Pony's guide to Plaza Saint-Hubert

Located on St-Hubert in Rosemont, Ausgang Plaza is a 4,500-square-foot multidisciplinary venue designed to host a wide range of cultural events that span DJ sets, live music, art exhibits, film screenings, and clothing line launches. It’s a versatile setting, to say the least, for creativity to flourish. With deep roots in Montreal’s vibrant arts scene, Ausgang Plaza is a key hub for community-driven cultural initiatives.

The venue fosters collaboration and diversity, offering an inclusive atmosphere that attracts a dynamic mix of attendees. Its relaxed and creative energy is complemented by a fashion-forward and bohemian crowd, making it a favourite for those seeking authentic and innovative experiences in the city.

Chez Ernest brings a unique blend of curiosity and conviviality to St-Hubert Plaza. Inspired by Renaissance cabinets of curiosities, this café-bar-resto doubles as a showcase for local artisans—nearly everything in the space is for sale, adding an unexpected layer to the experience— and performers.

By day, Chez Ernest offers coffee alongside a menu curated with neighbouring gourmet grocer Conserva. Expect small plates, or build-your-own charcuterie platters with dips, cheeses, and cured meats. By night, Chez Ernest features everything from absinthe served with ornate fountains to 16 Quebec microbrews on tap. Programming includes swing nights, open-mics, and live music fostering an atmosphere for community.

Marci's ode to 1960s Italian sports bars and New Jersey vibes was spearheaded by a team of serial restaurateurs including David Schmidt and Hideyuki Imaizumi, as well as sommelier Julien Patenaude, DJ and La Rama owner Kris Guilty, jack-of-all-trades Marc-André Patry, and chef Alex Geoffrion for whom this restaurant marks his debut.

Here, the menu is compact yet vibrant, featuring dishes like clams casino, an anchovy-rich Caesar salad, and notably crispy hybrid pizzas influenced by New York, New Haven, and New Jersey styles. The ambiance is enhanced by a carefully selected wine list and a dynamic sound system, making it more than just another pizza spot—it's a cultural homage with a twist.

Système is a new-gen spot in Montreal’s nightlife landscape, making waves at the crossroads of Little Italy, Villeray, and Petite-Patrie. Split between a sleek wine bar-inspired front room and an intimate backroom dancefloor, this multi-purpose space strikes a balance between social hangout and late-night destination. With its Studio 54-inspired lighting and sound equipment sourced from a retro mobile disco, the venue’s attention to detail captures a sense of nostalgia while staying refreshingly modern.

The space reflects the owners' years of experience in Montreal’s music scene, blending the lessons of loft parties with the professionalism of club culture. Fostering experimentation, Système's inviting DJs and performers to take risks while creating a welcoming space for guests to discover music and connect with others.

Conserva brings the best of gourmet shopping to the heart of Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie. Founded in 2018 by John Borros and Massimo Vincelli—both veterans of celebrated Montreal kitchens—the store combines high-quality local ingredients with the convenience of a neighbourhood grocer. Their vision? To make exceptional cooking accessible while maintaining mindful consumption.

The shop offers an impressive range of products: expertly prepared meats, Quebec cheeses, fresh pasta, organic produce, and an array of sauces and condiments. Sandwiches, roast chicken, and daily specials are ready to grab, alongside a thoughtful selection of local wines, beers, and ciders. Sweet tooths will find plenty to love, too, with their lineup of pies and pastries.

Designed by Pascal Vandame, the space is bright and inviting, with shelves of artisanal goods leading to a bustling workspace in the back. From its zero-waste policy to its chef-driven philosophy, Conserva sets a high bar for local grocery shopping.

Vinvinvin, a vibrant wine bar in La Petite-Patrie, opened in 2019, offers a playful yet sophisticated experience. Located in the former Brutus space on Beaubien Street East, this Nordic-inspired bar features an eclectic design with colorful tones and a central bar. Helmed by Marina De Figueiredo, Antonin Laporte, and Nikolas Da Fonseca, vinvinvin focuses on central and northern European wines, categorized by palate with unique labels like "punk" and "émotion." Complemented by a selection of local beers and small, shareable plates, vinvinvin is a delightful spot for wine enthusiasts seeking a fresh spots for even fresher wines.

Café La Bine in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie is a charming, family-run spot with a welcoming vibe and thoughtfully crafted offerings: Coffee breaks, relaxed meals, and productive afternoons.

The menu highlights locally sourced products, with standout options like creamy americanos finished with a touch of oat milk and flavourful vegan burritos—there are a lot of vegan options, actually—that hit the mark every time. Seasonal specials bring warmth to colder months, from comforting soups like pumpkin and squash to indulgent lattes in the fall.

Boustan’s Saint-Hubert Street location is a go-to spot on the Plaza. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling into a full spread, shawarma lovers will find all the classics—pitas, bowls, and salads—but the menu also stands out for its vegan options, like convincing shiitake mushroom ‘meat’. Outposts can be hit and miss, but this location captures everything that’s made Boustan a Montreal favourite since 1986.