Harley Finkelstein: Entrepreneur, Foodie, and Foodie Entrepreneur

In his conversation with Tastet, Harley shared his and his wife Lindsay Taub’s deep appreciation for Montreal’s rich gastronomic landscape. Since relocating to the city, the couple has immersed themselves in its diverse food culture, frequenting a variety of local establishments. Their favorites include:

• Kitano Shokudo: A cozy Japanese haven where they admire Chef Hiroshi’s authentic dishes.
• Otto Yakitori: Celebrated for its fun atmosphere and delicious skewers.
• Sushi Nishinokaze: Hailed by the couple as one of the best dining experiences they’ve ever had.
• Le Chien Fumant and Rôtisserie La Lune: French-inspired spots offering exceptional culinary delights.
• Joe Beef and Liverpool House: Iconic Montreal institutions known for their unique dining experiences.
• Tavern on the Square: A favorite even on a Monday, thanks to its fantastic vibe under Steve and Jon’s leadership.
• Gibbys St-Sauveur: Praised for its incredibly cozy ambiance, making it a comforting meal escape.
• Beba, Oncle Lee, and Kam Fung: Recognized for their distinctive and explosive flavors.
• Damas: Loved for its consistent quality, delicious dishes, and beautiful terrace.
• Bistro La Franquette: A standout neighborhood restaurant where the quality of the food speaks for itself.
• Café Gentile, Romies, and La Spada: New favorites offering inviting atmospheres and delightful menus.
• Olive et Gourmando: Lindsay’s preferred lunch spot, especially the new location at Royalmount, known for its casual yet gourmet vibe and delicious tofu noodle salad.
• Foxy: A hidden gem that impresses with its service, food quality, lively yet loungey atmosphere, and the best martini in town.

Their genuine enthusiasm for these establishments reflects a broader philosophy.

As Harley mentioned, they believe in going “where the poets, DJs, chefs, and artists are—that’s where real culture is.” For them, Montreal epitomizes this blend of creativity and diversity, making it a city they are proud to call home.

But Harley’s passion for food doesn’t stop at restaurant-hopping—he’s also in the business of taste. In 2021, he co-founded Firebelly Tea, a company dedicated to redefining how people experience tea. Alongside David Segal, the original founder of DavidsTea, Harley set out to create a modern, high-quality tea brand designed for entrepreneurs and creatives.

The idea was born out of necessity—Harley realized that his afternoon coffee habit was wrecking his sleep, so Segal introduced him to tea as a more sustainable energy source. From there, the duo crafted Firebelly, focusing on organic, full-leaf teas with no artificial flavors, along with sleek, well-designed teaware that fits the minimalist Shopify aesthetic. The brand’s mission? To make tea as cool, functional, and enjoyable as coffee—but without the crash.

Beyond their personal enjoyment, Harley and Lindsay’s active participation in the local food scene underscores their commitment to supporting and uplifting the community.

They invest their time and resources into exploring and endorsing local businesses, embodying a model of community engagement that resonates deeply with their entrepreneurial spirit.

In essence, Harley Finkelstein exemplifies how innovation and passion can transcend industries. His journey from leading a tech giant to championing local gastronomy and launching a modern tea brand illustrates a holistic approach to life and work, where professional success and personal passions intertwine harmoniously.

For Montrealers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike, Harley’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of community involvement and the joy of embracing diverse interests.

Whether through pioneering e-commerce solutions, savoring a meal at a cherished local spot, or revolutionizing the way people experience tea, Harley demonstrates that true fulfillment comes from connecting with and contributing to the world around us.