The Monna Sisters open La Midinette in Saint-Jean-de-l’Île-d’Orléans

La Midinette marks a new page in the history of the priesthood of Saint-Jean-de-l’Île-d’Orléans, with the Monna Sisters opening this new gourmet restaurant on Thursday.

Cassis Monna & Filles’ fame extends beyond Elle d’Orleans. The liquor and many of their other products have been recognized several times, but this time, sisters Anne and Catherine Monna present us with a project of their own in what was formerly La Boulange.

“Catherine and I are entrepreneurs. We love challenges and new projects. Cassis is doing well as we grow. We still have many projects to come, but we dreamed of another place on the island. We wanted to create a completely different world. The opportunity arose when Dominic Brown called Katherine saying they wanted to sell company,” said Ann Mona.

“While visiting the place, I fell in love,” she added.

stop for visitors

In the heart of the village of Saint-Jean, right across from the church and a few steps from the beach, the Priest has long been a stop for visitors looking for a short break. A few owners have succeeded each other in the past, including chief Chocolats Favoris.

Since the Monna sisters acquired this unique venue, the place has come back to life with La Midinette, which defines itself as a “luxury bakery and refreshment bar”. Of course, there will be a sale of homemade bread, pastries, pizza and scones on site, but starting at noon, a small island- and beach-inspired menu will slowly take over simple dishes to share, accompanied by wine, cocktails, and mocktails.

This dream come true for the two sisters represents a million dollar investment.

“We have a lot of fun redefining this place, redesigning and reinventing the catering show. It’s a great playground,” continues Ann.

Rarity and Imagination

The two sisters set up an independent entity called Cassis Monna & Filles, where they continue to work with their father, Bernard, who is still active in the field.

Fortunately, they can count on the Cassis team to implement this new project. In the face of labor shortage, the family business must be creative.

It also acquired a residence near the house of Cassis Monna & Filles in Saint-Pierre-de-l’Île-d’Orléans to house the staff.

The company also provided them with a vehicle to facilitate travel between the two villages, which are separated by twenty kilometers.