Embracing Winter in Canada: Montreal

Fresh Bagels at St Viateur

I have a bad habit of visiting Canada in the wintertime and although the weather conditions are not ideal (delayed flights anyone?), the locals are always such a joy. My favorite thing about visiting Canada when its freezing is that every local you meet will apologize for the weather! Now thats Canadian kindness at it's best.

The best thing about Montreal, other than the people, is the food! Oh my God! I was so lucky to have two amazing tour guides who understand my passion for scrumptious cuisine. If you have only one day in Montreal, I feel bad for you, but I am here to ensure that you have a delicious (and entertaining) time.

Food

First, stop by St. Viateur for a freshly made bagel. If you've only had bagels at Dunkin Donuts than you will be shocked to find that these bagels are chewier and don't fall apart as easily. I personally love my bagels with Lox and Cream Cheese. 

Next, lunch, if you happen to be there when it's open I definitely recommed grabbing a huge sandwich at Arthur's Nosh Bar. I was there soon after (Candian) Thankisgiving and they had a turkey burger that hit all the right notes.

Finally, no day is complete without a fine dinner. I love Middle-Eastern cuisine (duh!) and I still think about my dinner at Damas Restaurant. It can be hard to get a reservation and for good reason. The decor is very dark and mysterious and the food is divine.

To Do

You'll need something to do in between all that eating and an hour in Old Montreal combines history with the brisk walk you'll need to digest your breakfast. It is best to pre-download the "Montreal Histoires" app and set your phone up for your preferred route (based on length of time). You just hold up your phone at certain areas and you're magically transported to a time long ago. I loved this activity because it was very suitable for a lone traveller and easily customizable. 

If you're feeling a little chilly, it might be time to head to the Musee de Beaux-Arts. Its a large museum with lots to see especially more modern and contemporary works. They have a large section dedicated to furniture which I found especially interesting.

An art piece from the Musee de Beaux-Arts Montreal that shows the contrast between how Arabs are made to feel when they arrive to Canada and what they are told.

My favorite area in Montreal by far was Mile End. It's has a small artsy feel to it and as I walked around and window-shopped I just felt a strong calming vibe. There is a similar area in Toronto that I will write about in an upcoming post but there is just something about small eclectic Canadian shops that I really enjoy. I wouldn't call them boutiques because that seems too uncool for such a hip vibe. I especially loved the vintage stores in the area.

Seal it with some Sugar

Obviously, I could not let you go without recommemding a place to satisfy your sweet tooth. I am not a huge pie girl but my local friends swore up and down about Rockaberry and it did not disappoint.