We sometimes find it hard to believe that humans rely so much on such a small creature. Indeed, without bees, the ecology would be drastically transformed, putting humans in jeopardy. Eating honey seemed like a really natural thing to do, and we never really questioned the influence of bees. Without them, the supply and diversity of fresh vegetables would be significantly reduced.

Little about our apiarist

We met Anicet more than two years ago while shooting for the book L'Apéro au Québec. He's an enticing character with an intriguing speech. We've never encountered somebody who is as concerned about the Earth, the ecosystem, and the current difficulties we face as he is. If you think Anicet simply cares about providing you with the best honey, think again. Personally, we believe his major purpose is to assist the biosphere in returning to "normal."

Anicet is not someone you can understand fully or know. He is and always will be a unique and mysterious beekeeper. He grew up surrounded by bees which explains how this setting feels like home to him. It's like coming home.

Bees forced him to travel the world, visit new locations, and live unique adventures that most people will never have. His eagerness to learn and achieve more is admirable. Anicet is dedicating every minute of his life to one crucial goal: helping bees to live beyond epochs. We could probably write an entire book about him and what he's doing, but let’s not go there for now.

Cantine Pollens & Nectars

We finally arrived in Ferme-Neuve, a lovely spot for a calm getaway with a view. Anicet constructed a one-of-a-kind restaurant adjacent to one of his favorite things, bees. You will eat local and fresh cuisine with a touch of je ne sais quoi and sip the most incredible Quebec booze choices. It's one of those "you have to be there to understand”.

The Cantine Pollens & Nectars is Miels d'Anicets' canteen and restaurant in Ferme-Neuve. Anne-Virginie Schmidt and Anicet Desrochers are "passionate about honey" and wanted to integrate the beekeeping and hosting industries. The canteen serves exceptional local cuisine sweetened with honey. Cantine Pollens & Nectars is both simple and extraordinary—and simply extraordinary! The venue is great for a memorable experience in good company, with what is on the plate, in the glass, the environment, and the landscape.

As described, "Cantine Pollens & Nectars is the reflection of its territory, its harvests and its artisans, a work philosophy that has been rooted in us for two generations." The space isn't notably spectacular, but it is sleek and well thought out.

We were delivered a delectable array of little appetisers, each one outstanding after the other. We can't tell you that every flavour is simple because they aren't. You will be impressed and surprised right up until the last bite. We finished with the one thing we had been looking forward to: a wood-fired pizza prepared by Anicet himself. The cherry on top.

Pollens & Nectars allows you to delve a little further into Anicet's world. You enjoy, connect with, and ultimately comprehend the concept of terroir.

Our Experience

The whole thing isn't glitzy or vintage, yet there's something that draws you in. Maybe it's simply bees and nature. Even the simplest things there taste like heaven. It's such a satisfying experience with nature and we get to admire some of the finest creatures like bees. They are what we normally don't have time to think about and are oblivious to their existence. It gives you time for some critical thinking and an appreciation of winged insects.

To encapsulate the idea, the environment would be dramatically altered without bees, putting humans in peril. This place will not only remind you of the value of something as small as a bee, but also of the efforts of individuals who are doing their best to maintain the biome on Earth.