Pikolo Espresso Bar
16
3

Just off of Sherbrooke street, Pikolo is perfect for working and studying as it has free Wi-Fi. Open for two years now, this independent café is a welcome change from the coffee chains located virtually everywhere in the downtown area. Enjoy a warm ambiance, informed baristas passionate about coffee, and a musical playlist akin to your iPod.
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Clock Tower Beach
Bars
17
2

Living in a city definitely has its perks – nevertheless, it also has its drawbacks and it’s no secret that Montreal’s lack of beaches is a problem for locals come summertime. Based on the European trend of creating seaside paradise in the midst of a metropolis, Montreal’s Old Port now has its first urban beach.
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Local Experience
1 Hour Vintage Tour in a Vintage Convertible
Prices from
40
CAD
Duration
1 h
Languages
French, English
Kem CoBa
15
4

You can’t miss it – this Mile End staple attracts attention with its hot pink & neon green façade and a lineup made up of families, couples, and groups of friends. Run by a friendly husband and wife duo on the corner of Fairmount and Clark, Kem CoBa’s name is inspired by the co-owner’s niece and signifies “third auntie’s ice cream” in Vietnamese.
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Mount Royal
Things To Do
16
5

Credited for the origin of our city’s name, Mount Royal is the first attraction you’ll likely hear of when you arrive in Montreal. If you’re walking downtown, you will surely catch glimpses of it peeking through skyscrapers. While you may spot a handful of tourists visiting the mountain, it is still deemed a retreat for many city dwellers.
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Le Sainte-Élisabeth
Bars
23
6

Difficult to find as it is tucked in a narrow, graffitied alley on the corner of Sainte-Catherine street, Le Sainte-Élisabeth is the literal definition of a hole-in-the-wall. It may look rundown from the outside but once inside, you know you’ve found a gem. Those in the know party here and it is definitely where the locals gather.
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Bota Bota
Things To Do
27
7

Leave your worries at the dock as you step onto this floating spa. You’ll find panoramic views of the city while you drift on the St. Lawrence River (Bota Bota does not actually set sail, but is permanently anchored at the port’s quays). The multi-level boat-turned-spa is quite a sight as it is made up of modern decor with various decks and rooms.
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Le Cartet
13
4

Unbeknownst to most, Le Cartet is one of Montreal’s best brunch spots. It’s also one of the first places locals will direct you to if you want to discover Old Montreal through your stomach. Whether you wish to shop epicurean goods or have a light meal followed by a cup of illy coffee, this spot will satisfy both as it operates as a café & boutique.
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Cabaret Mado
Things To Do
10
3

If you don’t know who Mado Lamotte is, then you immediately need to experience one of her drag shows. Gracing us with icon status here in Quebec for over 25 years, Mado is the owner of her own celebrated cabaret and it’s all about drag queen glitz and glamour.
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Olive et Gourmando
18
6

Attracting everyone from regulars, to Old Montreal’s numerous visitors, this bakery turned café boasts fresh, local products. Their quirky decor will surely charm you. Always on and animated, Olive gets packed fairly quickly but takeout is an option if you’re on the go. Visit them for brunch, lunch paired with a glass of wine, coffee, and pastries.
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Imadake
Bars
10
4

This typical Japanese pub – or izakaya – is known for its animated atmosphere with staff dressed like anime characters serving up sake bombs and appetizer-style food made for sharing among friends. Their colourful wall murals, large communal wooden table in the centre, and action-packed open kitchen at the far back make up the vibrant decor.
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New City Gas
Things To Do
8
1

Located in Griffintown, New City Gas operates as a concert venue/nightclub for house music aficionados and welcomes DJs from all over the world. The complex’s namesake stems from its origins as this heritage building – that dates back to 1859 – was used to convert coal into gas to light up the city, which, in a way, it continues to do so today.
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La Sala Rosa
Bars
9
4

Referred to as the “The Red Room,” La Sala Rosa has become an institution in the local Spanish community. With traditional decor made up of bright red curtains and flamenco dancer frames adorning the walls, its intimate ambiance is amplified by the crimson hue emitted once candles are lit. Thursday nights are popular as they put on a flamenco show.
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Frank & Oak
Other
7
3

Where does the dapper Montrealer shop? Chez Frank & Oak, of course. Founded & based in Montreal, Frank & Oak is slowly becoming an international hit with features from the likes of GQ and Esquire. Despite recent expansions, their Montreal roots remain etched into each item they craft (rue Saint Viateur labels are added to their creations’ linings).
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Station 16
Things To Do
8
1

Station 16 is the latest destination for lovers of pop art, graffiti, and street art. With artworks visibly displayed on a white wall behind a large glass window, it is one of the current ventures involved in re-vamping the Main. The Montreal-based gallery features pieces from Europe and North America and also operates as a silkscreen print shop.
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Fou D'Ici
Other
9
2

What do you get when you pair gourmet goods with the perfect downtown location? You get Montreal’s urban food market. Nestled steps away from the Quartier des Spectacles, the upscale shop’s shelves are stocked with local and organic produce while sections are separated into: Pantry, bakery, cheese, fruits & vegetables, seafood, and butcher.
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