A neighbourhood itinerary stretching from Griffintown to Saint-Henri, where contemporary art, gastronomy and creativity meet.
I like starting the day at Café 2nd Gen with a vanilla matcha or a London Fog. Quietly tucked between Old Montreal and Griffintown, this understated café naturally encourages a slower pace. With its long wooden tables and calm atmosphere, it’s also one of my favourite places to settle in with my laptop for a few hours.
For contemporary art lovers, Fonderie Darling is essential. I enjoy discovering emerging and international artists inside this former industrial foundry transformed into a creative and exhibition space. Between the galleries, artist studios and the creative energy that fills the building, the space constantly invites experimentation and new perspectives.
With its raw, minimalist design, Le Serpent makes an impression the moment you walk in. I love sitting at the long bar with an espresso martini before settling in for their Italian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Don’t miss the sea bass starter followed by their beautifully executed risotto. A restaurant also recommended by the Michelin Guide.
Whenever I feel like lingering over a few mezze, I head to Shay. This lively and welcoming restaurant celebrates generous Lebanese cuisine filled with freshness and flavour. I especially enjoy the Kibbeh Nayeh, beet moutabbal, fried shrimp and sautéed oyster mushrooms, particularly on the terrace during summer.
I always enjoy returning to Vin Papillon for its warm, unpretentious atmosphere and coastal-inspired interior. Between the lively tables, seasonal shared plates and carefully selected natural wines, the restaurant invites you to slow down and stay awhile. A beautiful address for seafood lovers and long evenings around the table. Also recommended by the Michelin Guide.
To discover new voices in contemporary art, I often visit Tian Contemporain. This bright gallery showcases emerging Canadian, American and European artists in a calm and thoughtfully curated space. Every visit feels like stepping into a completely different world.
Hidden at the end of a graffiti-covered alleyway, Atwater Cocktail Club is one of my favourite places to end the evening. The neighbourhood bar is known as much for its intimate atmosphere as for its inventive cocktails. I especially recommend La Chichera, a mix of rum, guava, lime and coconut.
Barbara is one of those places that always feels good to gather with friends. The warm and lively atmosphere naturally lends itself to sharing: ricotta and wild honey focaccia, burrata, fried calamari and lemon sardines, all best enjoyed with a glass of Le Petit Négoce Pinot Noir.