Looking for ideas on how to start exploring Montreal? Do you like coffee? I’m guessing yes and that makes my article much easier to pursue… Zab Café is a coffee roaster from Montreal that has an interesting story, four locations, and good coffee. When I was working in the old port I used to go regularly to the Paquebot du Vieux, their location in this area, to get fresh air by taking a little walk to it, refilling my mug, and often ordering one of their delicious wraps from the menu as well. But what I loved the most, I think, was the turntable always playing music selected by the baristas, always an eclectic mix of old classics and new releases. I admit I have been there sometimes just to get a new playlist for my Spotify.
Since I changed jobs in 2022 I also changed some of my routines in the city and I used that to discover other locations. For example, when I decide to go visit the ArtMûr gallery I now stop at the latest coffee place they opened on St-Denis street between the subway station Beaubieu and Rosemont. It's small and smells of good coffee, ideal for a small break before continuing your city exploration.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Léché Desserts" in Montreal hides many promises behind its pink benches and brick building! I recommend getting donuts here and going to watch the trains.
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"Nonnina Panini and Gelato" in Montreal is a café that offers Italian snacks & desserts - get your chocolate & peanut butter tartelette and explore Lachine!
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There are bird spotters, trainspotters... and plane spotters - and this is where they meet in Montreal! Ready for some plane spotting in YUL?
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Most belvederes offer views from above - this one is different and offers views to Montreal's skyline!
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The "Montreal Olympic Park" is so big, you can never tell how close to it you are. Its retro-futuristic vibe reminds me of some kind of animal; a scorpion?
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The "Big Wheel" in Montreal is a surprise! It's big, it's fun, and it's a nice highlight to visit while exploring...
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"Belgo Visions" in Montreal is in the Belgo Building, an iconic old building in the center of the city with five floors, zillions of art pieces & galleries
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Ruelle Verte is a local initiative in Montreal for greener back alleys. One artist couple made their own even prettier, by flourishing it with art!
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"Belvédère Outremont" in Montreal is one of my favorite places to go jogging. It goes a bit uphill, but the view is just amazing, especially at sunset...
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"Drawn and Quarterly" in Montreal is now a world-famous bookstore specialized in classic and contemporary comics. Coming here, my addiction comes out...
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"Tennis Jeanne-Mance" in Montreal is one of the best places to get your game in the city. I think it's a very interesting and unique court to play...
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"Nouveau Palais" in Montreal is like an old diner. It doesn't look like much, but believe me they have great burgers, spätzle & desserts. People come back.
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135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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