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.
Also if you like running, they have now a run club called LE CAFÉ D'APRÈS RUN CLUB, meeting point is Saturday morning 8:30am for a social run.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Trois Disques by Calder" in Montreal is one of the few remains of the 1967 Expo. Together with the others, like Habitat 67, it makes for a great bike ride...
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Their mission is to “help educate patrons on the brewing process & above all else, to brew quality, an independent beer that Montrealers can be proud of”.
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"Comptoir St-Jo" in an old building in Lachine, Montreal, has plenty of green spaces & a range of food options - I love the pistachio croissant!
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"Wishbone Art Gallery" is an oasis of freshness & gentleness in Old Montreal. It opened during the pandemic, and they're doing pretty well! Nice area too.
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"H8S Coffee Bar" is a laid-back cafe in Lachine, Montreal, is small, cozy and with an interesting decor. A great way to spend a Sunday morning!
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"Pikolo Espresso Bar" in Montreal is the place I go to for an afternoon escape from the office. I love it for all seasons. It looks like a coffee machine!
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"Cheap Thrills" in Montreal is a music store from the early '70s! If it looks chaotic on the outside, it's organised chaos inside, as a cool shop can be...
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"Summit Circle Lookout" amazing viewpoint on Montreal toward the East from Westmount, St-Henri, Verdun and more. I discovered it while jogging...
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"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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135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
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