Culturally rich Montréal has something for everyone
BY SHAFQUAT ALI
The much-admired diversity of Montréal isn’t just about people, cultures and languages; it’s also about the spectacular scenery and amazing food. The stunning beauty of one of Canada’s most vibrant cities leaves one with an ever-lasting impression.
Whether you are an architecture buff, a jazzhead or art lover, or need a shot of espresso or a breath of fresh air in a green oasis in the heart of the city, Montréal has something for everyone.
When it comes to culinary experiences, the city offers a great mix of modern, innovative dining alongside rich traditional fare. Easily the largest French-speaking metropolis in Canada, Montréal is a cultural junction – and its wide array of food, from poutine to fine French cuisine, reflects that.
The city’s food scene is part of what draws visitors to Montréal, with many dishes spanning across several generations. Restaurants are always evolving, but many of the celebrated classics remain more or less
the same.
Though it may be over 125 years older than the country it calls home, Montréal dazzles with a new energy. Its restaurants draw discerning New Yorkers who will happily fly an hour and a half just to eat for a weekend.
The city is close and compact enough to tackle in a couple of days – be it on foot, along Old Montréal’s cobblestoned streets or in a quick taxi ride to the top of Mount Royal.
Whatever it is that you decide to do, do not miss this small wooded mountain. Located less than three miles from the St. Lawrence River, it stands just 764 feet above sea level. Mount Royal is a landmark that gave this city its name, according to local legend – “Mont-real.”
It also has been such an important part of the landscape that local regulations have forbidden any nearby buildings from rising above its highest point! For a perfect start to the day, head to Maison Christian Faure for some awesome coffee and croissant. Located in a 300-year-old historical building, the venue offers chic snacks and unique gifts with a French touch.
In the heart of the Little Italy, Jean Talon Market, one of the oldest public markets in Montréal and one of the largest open-air markets in Canada, is an unmissable Montréal experience for food lovers.
The market, which consists of small shopkeepers, bustles with activity year-round. You will find local fruit and vegetable growers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers and restaurateurs.
It’s hugely popular with locals and tourists, and if you are looking for old-world charm, there’s nothing better.
When I visited the market, it was maple season in full bloom (maple syrup may last for ever but the maple season is very short i.e. typically from mid-March to mid-April). Not surprisingly, the marketplace was overflowing with a wide variety maple products from maple syrups to toffees to dressings to popcorns to, yes, whiskey made with maple.
The Mile End is yet another spot you cannot miss. Full of reminders of its working-class, industrial past, this so-called ‘hipster capital of Canada’ will remind you of Brooklyn, New York.
It has been shaped by Greek communities and Jewish ones, and is known as a major arts hub. As one might expect, this artsy area offers great choice of food. Once here, go for bagels either at Fairmount or St-Viateur, but a special at Wilensky’s is arguably more of an experience.
If you are chocolate lover, another must-do thing is to take a chocolate tour and meet the most passionate people working with chocolate including bean-to-bar chocolate makers, retailers, chocolatiers or confectioners.
If you are not, try the Chinatown tour. This guided walking tour explores the evolution of Montréal’s Chinatown from its pre-Chinese beginnings to its current mix of people, food and businesses, giving one a taste of its best-kept culinary treasures.
Whether you are looking to explore nature in its parks or sample from its many cuisines, there’s plenty to fill any itinerary. If you ask my recommendation, I will say take it all in bit by bit – there’s always another chance to come back and see more.
