Anne-Marie Withenshaw’s favourite things in Montreal

Café Gentile has long been a cornerstone of Montreal’s Italian dining scene, and its Westmount location carries forward a legacy built on decades of dedication. Established by Anthony Gentile Jr. in 2016, this offshoot brings the soul of the original 1959 café on Chabanel into a sleek, contemporary setting envisioned by designer Zébulon Perron. Think marble tables, green-and-white tile nods to the brand’s heritage, and a laminated armchair that once belonged to Nonna—part tribute, part charm.

By day, it’s the spot for classics like their famed chicken cutlet sandwich or refreshing granita-laden iced tea. By evening, the menu dives into southern Italian comfort food: pillowy gnocchi, ricotta-laden meatballs, and a standout eggplant parm that speaks of homemade love.

Add to that cocktails crafted by family talent and a wine list curated with precision, and it’s an experience every time here. It’s not cheap per se, but when quality sings this loud, you’re likely to forgive the cheque.

Café Bravo comes from the team behind the NDG restaurant Entre Deux, namely Marc Flynn, Félix Poirier, Alex Quintin, and graphic designer Guillaume Lavallée. Situation on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, this coffee shop doubles as a hub for audiophiles and coffee aficionados alike in a space that’s blending retro 70s flair with contemporary design.

Inside, you’ll find top-notch brews from local roasters Fantôme and P.S. Coffee, alongside a selection of comfort classics like grilled cheese and BLTs. The café’s striking orange accents and curated playlists nod to its roots in the Bravo record label, inviting passersby to browse vinyls, merch, and album accessories. While seating is limited, its vibe and eye-catching design make Café Bravo an essential pit stop.

Club Sportif MAA has been a staple in Montreal’s fitness scene since 1881, and it’s got the history to back it up. From its early days hosting Stanley Cup-winning hockey teams to producing Olympic champions, the MAA is a part of Canadian sports heritage. Its original Peel Street location has undergone a major facelift, offering everything from HIIT and spinning to yoga and Pilates. With luxury services like laundry and top-notch instructors, it’s always been about providing a premium experience in a historic home with cutting-edge facilities for fitness and community, ready to welcome the next generation of Montrealers.

“The best chefs and restaurants in the city under one roof”—that’s the guiding concept which built the original food hall from the Time Out Group in Lisbon, Portugal, and it’s this winning concept that’s created Montreal’s very own in the Centre Eaton de Montréal. It’s a 40,000-square-foot culinary and cultural destination with 16 food concepts, three bars, and a mocktail station for refreshments you need to try once in your lifetime.

In a bold move to energize Montreal’s downtown core, Japanese retailer UNIQLO opened its first Quebec location in the Eaton Centre at Ste-Catherine and University Streets. The 32,000-square-foot flagship store is a sprawling showcase of the brand’s style, functionality, and sustainability.

Its arrival couldn’t come at a more pivotal moment. As downtown businesses grappled with post-pandemic recovery and the city’s maze of construction projects, the store injects vitality into a beleaguered retail landscape. Shoppers will find the brand’s signature LifeWear collections—thermal HEATTECH, ultra-light down jackets, and versatile jeans—alongside local touches like a children’s reading area and local collaborations.

CF Carrefour Laval stands tall as one of the largest shopping malls in Quebec, with over 1.24 million square feet of retail space housed under a single floor. Located at the intersection of Autoroute 15 and Autoroute 440 in Laval’s Chomedey neighbourhood, this sprawling complex combines iconic features like fountains, gardens, and skylights with an impressive roster of stores (they shift from time to time like any mall, so we’ll spare naming names).

Since opening in 1974, Carrefour Laval has remained a step ahead, avoiding the decline of many traditional malls by evolving: The mall’s upscale food court offers an array of choices, while recent additions and the relocation of major brands highlight continued relevance.

Mount Royal is the beating heart of Montreal. This Quebec heritage site, shaped by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in 1876, offers year-round escapades on its 764-foot “mountain”. Divided across three summits—de la Croix, Westmount Summit, and Tiohtià:ke Otsira’kéhne—this iconic destination weaves history, nature, and recreation into an essential urban experience.

In winter, Mount Royal’s slopes transform into thrilling tobogganing trails, while its meandering paths remain accessible for those eager to hike through snow-dappled forests. Summer is when the park truly shines: Beaver Lake is perfect for barbecues and picnics, while the northern side comes alive with Tam-Tams, a weekly Sunday drum circle near the George-Étienne Cartier Monument that has drawn Montrealers for over four decades.

The park’s trails and lookouts cater to all explorers, from leisurely walkers to intrepid hikers seeking ever-changing city views. And for the more rugged adventurer? Stray from the beaten path to discover hidden plateaus and untouched wilderness—where possible, that is, as caretakers don’t want you trampling anything precious.

Whether you’re sledding, biking, jogging, or soaking in the sweeping vistas, Mount Royal remains an evergreen escape—a green lung breathing life into Montreal year after year.

Lafleur’s Hochelaga location carries the weight of decades of Quebec fast-food history. What started as a simple “voiture à patates” in LaSalle back in 1951 has since grown into a chain that’s cemented itself as part of Montreal’s roadside culture. Denis Vinet’s vision, rooted in a family dairy farm, evolved into a brand synonymous with steamies, fresh-cut fries, and unapologetically old-school poutine. The Hochelaga outpost stays true to the formula: no-frills counter service, golden fries prepared on-site, and hot dogs done the classic Quebec way. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best food experiences aren’t about reinvention—they’re about getting it right, time and time again.

Since 1927, Dunn’s Famous has been serving up Montreal smoked meat, and the Décarie location carries forward this history with its old-school deli vibes and diner-style charm. Known for its smoked meat sandwiches and variations thereof, Dunn’s offers the classic choices: lean, medium, or fatty cuts. Medium is the fan favourite, striking the perfect balance between tender and flavorful.

The menu here is packed with hearty Quebec classics—from poutine to Michigan hot dogs and smoked meat egg rolls. Don't overlook the house-made coleslaw and pickles, which regulars rave about as the best sides. Dunn’s Décarie is open late, making it an ideal stop after a night out, and offers free parking for easy access.

The McCord Stewart Museum offers a vibrant window into Montreal’s social history, capturing the city’s evolving identity through an impressive collection of 1.5 million artifacts. Located across from McGill University’s main campus, this mid-sized museum covers everything from fashion and textiles to photographs and decorative arts. Its crown jewel, the Notman Photographic Archives, offers a sweeping visual history of Montreal, while temporary exhibitions draw crowds year-round.

For those seeking a deeper dive, the museum’s extensive archives and historical walking tours provide immersive explorations of Montreal’s heritage. Don’t miss the seasonal Urban Forest, an outdoor space that brings artistically simulated nature to downtown Montreal each summer.

Perched on the northern slope of Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory dominates Montreal’s skyline with its towering 97-metre dome, one of the largest in the world. Completed in 1960, this Renaissance-style basilica is an architectural triumph and deeply spiritual destination, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike to its grand halls and serene gardens.

The Oratory’s history is intertwined with the legacy of Brother André Bessette (1845–1937), a humble monk said to possess miraculous healing powers. What began as a modest chapel in 1904 grew into Canada’s largest church thanks to his devotion and the faith of countless followers. Inside, rows of discarded crutches in the Votive Chapel stand as testimony to his reputation as a healer. Brother André’s tomb rests here, as does his heart, displayed in a museum after surviving Montreal’s infamous 1973 heart heist.

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Oratory is a treasure for sightseers. The basilica boasts stunning views of Montreal, accessible via 283 steps often climbed by religious pilgrims on their knees. The grounds feature meticulously designed gardens by Frederick Todd, with both French and English landscaping styles and 42 monumental sculptures. Visitors can also enjoy the carillon’s 56 bells and the Oratory Museum, known for its exquisite crèche collection.

For over 60 years, Boucherie Atlantique has been Montreal’s portal to authentic European flavours. Founded in 1963 by Wolfgang and Herta Lustig, Austrian and German immigrants, this family-run business offers an unmatched selection of German, Austrian, and Swiss specialties. Now spanning three generations, the Lustig/Vogel family continues to craft homemade sausages, bake traditional breads, and serve up nostalgia-inducing dishes in their deli, grocer, and butcher shop.

From homemade pretzel buns to schnitzels paired with sauerkraut, their prepared meals and daily lunch specials bring Old-World comfort to a bustling city. Craving elderberry jam, smoked salmon, or Ritter Sport chocolates? Their shelves are stocked with imported goods that transport you straight to Europe. Seasonal offerings, like plum-topped desserts in autumn, reflect the European tradition of eating with the seasons.

Spanning two islands in the Saint Lawrence River, Parc Jean-Drapeau is a landmark rich with history, culture, and year-round activity. Comprised of Île Sainte-Hélène and the man-made Île Notre-Dame, this expansive green space was home to Expo 67 and the 1976 Summer Olympics, and today remains a hub for festivals, outdoor adventures, and architectural relics and modern-day wonders.

The park’s attractions are as varied as its history. Music lovers flock to massive events like Osheaga and Piknic Électronik, while thrill-seekers can enjoy La Ronde, the Six Flags amusement park. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve draws Formula 1 fans for the Canadian Grand Prix, while serene spots like the Jean-Doré Beach or the lush flower gardens of Île Notre-Dame offer peaceful escapes. History buffs can explore the Victorian-era fort on Île Sainte-Hélène or admire Expo relics like the Biosphere, once the U.S. pavilion, and the monumental sculpture L’Homme by Alexander Calder.

With 25 kilometres of walking, biking, and skiing trails, the park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, and the landscape is alive with public art and views of the St. Lawrence. In winter, the Fête des Neiges transforms the park into a snowy wonderland of family-friendly fun. Named after visionary mayor Jean Drapeau, who spearheaded Expo 67, the park is a testament to Montreal’s ability to blend innovation, recreation, and natural beauty.

Olive et Gourmando, a fixture in Old Montreal since 1997, has mastered the art of comfort food with upscaled twists. Co-owners Dyan Solomon and Éric Girard have created a café that blends artisanal breads, rich pastries, and flavour-packed dishes that keep people coming back.

Popular items like the “poached egg on your face” panini or the house-made ricotta plate are available throughout the week, while weekend brunch highlights treats like brioche French toast with labneh and nut crumble. The space feels like a warm, inviting kitchen, with a cozy wooden interior and an irresistible pastry counter that’s always stocked.

Hidden on a quiet corner of Saint-Henri, Bernice is a heartfelt homage to family, tradition, and the simple joys of baking. Opened in August 2020 by Jami Liverman and his architect partner Carlos Miranda, this spot channels the warmth of Jami’s late grandmother, Bernice, into a slick place where baking and hospitality inspires every detail.

Bernice specializes in nostalgic treats that evoke childhood memories. Cookies, tiered cakes, and pastries fill the counter, ranging from the decadently rich s’mores cake with graham crumble and chocolate caramel fudge to a cappuccino cake layered with Tia Maria cream. Even the classics, like their carrot cake with lemon mascarpone frosting, are crafted with exceptional care.

The bakery’s inviting atmosphere, shaped by Carlos’ design, feels like stepping into a familiar kitchen where love and sweetness are baked into every bite. Alongside third-wave coffee and freshly baked breads from Guillaume, Bernice has quickly become a beloved spot for locals, families, and visitors alike.

The vibes are high when eating at this restaurant from Chuck Hughes. It’s an absolute parade of surf and turf served up with a service staff that knows how to have a good time.

Since 1975, Daou has been a cornerstone of the city, serving authentic Lebanese dishes crafted with care (and earning bragging rights from hosting Céline Dion’s wedding feast ain’t too shabby either). Founded by Alice and Nahmed Daou, this family-run institution now thrives under the stewardship of their daughters, continuing a legacy of homemade recipes that evoke the nostalgia of family kitchens.

The menu is a greatest-hits list of Lebanese classics: smoky baba ghanouj, zesty fattoush, delicately rolled yabrak, and grilled meats like tender filet mignon and perfectly seasoned kofta. For the adventurous, the kibbe nayyeh—a cross-hatched masterpiece of raw spiced lamb—is a must-try. Every dish reflects the meticulous attention to detail that has kept Daou a favourite for nearly 50 years.

The Marcel-Laurin location may appear unassuming, but inside, its charm comes from its retro yet elegant interior. Plates are served family-style, inviting diners to share and connect over a meal. Desserts like pistachio ice cream or kayatefs provide a sweet finale, and Lebanese wines or arak add a traditional touch.

Vesta is a trattoria that’s blended New York, Montreal, and Italy in a way only Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione could. This Villeray mainstay serves up pizzas with thick, crispy crusts and loads of character. Each pie lands somewhere between the classic New York slice and Quebec’s traditional “greasy” pizza, balancing tender cheese with a golden, almost-fried dough that can stand up to delivery—and even a next-day breakfast.

Inside, Ménard Dworkind’s design feels like a slice shop reimagined: sage walls, marble tables, and a centre bar bring both coziness and style to the room. There’s pasta too, where simple spaghettini arrives dressed in rich tomato sauce with an oversized meatball, for example.

Since it opened, Little Italy’s Gema Pizzeria has been a testament to the skill and passion of its founders Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione. Though opened as a casual sibling to their acclaimed spot Impasto, Gema has been a leading spot for pizza in its own right: The menu here offers a range of classic and creative pies, with the 1889—featuring fior di latte, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil—being a particular favorite among regulars. There’s quality in every bite and detail.

The decor, designed by Zébulon Perron, blends simplicity with rustic charm, creating a welcoming space for families and casual diners alike. Most ingredients are sourced locally, and the kitchen cures its own meats in-house. Stop by for both their signature pizzas or a frozen custard from the takeout window—perfect during a hot summer night in the neighbourhood.

Bar Mamie feels like stepping into your Northern French grandmother’s kitchen for an evening of exceptional wine and charcuterie. Found near Little Italy, this neighbourhood gem offers a comforting yet contemporary take on French culinary traditions, all inspired by owner Max Rosselin’s upbringing in a small French village.

The heart of Bar Mamie lies in its simplicity and conviviality. Generous boards of house-made charcuterie, perfectly paired cheeses, and nostalgic small plates like raclette and rillette take centre stage. The fare is unpretentious, relying on quality, seasonal ingredients to evoke the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals.

True to its name, Bar Mamie has a strong focus on wine, breaking down barriers with its approachable “à la verse” concept: drink more, pay less. With an ever-changing chalkboard menu of reds, whites, rosés, and skin-contact wines, alongside a secret list of rare finds for connoisseurs, there’s something for everyone.

The cozy interior, decorated with vintage touches and personal mementos from Max’s late grandmother, radiates charm, while the sunny summer terrace offers a prime spot to soak in the buzz of the area.

The iconic Ritz-Carlton Montreal’s in-house restaurant Maison Boulud is a beacon of haute cuisine, blending French tradition with global inspiration and local flair. Helmed by chef Daniel Boulud and brought to life by hand-picked executive chefs over the years, this refined yet approachable restaurant has become a cornerstone of Montreal’s culinary landscape since opening in 2012.

The menu evolves with the seasons, spotlighting Quebec’s finest ingredients while showcasing Boulud’s worldly influences, honed over decades in New York, Italy, and beyond. Signature dishes, like ris de veau, tartares, and pastas share the stage with indulgent desserts. Pair your meal with selections from a meticulously curated 600-bottle wine list, or explore cocktails during a chic 5 à 7 at the bar.

Designed by Japanese firm Super Potato, the space has understated luxury with natural woods, bronze accents, and a cozy central fireplace. In warmer months, the adjoining veranda provides a magical setting with views of the Ritz’s gardens and famous duck pond. For intimate gatherings, Maison Boulud offers private and semi-private dining rooms, perfect for celebrations or quiet business lunches.

I Am Pho has earned its reputation as a reliable chain of Vietnamese restaurants, bringing authentic flavours to multiple locations across Montreal. Known for its rich, aromatic broths and generous portions, this spot is a favourite for those craving hearty, no-frills comfort food.

The pho is the clear standout, with options ranging from the classic all-dressed bowl (featuring tendon, tripe, meatballs, and raw beef cooked in the broth) to simpler variations for every taste. Each bowl comes with fresh noodles, tender meat, and a deeply savoury broth that’s perfectly balanced and never greasy.

Beyond pho, the menu features favourites like crispy imperial rolls, grilled chicken vermicelli, and beef brochettes, each packed with bold, satisfying flavours. Pair your meal with Vietnamese iced coffee for the perfect finish.

Every Sunday, Griffintown's Mano Cornuto transforms into a haven of Italian tradition. Dive into a four-course feast that feels like home, yet surprises every time.

It's an unmatched culinary journey in Montreal: From fresh salads kissed with unique vinaigrettes to pasta dishes that sing with authenticity, and desserts that melt your heart. And, if you're in the know, the porchetta add-on is a must. Paired with curated wines and special cocktails, Sunday at Mano is more than a meal; it's an experience.

Mélisse is a bright, airy gem in Old Montreal—a space that looks like it was plucked straight from California. There’s nothing fussy about it, just elegance that flows naturally from the service to the plate. From artisanal drinks to an imaginative menu featuring open-faced sandwiches, breakfast casseroles, and cocktails that actually taste like something you’d want to drink, this spot has earned its glossy reputation.

Owners Caroline Desgagné and Salomé Médam have worked hard to cultivate a vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s sun-drenched kitchen. Designed by the LOVASI team, the décor is an exercise in effortless warmth. Think rustic wood beams, light pouring through massive windows, and a scattering of greenery.

But let’s not bury the lede here: the food. Chef Thomas Allain brings a sharp but relaxed touch to the menu. With a pedigree from Bouillon Bilk, you expect technique, but what you get is something more subtle—a stripped-back focus on seasonal ingredients and flavours that don’t try to outshine each other. Each dish feels personal, from crudo and house-made pastas to brunch with dishes like lemon brioche with sour cream and dill, tagliatelle carbonara, or a salmon puff pastry with poached egg, goat cheese, and pickled beets.

Since its debut in 2011, Nora Gray has remained a standout in Montreal’s dining scene, celebrated for its Southern Italian-inspired cuisine, impeccable wine selection, and warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s an intimate, wood-lined eatery that’s we’d call a hidden gem if its reputation as a destination for indulgent meals, romantic evenings, or post-event dinners near the Bell Centre didn’t precede it.

Co-founders Emma Cardarelli and Ryan Gray, veterans of Montreal’s iconic Liverpool House, built Nora Gray out of culinary passion and an obsession with detail. Now, under the leadership of new executive chef Dmetro Sinclair, the restaurant enters an exciting chapter.

The menu evolves constantly but expect expertly crafted pastas, thoughtfully prepared proteins, and vibrant seasonal vegetables. Highlights might include tender house-made ravioli, rustic pork chops with braised cabbage, or fresh crudo topped with creative garnishes. Pair these dishes with selections from the restaurant’s well-stocked wine cellar, emphasizing organic, natural, and biodynamic options.

In Saint-Henri, Elena emerges as a testament to Italian cuisine reimagined. Opened in early 2018 by the team behind Nora Gray, this spot pays homage to inspiring individuals like Elena Pantaleoni, whose spirit infuses the establishment’s warm, unpretentious hospitality. It integrates seamlessly into the neighborhood, reflecting its evolution with a vibrant, inviting space designed by Kyle Adams Goforth. The menu, crafted by Emma Cardarelli and Janice Tiefenbach, showcases dynamic iterations of Italian classics—from artisanal pizzas to homemade pastas, all complemented by Ryan Gray’s meticulously curated natural wine list. This new culinary landmark not only promises exquisite dishes but also embodies a modern trattoria's soul, where every detail underscores a commitment to quality and community.