Since I was a young child, I have eaten at McDonald’s more times than I can remember. But not until October 15 had I experienced a behind the scenes tour of one of the restaurants.
Franchisee Pierre Brunet with Steven Erdelyim Mayor Housefather, myself, Allan J. Levine and Ruth Kovac.
The occasion was a small ceremony for the brand new McDonald’s which just opened at the Côte Saint-Luc Shopping Centre. It is a beautiful facility, spread over two floors with a drive through and open 24 hours a day. The place is also in the best hands possible with franchisee Pierre Brunet, certainly no stranger to our community. ‘Mr. Brunet owned the McDonald’s on Côte Saint-Luc Road and Walkley (actually considered NDG), which closed about 18 years ago. Among his current 16 franchises are the Quartier Cavendish food court, St. Jacques Street West, Queen Mary Road, Côte des Neiges and Linton, Beaumont in TMR, Marché Central, three in LaSalle and one Verdun.
Mayor Anthony Housefather was on hand to congratulate Mr. Brunet alongside five members of council: myself, Steven Erdelyi, Ruth Kovac, Dida Berku and Allan J. Levine. Manager Don Martin brought us right behind the counter and into the kitchen. Councillors Levine and Berku could not resist the temptation of the smell of french fries. Councillor Levine (left) scooped up a medium order himself while (below) Councillor Berku requested a small one. We were joined by some of the CSL residents whose homes are right next to the facility.
I was also happy to see Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Brody on hand. The two longtime residents of Sir Walter Scott Avenue in District 2 have been close friends with Mr. Brunet for years.
Mr. Brunet said that without any bells and whistles, he opened the doors to the new franchise and business is already at the level he expected. When inside check out the neat digital me menus.
“I am very happy to be back in this neighbourhood,” said Mr. Brunet.
With the neighbours.
With the Brodys.
Prepping the food in the kitchen.