and non-vegans alike that eating healthy can be its own reward when the food tastes so good. We use only the freshest ingredients, giving priority to local and seasonal produce, to create surprising flavour combinations and unusual dishes that you won't find anywhere else.

THE PEOPLE WHO DO IT

At Aux Vivres, we draw real energy and inspiration from our team of talented, creative and friendly young Montréalers. Our employees, hailing from Quebec and abroad, are dedicated to making and serving high quality, creative meals in a warm, vibrant atmosphere.