“Ruelle verte” (link in French) or "green alley" is a local initiative that allows local residents in Montreal to submit projects in order to make their streets greener. Montreal is full of back alleys that connect backyards to other backyards. Cars can go, but it’s mostly used by kids and local wild animals as a playground. By applying to this program the local residents agree to make this part of the street more pedestrian, greener and simply more human. If you walk or cycle in the city, you will encounter this sign many times.
Recently, an artist couple, Melsa Montagne et Nicolas Des Ormeaux did turn their back alley into a "ruelle verte" called “le raccourci” (ie. the shortcut) in the Villeray - Saint Michel - Parc Extension part of the city. They did much more than add many flowers or old public transport furniture; they flourished it with art. Of course, walls have been painted by local artists but they have also set up an outdoor gallery where you can witness the work of more local artists. Being outdoors makes it perfect while waiting for the slow re-opening of the art galleries. And since you are there, you are only a few meters from a new park in Montreal called Frederik Back, also worth visiting.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Café Toranj" in Shelbrooke, Montreal, is a Persian café with eclectic decor. I can vouch for their saffron cake - and check out their latte!
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"Guido Molinari" in Montreal has everything going for it. It's an art space that always gets me thrilled whenever there's a new exhibition going on...
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Finish him! Me-style kick! Hadouken! Shoryuken! If you’re familiar with these phrases, odds are that you're a gamer, or at least played a video game or two in your life.
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My bowling career has taken a new turn in the winter of 2023 when my job started a bowling league this winter, in teams of 6 players and we meet twice a month at Quilles Moderne Inc.
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"Saint Sushi Bar" in Montreal is not a traditional Japanese sushi restaurant - rather, its focus is on playful, hiphop, 'gangsta' reinterpretations.
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"Tami nails" Montreal is my favorite nail art studio. The artists are precise, fast and it's well priced. In short, a girl's luxury that feels good!
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"Kahwa Café" Montreal is one of my favorite places for coffee or tea. There's often a new exhibition and it's a great place to work with the free wi-fi...
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"Sparrow" Montreal is a restaurant that's been around since 2009. What a place! The decor enchants me, delights me, everything pleases me greatly.
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Everything about "La Distributrice" Montreal is beautiful: from the wooden interior to the branding and packaging, this cubbyhole cafe has style!
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"Kouign Amann" Montreal Chocolate is a charming little outdated and colorful decor bakery, and we don't want it to change! Try their raspberry Danish.
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135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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