Epicurean treats can be found just about anywhere in Montreal. Some neighborhoods, however, are blessed with a little extra je ne sais quoi. Although not necessarily known for being gastronomic powerhouses, Rachel and St-Viateur streets are home to a host of hidden gems, some of which I’d like to share with you now.
On the first day, walk along Rachel Street (from Esplanade to Lafontaine, about 1 km) and you’ll come across two churches, four parks (including two Montreal gems: Lafontaine and Mount Royal) and upwards of 35 restaurants, bars and specialty food shops. A foodie’s paradise!
10am Crudessence
I’d start the day on Mount Royal for an early-morning walk or jog, then stop in for a delightful raw breakfast at Crudessence, Montreal’s only raw food vegan restaurant. I recommend the yogurt cup layered with fresh fruit, crunchy granola and cashews. Their smoothies are great, too.
11am Mycoboutique
If you love mushrooms as much as I do, I highly recommend Mycoboutique, a small shop specializing in the versatile veggie. There, you can sample different varieties of mushrooms, flip through cookbooks, purchase unique oils and condiments as souvenirs and attend workshops.
12pm L’Anecdote
801 Rachel Street East, 514-526-7927
Can’t get enough of the swinging sixties? Swing by Anecdote, a retro snack bar serving up a wide variety of burgers for every taste (think lamb burger with blue cheese).
1pm Rachelle-Béry
505 Rachel Street East, 514- 524-0725
As far as health food stores go, Rachelle-Béry was one of the first to set up shop in Montreal. In business for a solid quarter of a century, its name comes from the fact that the original store was located on the corner of Rachel and Berri streets. Today, there are three Montreal locations specializing in homeopathic products, organic veggies and fruits, and ready-to-eat delights.
2pm Atelier Solderie Arthur Quentin
It’s worth taking a little detour from Rachel St. to stop in at this homeware outlet. At Arthur Quentin (located a few blocks away on St-Denis Street), you’ll find everything you need to dress your kitchen (and home) in style at great prices.
3pm Café Rico
969 Rachel Street East, 514-529-1321
It’s coffee time at Café Rico, Quebec’s first fair-trade coffee roaster. Come in and chill out in the Plateau’s artsy appeal.
5pm Chesterfield Wine Bar
Ready for happy hour? The Chesterfield wine bar offers more than 150 different wines, including 52 different types of wine and champagne available by the glass. Get the party started!
