Noah CôtéWe uncovered the top hidden gems in Montreal you need to discover
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a local in Montreal? Not just any local, but the kind who knows the password to the secret bars, the shortcuts to the best vintage stores, and the hidden parks where time seems to stand still.
Well, wonder no more. I’m about to make you an honorary Montrealer, and trust me, you’re gonna love it. This is your all-access pass to a world of hidden delights that will change the way you see this city!
Eateries and cafés
Bernie Beigne
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Location: 23 Rue Bernard O, Montréal, QC H2T 2J6, Canada
Contact: +1 514-270-5762
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: $
Bernie Beigne is Montreal’s not-so-secret sweet escape, churning out over 20 varieties of drool-worthy doughnuts daily. The classic yeast doughnuts glazed to perfection are a must-try, but the whimsical Froot Loops and Oreo-topped creations are equally tempting.
At $1.50 a pop, indulging your sweet tooth won’t break the bank. But Bernie Beigne offers more than tasty treats. Owner Dean, a culinary school grad, infuses his passion for simple, feel-good food into every doughnut.
It’s no wonder this local treasure has captured the hearts of locals and celebrities alike, with Blake Lively even declaring it “her entire personality”.
Cheskie’s
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Location: 359 Rue Bernard O, Montréal, QC H2V 1T6, Canada
Contact: +1 514-271-2253
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Pricing: $
The beloved kosher bakery on Bernard Street, Cheskie’s is a carb-lover’s paradise. While their divine chocolate babka is legendary, don’t sleep on their cheese crowns, rugelach, and black-and-white cookies – these treats have Montrealers lining up for a taste.
They’re also a cultural melting pot where Hasidic bubbies and skateboard kids share a love for sweet, doughy goodness. The Brooklyn-style bakery buzzes with energy, and though lines may form, the quick service and heavenly reward make the wait worthwhile.
Baristello & Co.
Location: 709B Rue Jarry E, Montréal, QC H2P 1W2, Canada
Contact: +1 514-272-2113
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday – 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Pricing: $
Baristello & Co is the café equivalent of finding a $20 bill in your old jeans—unexpected, delightful, and something you want to brag about. This gem prides itself on crafted blends inspired by Italian coffee traditions.
Each cup, whether a perfectly balanced cappuccino or a rich and creamy latte, is a testament to their passion for coffee. Plus the menu features fresh sandwiches and delectable focaccia, which perfectly complements their coffee offerings.
Gibeau Orange Julep
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Location: 7700 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H4P 2H4, Canada
Contact: +1 514-738-7486
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 AM
Pricing: $
Gibeau Orange Julep isn’t exactly “hidden”, considering it’s a giant orange sphere that dwarfs everything around it. But it’s a Montreal gem nonetheless, a kitschy landmark that’s been serving up its signature frothy orange drink and greasy spoon delights since the 1930s.
Set foot inside and you’ll find yourself in a time capsule of classic Quebec fast food. You can sip the famous orange julep, a unique blend of orange juice, powdered milk, pectin, and vanilla extract while indulging in poutine or steamies.
On summer nights, this place even transforms into a retro car show, where classic vehicles line up like chrome-plated citrus soldiers.
Gardens and green spaces
Sentier Urbain
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Location: 1710 Rue Beaudry, Montréal, QC H2L 3E7, Canada
Contact: +1 514-521-9292
Sentier Urbain goes beyond aesthetics by breathing life into the city’s urban landscape. This not-for-profit organisation has spent over 25 years transforming neglected spaces into vibrant green havens.
Their network of community gardens and green spaces not only add a touch of beauty to the city but also serve as educational hubs and vital environmental resources. Visit them when you need a cool place to take a deep breath and possibly chat with locals.
Floralies Gardens
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Location: 1 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montréal, QC H3C 1A9, Canada
Contact: +1 514-872-6120
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Floralies Gardens is a living legacy of the 1980 Floralies Internationales de Montréal, a testament to the city’s passion for horticulture. This enchanting oasis on Île Notre Dame is an ever-evolving canvas of seasonal beauty – but like most gardens, is really best in spring and summer.
Meticulously curated flowerbeds, towering trees, and charming shrubs. You can’t ask for more if you want a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful moment of solitude.
And hey, lovebirds: the gardens are great for quiet dates too.
Governor’s Garden at Château Ramezay
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Location: 280 Notre-Dame St. East, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1C5, Canada
Contact: +1 514-861-3708
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Recreated in 2000, Governor’s Garden at Château Ramezay is a charming homage to the French colonial gardens that once graced the properties of Montreal’s elite.
Divided into a kitchen garden, orchard, and formal pleasure garden, each section reflects the horticultural practices of the time. You’ll feel transported back to 18th-century Montreal – a great place to go for quiet time if you’re a history buff.
Westmount Conservatory and Greenhouses
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Location: 4624 Sherbrooke St W, Westmount, Quebec H3Z 2Z8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-989-5230
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Westmount Conservatory and Greenhouses is a restored piece of Montreal’s horticultural history. Originally built in 1927 by the renowned Lord & Burnham company, this Victorian-style greenhouse is a testament to architectural elegance and botanical passion.
After a seven-year hiatus and a $6.5 million renovation, the conservatory has reopened its doors, showcasing its beautifully arranged tropical plants, including orchids, banana trees, and hyacinths. Check out the charming fountain, pool and strategically placed seating areas!
Hidden bars and speakeasies
El Pequeño
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Location: 401a R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y 3A4, Canada
Contact: +1 514-294-6911
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Pricing: $
This tiny bar with room for just 10 lucky patrons is the place for intimacy and craft cocktails. Brought to you by the creative minds behind The Cold Room, El Pequeño transports you straight to Havana with its vintage decor and dim lighting.
But the real magic of El Pequeño lies in the hands of the skilled bartenders, who whip up everything from classic mojitos to innovative seasonal concoctions.
The personalised service and exclusive vibe make every visit here feel like a special occasion, leaving you with memories (and maybe a slight buzz) that’ll last long after you leave.
Le Plongeoir
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Location: 5350 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2T 1S1, Canada
Contact: +1 514-278-3456
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5;00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Le Plongeoir is where unpretentious vibes meet a sophisticated palate. This dive bar is a haven for natural wine enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back atmosphere with a touch of refinement.
Here, you can sip on a selection of low-intervention wines while savouring delectable snacks sourced from local purveyors like Aliments Viens. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day, offering an escape from the city, while still satisfying your taste buds.
Notre Dame Des Quilles
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Location: 32 Rue Beaubien E, Montréal, QC H2S 1P8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-757-7415
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Notre Dame Des Quilles is Montreal’s answer to the question “Can we bowl and party at the same time?” This quirky establishment is a mishmash of retro charm and modern cool, where the thrill of bowling meets the buzz of a trendy bar.
With its two vintage bowling lanes, eclectic decor, and killer jukebox, this bar is the perfect spot to unleash your inner hipster bowler. It’s a place where you can sip craft cocktails, munch on gourmet pizza, and cheer on your friends as they strike (or gutter) on the lanes.
But what sets NDQ apart is its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. It’s a popular spot within the LGBTQ+ community, known for its friendly vibe and eclectic crowd.
Nhậu bar
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Location: 600 William St, Montreal, Quebec H3C 1N6, Canada
Contact: +1 514-600-5870
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: $$
This speakeasy offers an intimate and stylish escape from the bustling city streets, transporting you to a world of Asian-inspired flavours and tiki-infused cocktails.
Here, you can sip on their signature Pandan Sour or the Dji, a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned, while indulging in culinary delights like imperial rolls and exquisite buns.
As the night progresses, the DJ sets and lively crowd create an electrifying atmosphere, making Nhậu Bar the perfect spot to enjoy great music and even better company.
Shops and attractions
Affiche en tête
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Location: 2034 Mont-Royal Ave E, Montreal, Quebec H2H 1J6, Canada
Contact: +1 514-522-0919
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
This hidden gem offers a refreshing break from the typical tourist traps, drawing you in with its eclectic collection of posters and prints. Go inside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant array of artwork, each piece telling its own unique story.
From quirky illustrations to classic designs, Affiche en tête caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re searching for a vintage travel poster to spark wanderlust, you’ll undoubtedly discover a treasure that speaks to your soul.
Henri Henri
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Location: 189 St Catherine St E, Montreal, Quebec H2X 1K8, Canada
Contact: +1 514-288-0109
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Henri Henri has been topping heads with style since 1932. This iconic hat store on Sainte-Catherine Street is a treasure trove of millinery masterpieces, where classic fedoras, stylish flat caps, and elegant women’s headpieces await to adorn your noggin.
Each hat is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and timeless design, making it a must-visit if you want to elevate your wardrobe with a touch of sophistication.
Boutique Les hauts et les bas
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Location: 4487 Rue Fabre, Montréal, QC H2J 3V4, Canada
Contact: +1 514-529-7444
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Wednesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Nestled on Rue Fabre, this charming shop has curated a delightful undergarments and clothing selection for years, focusing on high-quality brands like Aubade, Simone Pérèle, Implicite, Sokoloff, and Marie-Jo.
More than just a place to purchase lingerie, Les Hauts et Les Bas offers a truly personalised shopping experience in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece to spice up your wardrobe or simply seeking everyday comfort and style, their staff will guide you through their collections.
