While many visitors to Montreal focus on the downtown core during their stay, a subway ride to the east end could also prove interesting. There you’ll find a renewed and updated Plaza St-Hubert, the only commercial street in the city covered by a canopy, protecting shoppers against the elements. It was on my way to Librairie Racines that I stumbled upon Boutique Espace Urbain.

Espace Urbain is a store that sells afro and urban-inspired products; everything from clothing and jewelry to beauty products and art. They have over 120 local brands and unique products, many of which are handmade. The variety of items stood out to me and I liked the idea of the store being more of a space to support fledgling creators and promote their work than your typical mass-produced souvenirs which you so often find in these kinds of spaces. That said, Espace Urbain is still a great option when looking for that special gift for someone.