5505 Boulevard Saint-Laurent

1. Saint-Viateur Bagel
263, Rue Saint-Viateur Ouest
You’ve heard of the Montréal bagel? This is where you come to get one; it has been open since 1957 and operates 24-7. The best thing to do is grab a dozen sesame bagels, a pint of cream cheese and a plastic knife and eat ’em while they’re hot.

2. Dragon Flowers
159, Rue Bernard Ouest
Owned by Hong Kong-born Tamey Lau, this neighbourhood florist is easily recognizable by the hanging birdcages and countless bouquets strewn about the sidewalk. The flowers and good energy are unparalleled.

3. Drawn & Quarterly
211, Rue Bernard Ouest
This local publisher is well known for its support of Canadian authors of all kinds and is a great place to pick up your next read. Books are piled high; prepare to spend some time here.

4. Drogheria Fine
68, Avenue Fairmount Ouest
While the main item sold here is the Salsa Della Nonna tomato sauce—made with just five ingredients—the perpetual lineup is for the $5 gnocchi served in Chinese takeout boxes.

5. Café Olimpico
124, Rue Saint-Viateur Ouest
This is where the community comes together over coffee. Stop by any time of day and you’re likely to see familiar faces gathered on the sidewalks out front. Famous for its lattes.

6. Rialto Theatre
5723, Avenue du Parc
Built as a movie theatre in 1924, the building was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1993. It’s now often rented out as an event space but occasionally offers cultural programming. The architectural facade alone is worth checking out.

Top Spots

Antoine Leduc-Labelle, public relations manager at Ubisoft Montréal, shares a few of his favourite spots within walking distance. “There’s something inexplicable that happens here. You meet people from all walks of life, and there is a unique mix of French and English culture.”

7. Pastel Rita
5761, Boulevard Saint-Laurent
“The atmosphere and decor—with its pink and turquoise accent colours—are unbeatable. Close to the office, it’s as good for coffee in the morning as it is for natural wine at night.”

8. Le Butterblume
5836, Boulevard Saint-Laurent
“One of my favourite brunch spots in town. Fresh products, generous portions and a smiling team that leaves me with the feeling of being at home every time I visit.”