September 21, 2022  •   7 min read


 

Montreal – Canada’s mini France. Stepping into the Old Port of Montreal is like transporting yourself to a quaint French town, where you truly feel like you’ve left North America and entered a beautiful historic village.

This city is known for its amazing food, gorgeous architecture, shopping, and fun nightlife. With an eclectic mix of cuisines and cultures, Montreal is the best place for a quick weekend getaway.

Find amazing croissants, Mont-Royal park, sustainable boutiques, and some of the best vegan sushi there is!

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W H E R E  T O  S T A Y

Hotel William Gray

This beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Montreal’s picturesque Old Port is the perfect balance between modern design and historic architecture. The two historic buildings that the hotel occupies date back to the 18th century. What’s remarkable is that of all the buildings remaining from the period before 1800, these two structures are rare in that their exterior appearance has been virtually unchanged. With a commitment to waste reduction, water conservation, energy saving. the prioritization of local food suppliers and fair-trade teas, Hotel William Gray is a hotel you can feel good about.

Address: 421 Rue Saint-Vincent

Photo courtesy of Hotel William Gray


 

W H E R E  T O  E A T

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Sushi Momo

For the plant-based sushi lovers (and meat-eaters alike), this upscale fusion restaurant is an absolute must. With a range of incredibly diverse and unique ingredients, each roll is a culinary piece of art. With an impressive tasting menu, your experience at Sushi Momo will most definitely make an impression. You’ll wonder how meatless sushi could possibly taste this amazing!

Address: 3609 Saint Denis St

Photo 1 Courtesy of Sushi Momo and Photo 2 Courtesy of Laura G. Diaz

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Loam

Stepping into Loam is like walking into a mini jungle oasis. With it’s lush greenery, moody atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, Loam completely reflects its name. With a menu made of meticulous seasonal products that have been carefully selected by local producers, Loam’s creative and vibrant fare make it a great place for brunch or dinner. 

Address: 400 Notre-Dame St

Photos Courtesy of Loam

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Olive et Gourmando

A bustling bakery and cafe that is as inventive as it is generous, Olive et Gourmando opened its doors in 1998 by two cooks who are purists when it comes to the ingredients they use. With a mission to make excellent daytime food, their take-out counter and restaurant alike boast truly incredible food. Don’t miss their authentically French pain au chocolat and croissants!

Address: 351 Saint-Paul St W

Photo 1 Courtesy of Olive et Gourmando

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Maman

This NYC-founded French cafe and restaurant now has a home in Toronto and Montreal, and for good reason! Maman serves family-inspired recipes, bringing childhood favourites from the South of France to life. Their delicious salads, warm quiche, signature chocolate chip cookies, and array of warm drinks makes it the perfect spot for a casual, yet elegant bite.

Address: 1524 Notre-Dame St W

Photos Courtesy of Maman

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Tommy Cafe

Tommy Cafe + Apéro is a neighbourhood coffee shop and bar, with three locations in Montreal. Tommy Cafe balances a blend of modern design, mid-century furniture and Victorian architecture. With lavender matcha lattes on the menu, freshly baked pastries to choose from, and gluten-free / vegan options available, it’s a great place for brunch or a quick bite.

Addresses: 200 Notre-Dame Street W | 151 Saint-Paul Street W | 1302 Ave du Mont-Royal E

Photos Courtesy of Tommy Cafe

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Cafe Olimpico

One of Montreal’s best kept secrets, Cafe Olimpico has three quiet locations across the city, specializing in authentic Italian coffee. Opening its doors in 1970, the original cafe was a place for gathering, and a place to enjoy respite from the world, with a simple cup of steaming, traditional coffee. It still carries the values with which it opened – family, community, authenticity, generosity – and continues to be a place for quiet reflection and lively conversation.

Address: 124 Rue Saint–Viateur O | 419 Rue Saint-Vincent | 1333 BD Robert-Bourassa 

Photos courtesy of Cafe Olimpico

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Other Notable Eateries:

St Viateur Bagels | Authentic Montreal Bagels
LOV | Gluten-Free & Vegan 
Mandy’s | Fresh Salads

 


 

W H E R E  T O  S H O P

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Naif

Naif is a beautiful shop dedicated to natural materials, sustainable practices, and that refined yet casual French-girl style. You can find everything from day dresses and skirts, to lounge pants and comfy sweaters here, all made with intention and excellent tailoring. As far as sustainable boutiques go, this one shouldn’t be missed!

Addresses: 227 St. Paul St W | 826 Mount Royal Ave E | 227 St Viateur St

Photos courtesy of Naif

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Maison Pepin

Maison Pepin is a lifestyle shop in the heart of Old Montreal, founded by siblings Lysanne and Paul Pepin. Lysanne being an artist, and Paul a photographer and graphic designer, their eye for design is evident in their highly curated selection of sustainably-made home goods. They aim to bring a refined, yet effortless look to your home, taking inspiration from Moroccan and Scandinavian influences. Here you’ll find a mix of linens, kitchenware, and curated vintage treasures, all displayed with natural elements woven in. Maison Pepin’s famous, gorgeous brick alleyway and attached cafe are not to be missed.

Address: 378 Saint-Paul St W

Photos courtesy of Maison Pepin

 
You might also like: The Sustainable Guide to Vancouver

Some of these eateries were in collaboration with Forage & Sustain. With stringent requirements, I only work with brands whose visions and ethos align with my own. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

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