Best of MTL – 514Blog

Quebec Ice Storm Babies Carry a Unique Epigenetic Profile

Stephanie Barnes — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 01:44:54 +0000

In January of 1998, Canada had what’s considered to be one of our worst natural disasters to date: an ice storm, resulting in over 100 millimetres of freezing rain and ice showering large parts of Quebec, eastern Ontario, and pieces of the Maritimes. In Quebec, it was referred to as the “storm of the century”, and rightfully so. Public Safety Canada’s disaster database says that 35 Canadians died as a result of the storm, and over 1000 were injured.

As layer upon layer of sleet blanketed the province, the weight snapped branches off trees, causing the limbs to come crashing down on powerlines. Hydro Quebec’s towers, previously thought to be indestructible given their ability to withstand up to 45mm of ice accumulation, buckled under the weight.

In Quebec alone, 3.5 million people were without power, and many for several weeks. The projected cost in the aftermath of the storm estimated between one and three billion dollars.

If you grew up in Lower Mainland B.C., like I did, you may never have heard of this ice storm. In fact, if you’ve never spent a winter outside of the Lower Mainland (like I hadn’t, up until this last one), then you also might not even know that rain can freeze. Friends back home, you don’t know the half of it.

There’s something to be said about how places form people – the geography we’re raised in is arguably where we learn to thrive, right?

Which is why I have no problem admitting to you that I had a difficult time becoming accustomed to a Quebec winter (one that I’ve been told by many was really not that bad). But the extent of which we are truly formed by our surroundings, particularly when we’re still in the womb, has been something of great interest to Dr. Suzanne King, a Montreal-based researcher, for decades.

When the ice storms of 1998 took place, Dr. King had already been curious about prenatal maternal stress. After the storms, she turned her curiosity into a study on how that stress impacts a child’s health.

The study, titled (arguably the coolest name ever) Project Ice Storm, was (and is) conducted by scientists from the Douglas Mental Health University Institute and McGill University, and started by addressing the maternal personality factors of 178 women who had been exposed to the storms, who either were pregnant at the time, or became pregnant soon after. Researchers also factored in the amount of days without power each woman went through, post-traumatic stress symptoms, and physiological reactions.

Follow-ups with the children born from these women happened every year or every other year, though it’s clear that the follow-up is ongoing, as the goal of the study as it currently stands is “to understand the long-term effects of the prenatal exposure to stress… by studying developmental trajectories through early adulthood,” according to the Project Ice Storm page on McGill’s website.

Through Project Ice Storm, scientists found that women who were in the first half of their pregnancies during the worst of the storms had babies with lower birth weights; pregnant women who were in their third trimester had babies with lower fine motor skills.

In 2014, researchers for Project Ice Storm made a genuine breakthrough, the results of which were published online by Plos One; DNA within the T cells of 36 of these children showed distinctive patterns – an “epigenetic signature” – in DNA methylation (the process by which methyl groups are added to the DNA molecule, which can modify the function of the gene).

What this meant is that, for the first time ever, researchers were able to conclude that maternal hardship predicted the degree of methylation (modification) of DNA in the T cells, a type of cell found in the immune system, and that the objective stressor (the days each woman went without power) was the long-lasting influencer on these changes, not the degree of emotional stress.

The changes in T cells specifically, or in any genes related to immunity and sugar metabolism, put a person at a greater risk for developing asthma, diabetes, or obesity later in life. In June of 2014, Project Ice Storm had results published in both BioMed Research International and Psychiatry Research highlighting the links between prenatal maternal stress and the development of not only asthma, but autism in the children.

And curiously enough, all of the children participants were found to be more prone for anxiety and depression, starting at an age as young as 4.

Researchers for Project Ice Storm acknowledge that the results need to be replicated, and with a larger testing pool, but this is tricky for a variety of reasons.

Moshe Szyf, a McGill University pharmacology and therapeutics professor, and one of the researchers on the project, told the CBC that, though there was previous evidence found that stressing animals during pregnancy had long-term effects in DNA programming and health, it’s obviously unethical to intentionally stress babies. I’d argue it’s pretty unethical either way, but that’s a story for another day.

The fetus is obviously sensitive to the mother’s environment, but what are we to do with that information? It can be a difficult challenge just to maintain stress levels in everyday life, but you add an unborn baby to the picture (or your womb), with a ticking clock as to when that unborn baby will become a screaming, crying baby (entirely your responsibility in every way), and then someone tells you to relax? Have you met a pregnant person?

But on top of all that, now we learn that it’s the actual hardship the mother goes through that impacts the fetus, not her stress levels.

Pregnant women, have you managed to calm down? Excellent, now go find someplace peaceful, serene, and immune to any kind of natural disaster.

To date, nearly 100 families are still participating in Project Ice Storm while researchers “continue to analyze the rich data collected over the years,” though their page also states there are currently no new assessments planned.

The post Quebec Ice Storm Babies Carry a Unique Epigenetic Profile appeared first on 514Blog.

Sound as Sleep Therapy: The Forgotten Art of Acoustic Healing

Amanda Wang — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 05:55:55 +0000

Author’s Note: While the characters and their love story are fictional, this story was inspired by the real events that happened to me on Plateau Mont Royal in 2025. The healing power of sound therapy and the innovative work being done by apps like BetterSleep to make ancient wellness practices accessible to modern lives is very real. Sometimes the most profound healing happens not in dramatic moments, but in the quiet spaces between heartbeats, in the gentle frequencies that remind us we are not alone. Enjoy the story.

I’m lying here at 2:47 AM, staring at the water stain on my ceiling that looks like a broken heart, and I can’t help but think that’s exactly what I am right now. Broken. The crooked floors of my Plateau-Mont-Royal apartement creak every time I shift in bed, like they’re judging me for being awake again.

Three months. That’s how long it’s been since Marcus walked out of this apartment, out of my life, taking his stupid expensive coffee maker and leaving behind nothing but sleepless nights and the lingering scent of Portuguese chicken from the restaurant downstairs that now makes me nauseous instead of hungry.

The wrought-iron balconies outside my window cast shadows that dance across the colorful facades of Rue Saint-Laurent, and I wonder if other people in this neighborhood lie awake wondering where their lives went wrong. The distant hum of the restaurant mingles with the sound of raccoons conducting their nightly raid on the recycling bins, and honestly? I relate to those raccoons. We’re all just trying to find something useful in the garbage of our lives.

I pull my grandmother’s Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket closer around my shoulders—the only thing of value I inherited when Grand-mère passed last year, besides her Westmount apartment that I had to sell to pay for this bohemian corner of Montreal where I pretend to be a successful freelance journalist.

The 55 bus rumbles past, carrying people who probably have their shit together, unlike me. I grab my phone from the nightstand, squinting at the blue light that’s probably making my insomnia worse, but I don’t care anymore. I’ve tried everything: meditation apps, sleeping pills that leave me groggy, even counting sheep in both French and English because this is Montreal and I’m bilingual in my insomnia.

That’s when I hear it.

A sound so beautiful it makes my chest ache in a way that has nothing to do with heartbreak and everything to do with something I can’t name. It’s coming from the triplex next door, floating through the thin walls that separate my mess of a life from whatever magic is happening over there.

I press my ear against the wall like some creepy neighbor, but I don’t care. The sound is low and resonant, like someone humming but deeper, more intentional. It wraps around me like the warmest hug I’ve had in months, and for the first time since Marcus left, I feel my shoulders relax.

Without thinking, I get up and move to my window. Through the gap between our buildings, I can see into the apartment next door. There’s a woman sitting cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by what looks like an orchestra of bowls, each one singing at a different frequency as she moves a wooden mallet around their rims.

She’s beautiful in that effortless Montreal way—dark hair falling in waves around her face, wearing an oversized sweater that probably costs more than my rent, but somehow she makes it look like she just threw it on. There’s something about the way she moves, so deliberate and peaceful, that makes me want to cry.

The sound continues, and I find myself breathing deeper for the first time in months. The anxious chatter in my mind—the endless loop of “why wasn’t I enough for Marcus” and “how am I going to pay rent next month” and “what the hell am I doing with my life”—begins to quiet.

I watch this mystery woman work with her singing bowls, and something stirs in my memory. Grand-mère used to hum while she cooked, not popular songs but something older, something that seemed to come from deep in her chest and resonate through her tiny Westmount kitchen. “C’est la sonothérapie,” she would say when I asked about it. Sound medicine.

As the bowls continue their ethereal conversation, I find myself drifting toward sleep for the first time in weeks. The last thing I remember is thinking that maybe, just maybe, there’s still magic in this world. Even for broken-hearted insomniacs living in crooked-floored apartments.

The Woman with the Singing Bowls

I wake to the scent of fresh bagels from drifting through my window, and for a moment, I forget that my life is a disaster. The sun is streaming through my windows, and I’ve actually slept through the night. No 3 AM panic attacks about my dwindling bank account, no tossing and turning while replaying every fight Marcus and I ever had.

The sound of the singing bowls has been replaced by the familiar morning symphony of the Plateau: the espresso machine at the café downstairs, delivery trucks navigating narrow streets, the gentle chaos of a neighborhood waking up. But something has shifted. The sounds that usually make me want to crawl back under my covers—the construction noise from another heritage building being converted into luxury condos that I’ll never be able to afford—seem somehow more manageable today.

I’m making coffee in my tiny kitchen when there’s a knock at my door. My heart does this stupid flutter thing because for a split second I think it might be Marcus, coming back to tell me he made a mistake. But when I open the door, it’s her. The woman with the singing bowls.

She’s even more beautiful up close, with these warm brown eyes that seem to see right through all my carefully constructed walls. She’s holding a small ceramic bowl and wearing the kind of easy smile that suggests she’s used to having conversations that most people would find weird.

“Bonjour,” she says, switching between French and English in that distinctly Montreal way that always makes me feel like I belong somewhere. “I hope I didn’t disturb you last night. I saw your light on and thought… well, I thought you might be having trouble sleeping.”

I want to lie, to pretend I have my life together, but there’s something about her that makes honesty feel safe. “Actually, it was the opposite. I slept better than I have in months. What were those sounds?”

She smiles, and it’s like sunshine breaking through clouds. “I’m Margot. And those were Tibetan singing bowls. I’m a sound therapist—I work with people who have sleep disorders, anxiety, chronic pain.”

I invite her in, suddenly self-conscious about my messy apartment, the stack of unpaid bills on my counter, the empty wine bottles I haven’t bothered to recycle. But Margot settles onto my couch like she belongs here, cradling that bowl in her hands like it’s precious.

“I moved here three years ago from Quebec City,” she tells me. “I was going through my own dark period—divorce, career change, the whole quarter-life crisis package. The Plateau saved me, honestly. There’s something about this neighborhood that accepts broken people and helps them heal.”

The way she says “broken people” makes my chest tight, because that’s exactly what I am. Broken. But when she says it, it doesn’t sound like a death sentence. It sounds like a starting point.

“My grand-mère used to sing,” I tell her, surprising myself with the admission. “She said it was sound medicine.”

Margot’s eyes light up like I’ve just revealed the secret to the universe. “Your grandmother understood something we’ve forgotten. Sound is our oldest medicine. Before pharmaceuticals, before therapy, before everything else, humans used sound to heal.”

She explains her work, how she combines ancient practices with modern understanding of neuroscience. “The brain responds to specific frequencies. Certain sounds can trigger the release of melatonin, reduce cortisol levels, help synchronize brainwaves. It’s not magic—it’s science.”

I think about my months of insomnia, the sleeping pills that made me feel like a zombie, dating apps that somehow made me more anxious. “Why don’t more people know about this?”

Margot’s expression grows sad, and I want to reach out and smooth the worry lines from her forehead. “We live in a culture that’s forgotten how to listen. We’ve created cities full of noise pollution, we’ve medicalized everything without addressing root causes, and we’ve lost touch with the healing power of natural sound.”

She gestures toward my window, where the sounds of the Plateau continue their morning dance. “Even here, in this beautiful neighborhood, we’re surrounded by acoustic chaos. Our nervous systems are in constant fight-or-flight mode.”

“But last night,” I say, “your bowls somehow cut through all that.”

“Sound can retrain the nervous system,” she explains, and the way she talks about it, with such passion and knowledge, makes me want to learn everything she knows. “The frequencies I was working with are specifically chosen to promote deep sleep and nervous system regulation.”

As we talk, I realize I’m experiencing something I haven’t felt since before Marcus left: genuine curiosity instead of anxiety. The journalist in me is waking up, but it’s more than that. It’s like Margot is showing me a door I didn’t know existed.

“Would you…” I start, then stop, suddenly nervous. “Would you be willing to teach me? About sound therapy?”

Margot studies my face for a long moment, and I feel like she’s seeing all my broken pieces and somehow finding them beautiful. “There’s something I want to show you first,” she says, pulling out her phone. “Have you ever heard of sleep apps?”

I shake my head, and she opens an app that looks like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The interface is elegant, calming, with soft colors that don’t assault your eyes like most apps do.

“It’s a sleep app, but not like the others,” she explains, her fingers moving across the screen with practiced ease. “It has this incredible sound mixer feature. You can blend different frequencies, nature sounds, even singing bowls like the ones I use.”

She shows me how it works, and I’m mesmerized. There are hundreds of sounds—rain on leaves, ocean waves, Tibetan bowls, crystal chimes, even something called “brown noise” that sounds like the most comforting hug in audio form.

“The beautiful thing about this app,” Margot continues, “is that it democratizes sound healing. Not everyone can afford private sessions or expensive equipment, but anyone with a phone can access these healing frequencies.”

She creates a custom mix for me right there on my couch, blending gentle rain sounds with soft singing bowls and something called “delta waves” that she says will help promote deep sleep. As the sounds fill my small apartment, I feel that same sense of peace I experienced last night.

“Try this tonight,” she says, handing me her phone so I can download the app. “But more than that, start paying attention to how different sounds affect you. Notice what makes you feel calm, what makes you anxious. Become curious about your own acoustic needs.”

After she leaves, I sit on my couch with the app open, exploring all the different sound combinations. For the first time in months, I’m excited about bedtime. Not because I’m exhausted, but because I have something to look forward to.

That night, I created my own mix using BetterSleep’s sound mixer—a blend of ocean waves, singing bowls, and something called “pink noise” that Margot recommended. As I settle into bed with my grandmother’s blanket, I put on my headphones and let the sounds wash over me.

The effect is immediate. My racing thoughts slow down, my breathing deepens, and for the first time since Marcus left, I don’t feel alone. The sounds create a cocoon of safety around me, and I drift off to sleep thinking that maybe healing isn’t about fixing what’s broken. Maybe it’s about learning to find peace within the chaos.

The Sound of Healing
Two weeks later, I’m a different person. Not completely healed—I’m not naive enough to think an app can fix a broken heart—but different. Stronger, maybe. Or at least better rested.

The sleep app has become my nightly ritual. I’ve experimented with different combinations, learning that I respond best to a mix of rain sounds and singing bowls with just a touch of brown noise underneath. The app tracks my sleep patterns, and I can see the improvement in black and white: longer deep sleep phases, fewer nighttime awakenings, better overall sleep quality.

But it’s more than just the data. It’s the way I feel when I wake up—like I can handle whatever the day throws at me. It’s the way my anxiety has softened around the edges, how I no longer spiral into panic when I think about my uncertain future.

I’m at Marché Jean-Talon, picking up herbs for evening tea—another new ritual I’ve adopted—when I see him. Marcus. He’s with her, the woman he left me for, and they’re laughing at something on his phone. She’s everything I’m not: tall, blonde, probably has a trust fund and a stable career.

Six weeks ago, seeing them together would have sent me into a tailspin. I would have hidden behind the herb stand, gone home, and cried into a bottle of wine while listening to sad songs and wondering what was wrong with me.

But today, something different happens. I feel the familiar pang of hurt, but underneath it is something new: a sense of my own worth that has nothing to do with whether Marcus chose me or not.

I walk right past them, my head held high, and I swear I see surprise flicker across Marcus’s face. Good. Let him wonder what changed.

That evening, I’m settling into my nightly routine with when my phone buzzes with a text from an unknown number.

“Hi, it’s Margot. I hope you don’t mind—I got your number from the building directory. I wanted to check how you’re doing with the sound therapy.”

My heart does that flutter thing again, but this time it’s not about Marcus. It’s about the woman who introduced me to the healing power of sound, who showed me that broken doesn’t mean worthless.

“It’s been life-changing,” I text back. “I’m sleeping better than I have in years. Thank you.”

Her response comes quickly: “I’m so glad. Would you like to grab coffee tomorrow? I have something I want to discuss with you.”

I stare at the message for a long moment, my thumb hovering over the keyboard. There’s something about the way she phrases it that makes my stomach flutter with nervous excitement.

“I’d love to,” I reply.

The next morning, I meet Margot at Café Olimpico, a tiny café tucked away on a side street in Mile End. She’s already there when I arrive, sitting at a corner table with two steaming cups and that same warm smile that makes me feel like everything might actually be okay.

“You look different,” she says as I sit down. “Rested.”

“I feel different,” I admit. “The app has been incredible. I had no idea how much my sleep was affecting everything else in my life.”

Margot nods, wrapping her hands around her coffee cup. “Sleep is the foundation of everything—emotional regulation, cognitive function, physical health. When we’re sleep-deprived, we’re operating from a place of survival rather than thriving.”

She pauses, studying my face with those warm brown eyes. “I have a proposition for you. I’ve been thinking about writing a book about sound therapy, about how ancient healing practices can be integrated with modern technology. But I’m a therapist, not a writer. You’re a journalist. What if we collaborated?”

My heart stops. Actually stops. “You want to write a book with me?”

“I want to write a book with you,” she confirms, and the way she says it makes me think she might mean more than just professional collaboration. “Your story—how you discovered sound healing, changed your relationship with sleep—it could help so many people.”

I think about all the sleepless nights, all the anxiety and heartbreak and feeling like I was drowning in my own life. And then I think about how I feel now: grounded, hopeful, like I’m finally becoming the person I was meant to be.

“Yes,” I say, and the word comes out stronger than I expected. “Yes, I want to do this with you.”

Margot’s smile could power the entire Plateau. “There’s something else,” she says, reaching across the table to touch my hand. The contact sends electricity up my arm. “I know you’re still healing from your breakup, and I don’t want to complicate things, but I need you to know that this isn’t just about the book for me.”

My breath catches. “What do you mean?”

“I mean that watching you discover your own strength these past few weeks has been the most beautiful thing I’ve ever witnessed. I mean that I think about you every night when I’m practicing with my singing bowls. I mean that I’m falling for you, and I hope that’s okay.”

The café around us fades away. The sounds of the Plateau—the traffic, the conversations in rapid-fire French, the espresso machine—all become background music to this moment.

“It’s more than okay,” I whisper, and when she leans to kiss me, it tastes like coffee and possibility and the kind of healing I never knew was possible.

Chapter Four: The Sound of Love
Six months later, I’m lying in Margot’s bed in her sound-filled apartment, listening to her practice with her singing bowls in the next room. The sounds drift through the walls like a lullaby, and I think about how much my life has changed since that first sleepless night when I heard her music.

Our book proposal was sent to a major publisher. “Sound Sleep: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Rest”, combining my storytelling with Margot’s expertise and featuring a whole chapter on how apps are making sound therapy accessible to everyone.

But more than that, I’ve found something I didn’t even know I was looking for: a love that heals instead of hurts, a partnership that makes me stronger instead of smaller, a future that feels bright instead of uncertain.

My phone buzzes with a notification —my sleep score from last night was 94%, the highest it’s ever been. I smile, remembering how desperate I was just months ago, how broken I felt, how impossible healing seemed.

Margot appears in the doorway, backlit by the soft light from her practice room, and my heart still does that flutter thing when I see her. I don’t think it will ever stop.

“How did you sleep?” she asks, settling beside me on the bed.

“Like a baby,” I say, showing her my sleep score. “I think I’m officially a sound therapy success story.”

She laughs, that beautiful sound that’s become my favorite frequency. “You were always a success story. You just needed the right tools to remember it.”

I think about Marcus sometimes, wonder if he’s happy with his blonde girlfriend, if he ever thinks about what we had. But mostly, I’m grateful. Grateful that he left, grateful that I was broken enough to be open to healing, grateful that sometimes the worst thing that happens to you leads to the best thing.

“I love you,” I tell Margot, words that come easier now, words that don’t feel scary anymore.

“I love you too,” she says, and then she’s kissing me, and the singing bowls in the next room seem to hum in harmony with my heartbeat.

Later, as we’re getting ready for the day, Margot shows me a message from a reader who found our blog about sound therapy.

“I’ve been struggling with insomnia for years,” the message reads. “After reading your story and downloading the app, I’ve had the best sleep of my life. Thank you for showing me that healing is possible.”

I feel tears prick my eyes, the good kind this time. “We’re actually helping people.”

“We’re helping people help themselves,” Margot corrects. “That’s the most beautiful kind of healing.”

As we walk through the Plateau together, past the colorful facades and ornate balconies, past the Portuguese chicken restaurant and the 24-hour dépanneur, I think about how this neighborhood has become the soundtrack to my healing. The sounds that once kept me awake—the traffic, the construction, the general chaos of urban life—have become part of my story, part of the symphony that led me to Margot and to myself.

My phone buzzes with another BetterSleep notification, reminding me to set my sleep intention for tonight. I smile, thinking about how I’ll create a new sound mix, maybe something with ocean waves and crystal bowls, something that will carry me into dreams filled with possibility.

Because that’s what I’ve learned: healing isn’t about silence. It’s about finding the right sounds, the ones that resonate with your soul and remind you that you’re not broken—you’re just learning to sing in a different key.

And sometimes, if you’re really lucky, you find someone who wants to make music with you for the rest of your life.

Epilogue: One Year Later
I’m standing on the terrasse of our new apartment—yes, our apartment, because Margot and I decided to find a place together, one with better heating and floors that don’t creak quite so much—watching the sunset over Mount Royal. The sounds of the city drift up to us: children playing in the park below, the distant hum of traffic, the evening chorus of birds settling in for the night.

Our book comes out next month, and we’ve already been invited to speak at conferences about the intersection of ancient healing practices and modern technology.

But tonight, none of that matters. Tonight, it’s just us and the sounds of Montreal and the quiet miracle of two people who found each other in the darkness and chose to create light together.

Margot comes up behind me, wrapping her arms around my waist, and I lean back into her warmth.

“What are you thinking about?” she asks.

“Just… all of it. How different everything is now.”

“Better different?”

“The best different,” I say, turning in her arms to face her. “I never thought I’d be grateful for insomnia, but if it hadn’t kept me awake that night, I never would have heard your singing bowls. I never would have found you.”

She smiles, that same warm smile that made me feel safe from the very beginning. “Maybe the universe knew we needed each other.”

“Maybe it did.”

As the sun sets over Montreal, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, I think about all the people out there who are lying awake right now, struggling with their own darkness, their own broken hearts, their own sleepless nights. I think about how sound can heal, how technology can connect us to ancient wisdom, how sometimes the thing that saves you comes in the form of an app on your phone and a woman with singing bowls who teaches you that broken doesn’t mean worthless.

My phone buzzes with my nightly sleep reminder, and I smile. Tonight, I’ll create a new mix—maybe something with rain and singing bowls and the sound of Margot’s breathing beside me. Because that’s what healing sounds like: not silence, but harmony. Not the absence of noise, but the presence of the right kind of music.

And as we head inside to begin our evening ritual, I know that whatever dreams come tonight, they’ll be filled with the sound of love, the frequency of hope, and the gentle rhythm of a life finally in tune with itself.

The End

The post Sound as Sleep Therapy: The Forgotten Art of Acoustic Healing appeared first on 514Blog.

Best 14 Coffee Shops In Montreal To Study Or Work

Amanda Wang — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:48:57 +0000

Montreal is a haven for coffee lovers. Whether you’re looking for a place to study or work, there’s bound to be a coffee shop that fits your needs. Here are 14 of the best coffee shops in Montreal for getting work done. From cozy nooks to bustling cafes, there’s something for everyone. So grab your laptop and head to one of these spots to get productive!

Pigeon Café | Monkland Village

Individuals who need to get some work done while unwinding with a nice book or working on their laptop here in a tranquil setting will find this charming modest coffee shop ideal. The Pigeon Café is well-known for high-quality coffee, both of which have the potential to put you in a more laid-back frame of mind. From a delicious breakfast of Smoked Salmon Avo toast to Celia Lager, they have everything for you. Their Espresso Martini is enough to charge you so you can study or work more productively.

Address: 5625 Monkland Ave, Montreal, Quebec H4A 1E2, Canada

Instagram Page: @pigeon.cafe

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7am–11pm

Saturday – Sunday: 8am – 11pm

Le Darling | Plateau

Le Darling is an outstanding option for those in the greater Montreal area looking for a high-quality coffee shop to work or study. The neighborhood of Plateau is home to Le Darling, which is well-known for having a comforting and cozy atmosphere and delicious food items like Huître à l’unité, Biscuit au Chocolat and cheesecake. The environment and delicious snacks make it an excellent location for conducting business or getting some work done. Both the customer service, which is consistently friendly and pleasant, and the quality of the coffee are of the highest possible standard. In addition, there is free Wi-Fi access, which enables you to keep working without losing your connection to the outside world.

Address: 4328 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1Z3, Canada

Instagram Page: @bar.darling

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 4pm – 1am

Friday: 11am – 3am

Saturday: 10am – 3am

Sunday: 10am – 1am

Café OUI MAIS NON⁠

Want high-quality coffee and a productive atmosphere? Café OUI MAIS NON is the perfect spot for you. Although the coffee is subpar, you need never worry about becoming hungry because you can place an order anytime. Good coffee, hearty home-cooked comfort food, and microbrews that aren’t watered down are all available in this welcoming environment. They’re in a good-karma attitude toward Earth, and they give you a hand in making environmentally responsible decisions. It’s so easy to focus on the upbeat that you might not even notice. Café OUI MAIS NON is an excellent choice for either academic or professional interests that you may have. It also has a wonderful atmosphere and perfect lighting. In addition, there is a sizable selection of both food and beverages accessible, enabling you to maintain your current energy levels during the day.

Address: 72 Rue Jarry E, Montréal, QC H2P 1T1, Canada

Instagram Page: @cafeouimaisnon

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7am – 11pm

Tommy’s – Old Montreal

There’s something about Tommy’s that makes it the perfect place to get work done. It could be the exposed brick walls or the ample natural light streaming in from the large windows. Whatever it is, we can all agree that Tommy’s is one of the best places to study or work in Montreal. The coffee is great, and there’s a good selection of food if you need something more substantial than a pastry to power through your work session. The staff is always friendly and happy to chat, creating a relaxed atmosphere. And if you need a break from working, there’s plenty of people-watching to be done on Old Montreal’s busy streets.

Address: 151 Saint-Paul St W, Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1Z5, Canada

Instagram Page: @tommy.cafe

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 8am – 4pm

Friday – Sunday: 8am – 6pm

Café Orr

Café Orr is more than just a meeting place; it’s an immersive visual experience where ideas can flourish through spontaneous conversation. Private nooks and communal tables allow optimal concentration, collaboration, and relaxation. Free movie showings are held every day at 2 pm and 8 pm in a cinema room on the mezzanine. The Café Orr is a fantastic option for those looking for a place to study or get some work done in Montreal. There is an abundant supply of baked goods and sandwiches to choose from. If you are searching for a place where people are kind to one another and try to keep their etiquette in check, Café Orr is the place to go.

Address: 5368 Av. Papineau, Montréal, QC H2H 1W2, Canada

Instagram Page: @cafeorr

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7am – 11pm

Café Santropol

The Café Santropol stands out as one of the numerous important buildings in Montreal. This coffee shop in Plateau has been a hangout for young people of all different backgrounds, including high school and college students, for many years now. The structure presently homes to Cafe Santropol was being slated for demolition in 1976, so Café Santropol was established. Due to the extensive menu of plant-based cuisine offered at Cafe Santropol, vegetarians and vegans will find it an excellent alternative dining option. Everyone you know who follows a plant-based diet, including your family, friends, and coworkers, should pay this establishment a visit.

Address: 3990 Rue Saint-Urbain, Montréal, QC H2W 1T7, Canada

Instagram Page: @cafesantropol

Opening Hours: Wednesday – Thursday: 12 – 7pm

Friday – Sunday: 11:30am – 9pm

Crew Collective Café | Old Montréal

With it’s 50ft-high vaulted ceilings, grand chandeliers, a massive entrance hall, big bright windows and marble floors, Crew is spectacular and definatly one of our favorite coffee shops in Montreal. Housed in the main hall of the old Royal Bank Tower, this cafe is perfect for studying; there’s plenty of natural light, the coffee is delicious, and the staff is very helpful with tips on where best to sit or work in order to get your work done efficiently.

Address: 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, QC H2Y 1P5, Canada

Instagram Page: @crewcollectivecafe

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 8am–4pm

Saturday – Sunday: 10am–5pm

Cafe Aunja | Downtown

In Montreal since 2013, Aunja (which means “there” in Persian) is an Iranian café and tea house with a warm and exotic environment. Herbal teas, tisanes, cold beverages, and pastries are the café’s bread and butter. Custom tea blends can be created from the many options available in the store’s tea department. Ginger Tea and Persian Fog are two of our most sought-after blends. As well as the usual fare, they provide breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. People from all over Montreal flock to Cafe Aunja to catch up with friends and family while indulging in a mouthwatering dinner. The baristas and waitstaff are kind and eager to assist. In addition to offering a varied selection of food and beverages, Cafe Aunja provides customers with an abundance of power outlets, allowing them to charge electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones as they enjoy a cup of coffee. Convenient, right?

Address: 1448 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1K4, Canada

Instagram Page: @cafeaunja

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 9am – 5pm

Saturday – Sunday: 10:30am – 6:30pm

Lili and Oli – Verdun/Griffintown

At Lili and Oli, you will find a wonderful atmosphere for getting some work done or studying in the city of Montreal. The atmosphere in the coffee shop is relaxed and welcoming, and the staff is more than willing to assist customers with any questions or needs. You will find an abundance of outlets, which will enable you to keep your electronic gadgets charged, and the provision of free Wi-Fi will make it simple to keep your connection with the outside world. Because it is of such high quality, the coffee served will allow you to keep your energy levels consistent while you are working. Moreover, their Salade de Betteraves, Salade de Quinoa and Bol Granola will help you stay healthy!

Address: 4554 Wellington St, Verdun, Quebec H4G 1W7, Canada

Instagram Page: @liliandoli

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7am – 7pm

Saturday – Sunday: 8am – 7pm

Café Parvis – Downtown

If you enjoy coffee and are looking for a quiet place to read, write, or work in the middle of the city, Café Parvis is a fantastic option for you to consider. Even if you are craving something nice, you can order Tataki de boeuf or satisfy your cravings with Chaudrée de palourdes. Moreover, the availability of free Wi-Fi makes it simple to maintain contact with the outside world. The peace and quiet of the setting and the relaxation it affords make it easier to concentrate on the matter at hand. It has everything that you need to study or conduct a meeting!

Address: 433 Mayor St, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1N9, Canada

Instagram Page: @cafe_parvis

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 11am – 11pm

Saturday: 10am – 11pm

Sunday: 10am – 3pm

Café OSMO

Café OSMO is a warm and inviting coffee establishment that can be found in the heart of the Plateau area in Montreal. The coffee shop has a homey and welcoming ambiance, and its spacious windows let in plenty of natural light. Additionally, the seating is very comfortable, making it an ideal environment for studying or getting work done. The recently renovated Café Osmo is significantly different from its former self. An enthusiastic group banded together to breathe new life into the area, which is instantly recognizable due to its brutalist design. In the daytime, Case Osmo transforms into a specialty café serving Ebi curry and Japanese sandwiches, two of Japan’s most popular dishes, along with other simple yet delicious dishes. Wonderful baked goods are also available.

Address: 51 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H2X 1X2, Canada

Instagram Page: @osmo_x_marusan

Opening Hours: Monday- Friday: 8am – 6pm

Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm

Dispatch Café – Plateau

Dispatch Café is the place to go if you find yourself in Plateau and seeking a place to quench your demand for caffeine. If you find yourself in Plateau, head there. Because of the unhurried nature of the setting, this cozy coffee shop is an excellent choice for those who need to concentrate on their schoolwork or get some work done on their laptop. They are experts in the coffee industry and understand that coffee can be enhanced in many ways beyond just the cup. They have always been unhappy with the way things are and have worked tirelessly to make a positive impact in this field. Their goal is to improve every aspect of our distribution network, from the field to your mug to the service you receive.

Address: 4021 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1Y4, Canada

Website: locations

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30am – 6pm

Saturday – Sunday: 8am – 6pm

Butterblume

There is a nice small coffee shop named Butterblume in the Plateau that is excellent for working or studying. The neighborhood is called Plateau. The coffee is of the highest quality, and the atmosphere throughout the entire establishment is one of calm and quiet relaxation. There are sufficient seats accessible both inside and outside the restaurant, so you won’t have trouble finding somewhere to sit if you go there. It serves as a central gathering place for the city’s various neighborhoods to have luncheon, an appetizer, or dinner. Whether on the spot or to take it away, you may also browse their grocery store. On your walk back to your house, pick up some freshly baked bread, soup, salad, light dinner and alcoholic beverages!

Address: 5836 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec H2T 1T3, Canada

Instagram Page: @lebutterblume_mtl

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday: 11am – 3pm

Thursday – Friday: 11am – 10pm

Saturday: 5:30pm – 10:30pm

Oh My Deer Café – Plateau

Oh M Deer Café is an ideal location if you are a vegan and want ice cream. They have recently introduced 22 new flavors and guess what? Out of them, NINE are for vegas. Isn’t it great? The restaurant’s café can be found nestled away in a quiet nook of the establishment. This cozy coffee shop is popular with students for various reasons, including the high quality of its beverages and convenient location. This is due to the fact that the shop is located in a convenient and highly visible part of town. Your trip would have been a complete and utter bust if you had skipped out on the opportunity to sample one of their world-famous cinnamon buns before you left.

Address: 24 Ave des Pins, Montreal, Quebec H2W 1N3, Canada

Instagram Page: @ohmydeer.cafe

Opening Hours: Monday: 9am – 5pm

Tuesday – Friday: 9am – 8pm

Saturday – Sunday: 9:30am – 8pm

Conclusion

There you have it, the top 14 coffee shops in Montreal to study or work. These cafes offer great atmospheres for getting things done, and they all have unique qualities that make them stand out. So whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to hunker down and get some serious work done or you need a place to meet up with clients or colleagues, there’s sure to be a cafe on this list that’s perfect for you.

The post Best 14 Coffee Shops In Montreal To Study Or Work appeared first on 514Blog.

Best and Worst Online Dating Stories from 2025

Alexandra Daigle — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 22:08:58 +0000

Online dating has become one of the most popular ways to meet potential partners. Dating applications such as Tinder, Bumble and Hinge allow everyone to swipe right, making it incredibly easy to meet new people. With such sheer volume of encounters come a multitude of stories that often end by someone getting ghosted. Furthermore, new words are emerging. Benching: When someone is on the fence about a potential suitor, but instead of getting rid of them, they’ll keep their options open and would put them on the ‘bench’ – where there might be several others waiting. Bread-crumbing is leaving a trail of short but flirtatious messages for a potential date without having any intention of starting a relationship. Cushioning is someone with a new partner who keeps several other option on the backburner — just in case the main relationship goes south. “Cloaking” is like “Ghosting”, but much worse. Cloaking is when a person doesn’t just stand you up for a planned date, they also block you on all social media platforms that they follow you on.

Our first online dating story comes from a blogger named Rachel Thompson who invented the term “cloaking”. She matched with Matthew on Hinge and they really hit it off quite well. He asked her out on a date Thursday night to an Italian restaurant called Padella in London.

As Thursday night came along, she arrived at the restaurant and messaged him letting him know she has arrived. After about a half hour, Rachel checked her Whatsapp, where she had messaged him, and realized that her messages weren’t delivering. When she tried to iMessage him, the messages were sending as green rather than blue. She then opened Hinge, the dating app where they had met, and saw that all of their flirty messages had been erased. Matthew was even gone from her list of matches.

Jessica began to worry about if her date was even showing up. She decided to stay and have a glass of wine while waiting another 20 minutes. Jessica began looking through her messages with Matthew to find anything that seemed suspicious.

She just could not figure out why she had been blocked in just a few hours when everything had been going so good. After searching for more clues, she found his Facebook profile. The next day, Jessica decided to message him and give him a piece of her mind. She did not think it was right of him to lead her out and waste her time, especially when she is a busy woman.

Even though Matthew never responded, Jessica felt a huge weight lifted off her shoulder after sending the message. As time went on, Jessica heard of many other stories of her friends experiencing being ghosted or cloaked when online dating. It is an inescapable experience in the online dating world, however everyone deserves an explanation nonetheless!

The next story is from an anonymous user who met a charming man on Tinder. Here she explains her story: “So I met this guy on Tinder and we really hit it off and were texting for months, on Skype and the phone every day. He lived in London and I lived in Toronto so it was a bit of a long distance thing. I visited him one weekend and things got really hot and heavy but he didn’t want to have sex because he “didn’t want to lose me.” I pushed him on what that meant but he didn’t really give me a straight answer. So as I was leaving he said “text me when you get home so I know you got home safe. So I get home, and text him, no reply. The next day I check and ask “Hows your day?” and no answer. A few days go by and I’m like “Hey, are you okay?” and no response. This guy had really expressed feelings for me so it was odd that he would just disappear. Fast forward MONTHS later out of boredom I set up a Kijiji ad that said “Free N-64 to whoever leaves me the best Taylor Swift impression voicemail” and left his number as the contact number (Because I’m petty AF). A few days later I sent him a Taylor Swift meme on Facebook and he was like THAT WAS YOU! Then he broke down and told me why he ghosted: He had become a Jehovah’s witness and thought I was too tempting, and also his ex had called him saying she had a secret abortion of his baby and he went into a deep depression and didn’t talk to anyone for months. Needless to say, I declined when he said he wanted to try things again.”

The third story is on the more positive side, which comes from Natasha. The following user was introverted and never believed in making any friends or being in any relationships. One day, his best friend, who happens to be quite a dating expert, suggested to find him an online date for Friday night. However, Natasha was very against this idea because she wanted to find her prince charming in a more romantic way. As the two best friends argued, they decided to try it out since Natasha had not had any luck finding any dates on her own. They made Natasha an account on Match.com. The following day, Natasha had a match with a charming man asking her out to dinner this weekend. She agreed, even though she felt uncomfortable when another person paid for her and took her out with the chance of getting ghosted, as it has happened to her before. The day of their date, she arrived 10 minutes early. He only arrived half an hour later. He apologised for being late, as he had gotten pulled over for speeding and the cop gave him a hard time. They ended up talking for hours and began to really like each other’s company. After seeing each other for over 2 years, they knew they were perfect for one another and got married. They ended up having a beautiful 6 month old daughter. Natasha hates to admit that she met her husband on an online dating website, but she is also extremely grateful for the day she put herself out there. She is now blessed with a beautiful family due to her date from Match.com.

This story is from the Twitter user @SingleintheSou1. After matching with a guy she bonded with over Football on Hinge, they exchanged phone numbers. They had planned to meet the following week, as they had not met yet. While they were texting, she got pretty upset over him mentioning he had been on a date the previous weekend…

She ended up ghosting him over the matter, which led to a debate over whether or not she was in the right or wrong.

He proceeds to question her about whether or not she was speaking to other guys. The debate on Twitter reveals that many users agree with the guy who got ghosted, due to the fact that people who are dating are allowed to date as many people as they want until they decide to get into a serious relationship. The text messages hold valid points defending this argument, such as the idea of speaking to multiple women in case one of them decides to ghost him.

The following online dating story is shared by an anonymous user. On the second meeting with her man, she invited him over to her house with the conditions that he would leave as soon as it got dark. When the sun set, the man did not leave and instead snuck around to finish a bottle of alcohol that was in his backpack. He began to slur his words and would not leave. As he was too drunk to use public transport, she tried to drive him home but he would not tell her the address. She demanded to see his wallet to look at his ID and get his address, but he pulled out a tin of Altoids instead. She believed that he was pretending to be drunk, until she finally got fed up and dropped him off at a Dicks in his neighborhood because he didn’t know where he lived and was only speaking nonsense. When he got out, he stumbled into the street and parking lot without looking. She went back home and realized that he forgot his backpack. She then finds his wallet with his ID, the death certificate of his child who had committed suicide, and some key papers. The next day, she brought him back his belongings and ended up giving him another chance. She still regrets it to this day.

This next story comes from a female Tinder member who is still fuming till this day. She started seeing this guy she met on Tinder and they ended up agreeing to be exclusive. All of a sudden, he just stopped texting her and she has absolutely no idea what she did wrong. As most girls would do, her and her friends stalked his social media accounts only to find a SEPARATE Instagram account.

This account exposed that he has a girlfriend and that they were together in Cuba at that very moment. Why would he ask her to be exclusive if he had another girlfriend?! She was absolutely blindsided but did not say a word. About a week after ghosting her, she received a text from him saying “I miss you” WHILE he was still on vacation with his girlfriend. She sent back a screenshot of his instagram account with his girlfriend and a “F*ck You” text, followed by blocking his accounts.

Finally, this last story is from the Twitter user BARTY. She has shared her most hilarious and also weirdest date experience. She had her first real date with this guy that she met online. They met on social media and in no time they began to know each other very well. After some days they planned to go for a movie on the coming weekend. The actual hilarious story begins here when they both reach exactly on time and soon realise that none of them had purchased the ticket in advance because of this reason they couldn’t manage to get two tickets next to each other. Finally they ended up sitting on the opposite sides of the theater. After the movie they did not ever meet again. Barty expresses this as her weirdest date she ever had.

Nowadays, online dating can be very unpredictable. Some online dates end in marriage and a beautiful family, while many others end in getting ghosted or even “cloaked”. Although many users prefer meeting a significant other in person at an event or out on a stroll, it cannot be ignored that online dating has facilitated the dating world and how we interact and meet compatible matches. Many people would agree that this is for the best, while many other users on Twitter share the same opinion that Online Dating Applications are actually ruining relationships. The reasoning behind this is that online dating users find it harder to settle down with one individual due to there being an abundance of other dating profiles waiting for them to swipe right if something doesn’t work out. Dating has never been easier, or harder as other users would say.

The post Best and Worst Online Dating Stories from 2025 appeared first on 514Blog.

27 Best Take-Out and Delivery Restaurants In Montreal

Brinda Thakarar — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:42:25 +0000

Being a multicultural city, Montreal is famous for its many cuisines. Besides the must-try dishes: bagels, smoked meat, orange julep or poutine, a number of restaurants offers a variety of incredible dishes. It is well known that in Montreal, weekends are for foodies. The situation, however, has changed entirely, busy restaurants have become quiet and weekends have become dull due to sudden outbreak of the pandemic.

Most restaurants have agreed to stop hosting and some have opted to swap to delivery or take-out services for public’s convenience.

So if you live in Montreal and you are tired of cooking every day here are the best 27 restaurants for take-out and home delivery:

1. La Capital Tacos

Like other restaurants, La Capital Tacos are currently being restructured from a dine-in to 100% delivery / take-out methods. Visit the Website for more information for take out orders .

La Capital Taco’s taqueria offers the same regular menu, plus their price reduction menu which includes a party tray in various choices, tortillas and condiments for making your tacos. The portion is for a group of 4. They are receiving positive customer reviews. People are imaginative in making their taco nights, loving their michelada pack, even designing their dishes with the extra they order, including breakfast tacos.

2. Boustan

Boustan is the best place which serves exotic Middle East and Mediterranean flavours. In this phase of public health crisis, Boustan has kept most of their places open for take-out and accepts online orders as well.

You could directly order either from their website or through the delivery apps: Uber Eats, SkipTheDishes, or DoorDash.

3. Pizza Mama Sofia

Pizza Mama Sofia works differently, creating a pizza with a combination of different toppings which the customer selects according to their preference. In addition, customers are given the opportunity to bake the Pizza at their home that has being prepared at Mama Sofia. This place is affordable and also they do not take taxes there.

Mama Sofia remains open between 3:00 to 8:00pm therefore you can directly walk-in, or you can directly order your pizza at you doorsteps. Visit Facebook Page to get more information, reviews or contact Pizza Mama Sofia.

4. Rawesome

Rawesome offers vegan organic gluten-free cheesecakes along with plant-based cashew cream cheeses, which is fantastic as side dishes or to cook with! The products are available at Rachelle-Béry, IGA, Avril supermarkets, marchés TAU stores.

Rawesome also accepts orders placed online in and around Montreal.

Click here to order online, they do have the following promotional code: free shipping with orders over $60.

They are working currently to support the elderly and front-line healthcare staff, please visit their Facebook page for more information.

5. SpiceBros

Well, if you are a spice lover then SpiceBros is for you, they provide Indian cuisine along with a modern twist.

For the health and safety of their staff, visitors and general public, SpiceBors has opted to switch to online take-out orders and also customers can visit the restaurant and order food.

In the meantime you can also search for SpiceBros on all delivery platforms such as Ubereats, Foodora, doordash and order your food.

Click here to ORDER online.

Check out the latest Promotions and updated Menu.

6. Mandy’s Gourmet Salads

To both the eyes and the tastebuds, Mandy’s Gourmet Salads are a treat, so if you are missing Mandy’s salads or their famous chocolate chip cookies here they are for you.

Mandy’s is offering delivery all over Montreal via UberEats, A la Carte Express and Foodora. Also you can place your pickup orders through phone or using their app available on all platforms and smartphones.

Visit Mandy’s website for more information including delivery of grocery items and food baskets.

7. Damas

Damas, a well known restaurant in Montreal, has continued to serve their customers through limited take-out and delivery service.

So if you are missing Dama’s Hot and Cold Mezzes, Charcoal grilled dishes or desserts, here are good news, the new opening hours of Damas will be from Wednesday to Sunday 4PM to 8PM, Orders through phone (514 439-5435) will be accepted from 12PM – 7PM.

Visit Take-Out Menu for a detailed Damas Menu.

8. Le 5e Cafe

Since 2017, Le 5e cafe has served the best coffee, and a range of dishes: sandwich, smoothie, dessert, salads and a brunch on Saturdays and Sundays which are a must try. Now you can get these dishes at your home through one click via delivery apps.

The 5th is available for rental for private events every day during opening hours and after the café closes.The rental cost for room is $250 during open hours and $50 for extra hours.

During this time when we are quarantined in our home, we can easily order online the best food icons of Le 5e. Here you can have a look at the menu and order online. The online shopping hours are from Tuesday to Friday (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) Saturday (9:00 am to 3:00 pm).

9. Sweet Lee’s

Sweet Lee’s is a renowned bakery, serving variety of fresh and delicious products to their customers. The restaurant is not only famous for its taste but also for the quality of food that they provide. Sweet lee’s offers other services like catering, they also accepts special orders for small or large gatherings or special events.

For now Sweet Lee’s has modified their menu and ordering process keeping in mind the unexpected epidemic outbreak. The store will remain open from Thursday to Sunday (9:00 am to 5:00pm ).

Click Here for the menu for the week.

However, this menu will be updated every week by Monday/Tuesday. To get the updates visit their website.

Sweet Lee’s is available to take orders in advance through Phone ( (514) 846-9318) or Email also they offer local delivery. You can also opt for online delivery options via UberEats and Skip the Dishes.

10. Aux Vivres

Aux Vivres has been preparing delicious vegan dishes for Montrealers for the last twenty years. Bowls and wraps are the most traditional dishes prepared here. Other products included are sauces, proteins, snacks, and desserts, you can easily order online through their website.

New service named Grocery Direct has been started by Aux Vivres, which will provide locally made groceries delivered to your door!

To learn more go to click here.

11. Omnivore

Omnivore offers healthy, affordable and tantalizing dishes inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, including grilled kafta skewers, vegetarian mezes & fresh juices.

Omnivore St Laurent and Omnivore St Denis are open monday to saturday noon to 9pm for pickup, delivery and take out and branch at 1 place ville marie is closed. Omnivore also provides food delivery through Ubereats, Foodora and A la carte express.

Tap here to get the Omnivore menu.

12. Well

If you’d like to try a totally homemade original-like meal, Well is the ideal place.You will have plenty of options before you jump on a conclusion,”carnivorous, vegan, gourmet, gluten-free.

It opens from 8:00 am till 3:00 pm every Monday to Sunday. However, timing may vary because of COVID-19. For menu or contact details please visit the website.

13. Blackstrap BBQ

Blackstrap’s BBQ is southern style barbecue. Here the BBQ is served on a first-come, first-served basis as they prepare the quantity as much as the smokers can bear.

Eat in, take out and home delivery options (Uber Eats and Foodora) are available throughout the week.

Reheating instructions for people who have chosen to carry out or deliver home are provided on the website.

14. La Banquise

Who does not like Poutine? Well, I am sure everybody loves it! So, here is the best place where you can really seek.

La Banquise is a place offering a variety of food dishes but Poutine is their specialty.

Due to COVID-19 the opening hours have changed to 11:00 am to 1:00 am. But no worries as they offer to deliver food online through UberEats and Doordash. You can contact the restaurant through the email address and phone number provided in the website.

15. Uniburger

Whenever I think about the best burger in Montreal the only name that comes to my mind is “Uniburger”. As being quarantined many people might have missed Uniburger but no worries, here they are with online food delivering service. They are on numerous online food delivering platforms like: Uber Eats, Foodora, Skip the dishes.

Tap on MENU to get the Uniburger menu, select and order your food.

16. Schwartz’s

This place is special because there is nothing like it. Not exactly vegetarian-friendly Schwartz’s is one of those must-do locations in Montreal. The smoked meat sandwich is stacked to the point of exploding. Tender, juicy with a perfect combination of spices. It’s as simple as that. Order medium. It’s the best.

Schwartz’s – Montreal Deli
3895 Boul. Saint-Laurent
Montréal QC H2W 1X9

17. Brit & Chips

Brit & Chips combines the best elements of traditional Chippy, incorporating some of Montreal’s local flavour and style. The effect, however, is a beautiful blend of the best Britain has to offer, with a little Quebec spice.

You can find the best menu

The menu includes a variety of dishes and combos.

Brit & Chips accepts online orders via Foodora.

18. Barroco

Barroco offers Appetizers and Main course meals but for now Barroco is closed for dine-in, but you can still choose to take-out or deliver home.

You can choose to call (514 544-5800) Barroco and place an order for pick-up, as well as you can choose to get food delivered at your place through Uber Eats or Doordash.

The restaurant remains open from Thursday to Sunday from 5:00 to 9:00 pm.

19. Pizza Pizza

For pizza lovers There’s no better feeling in the world than a warm pizza box on your lap. Pizza pizza is very popular across Canada Since 1967 they’ve been making fantastic pizza.

Along the way, they have expanded from coast to coast to more than 750 restaurants, becoming a respected brand and pioneer in the food service industry,since you are home and quarantined why not order the tastiest pizza.

Order your pizza right away and yes, you can also opt for take out.

20. Five Guys

The first five guys restaurant opened in 1986, since then it’s been 30 years and now

There are currently 1,500 locations worldwide, they are very popular for their Burgers and the fact is they only use fresh ground beef and they make everything in peanut oil.

They are available for delivery and pick-up orders, tap to place online order .

21. Station Cafe W

Station W is the place that will always make you feel at home. Reason for your visit may vary, whether it is dinner with friends, visit for team work or just hang out for coffee, but the service and taste will be the same, and as always fresh. The must try product here is grilled-cheese also there are other homemade prodects with you would wanna try are pastries, sandwiches, salads-meals and obviously coffee.

Well, due to COVID-19 the cafe remained closed, but it is going to reopen from 1st May. The place will remain open from 9:00 am to 4:00pm therefor you can either visit the place for take out or you can opt for Online Delivery

22. Restaurant Les Pyrenees

The restaurant les pyrenees has a wonderful symbioses in between french and spanish culinary cultures. The Restaurant honours the Basque Country and Catalonia with its Paella, Cassoulet, Tuna and Seafood specialties.

Eat in and take out services are available in the restaurant, whereas for now no delivery options are available. Visit website for more details

23. L’Avenue

Restaurant L’Avenue has been a pure and simple spot for brunch and banquet lovers since 1994. L’Avenue is more than just a fine dining experience.

You can visit any of the four branches located in Montreal, or If you wish to order or get more information about the restaurant, click on Contact

24. Bombay Mahal

The restaurant located at Jean-Talon serves delicious Indian dishes, in a cosy atmosphere that pays homage to India’s rich cultural heritage. You can find a variety of mouth watering dishes available in the menu.

Well, you can’t enjoy the restaurant atmosphere because of the epidemic but you can still enjoy delicious food. Just a click on your food delivering apps as doordash, uber eats, foodora and skip the dishes and you will get your food delivered at your doorsteps.

25. Le Diplomate

This restaurant offers a casual dining experience and a wine bar for those who like it. There is a small room with seating arrangement next to the bar. Due to COVID-19 Le Diplomate has modified serving functions to pick up. Their updated menu will be posted on their website as well as their Instagram and Facebook page.

Le Diplomate has a special offer that gives a 20% -25% discount on every wine if you buy a case of six or more.

26. Bistro L’Entrepont

The Bistro L’Entrepont has been open since 1985 and offers a variety of cuisine with a menu that differs according to the season. Bistro servies five varieties in their menu including desserts.

There are no changes in the restaurant’s opening hours, so you can always contact the restaurant before you visit, as timings may differ due to COVID-19.

Here you can check the Timetable and Menu.

27. Philinos Restaurant

The Philinos Restaurant is located near Parc, Mount Royal. Phillinos name itself suggests, “Friends of Wine”. All their dishes are inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, using fresh ingredients. They have dine in and reservation facilities, you can call (514-271-9099) them directly or fill out their Online Booking Form for reservation.

The post 27 Best Take-Out and Delivery Restaurants In Montreal appeared first on 514Blog.

Le top 10 des meilleurs magasins pour acheter vos plantes à Montréal

Eric Jocelyn — Sun, 25 May 2025 19:12:18 +0000

Elles ajoutent du style à votre appartement, maison ou condo. Elles vous apportent un côté exotique et une certaine paix d’esprit. Éh oui, les plantes sont devenues bien plus qu’un simple accessoire de décoration intérieure. Ces merveilleuses beautés de la nature sont littéralement une extension de votre personnalité au sein de votre intérieur.

Montréal étant une ville offrant une végétation au rythme des quatre saisons (printemps, automne, hiver et été), il serait donc très difficile de ne pas y retrouver une grande variété de magasins de plantes intérieures de toutes sortes.

Vous vous êtes sûrement déjà demandé “Quelles plantes correspondent le mieux avec la déco de mon salon ?… “Où pourrais-je acheter des plantes au meilleur rapport qualité-prix à Montréal ?” Pas de panique, on a répertorié pour vous les meilleurs magasins de plantes à Montréal.

Evasia

3956 rue Ontario Est, Montréal

(514) 528-8416

Facebook: Evasia

Instagram

Le magasin Évasia est l’endroit rêvé pour trouver les plantes les plus rares. Vous y trouverez des espèces arrivées à maturité et certaines plantes vieilles de vingt ans. Le magasin est familial et le personnel est expert et passionné. Le personnel maîtrise l’entretien, les bienfaits et les caractéristiques des plantes. Sur place, vous serez séduits par une panoplie d’accessoires pour donner vie à vos choix de plantes.

Alma Plantes

Tiré du mot latin “Alma” (âme), l’idée selon laquelle les plantes ont une âme est l’essence même de ce magasin. On y retrouve des plantes pleine de vie que vous pouvez cultiver, soigner, aimer. Les accessoires et les produits connexes de qualité au sein du magasin sont majoritairement fabriqués localement. Pour le plus grand plaisir des amoureux du Made in Québec.

350 Avenue Duluth Est, Montréal

(514) 564-2652

Facebook: Alma Plantes

Instagram

Jungle fleur

Leurs plantes et fleurs sont cultivées à 45 minutes de Montréal dans un magnifique jardin expérimental. Vous tomberez sur toutes les sortes de plantes qui nous accompagnent pendant l’année dans notre quotidien tout au long des 4 saisons. Un des rares magasins de plantes à offrir une grande variété de fleurs séchées localement et naturellement. Ils vous offrent un service d’abonnement et d’inscription en ligne.

2019 rue Moreau, local 102, Montréal

(514) 868-8854

Facebook: Jungle fleur

Instagram

Le jardin de Mathilde

Le Jardin de Mathilde offre d’originaux arrangements floraux, parfait pour agrémenter votre déco. Avec leur grande variété de plantes d’intérieur, des plantes vertes, aux plantes grasses, aux plantes à fleurs, sans oublier les cactus, vous serez amplement gâtés avec tous ces choix ! Ce magasin est le parfait choix pour des couronnes d’eucalyptus et des arrangements de fleurs séchées de rêve.

4507 Avenue de Lorimier, Montréal

(514) 379-1968

Facebook: Le jardin de Mathilde

Instagram

Binette & filles

Si vous habitez dans la zone du marché jean-talon, Binette & filles est un incontournable. On y retrouve des plantes d’intérieurs parmi une vaste variété, locales du Québec et d’ailleurs, de qualité. Les conseillers de Binette & filles vous trouveront les plantes adaptées à votre déco. Pour chaque achat, les experts sur place vous proposeront des pots, des engrais, et même des insecticides pour vos plantes d’intérieur.

7070 Avenue Henri-Julien, Montréal

(514) 271-6789

Facebook: Binette &filles fleuristes marché jean-talon

Instagram

Vertuose

Pour vous qui voudriez allier les plantes avec des design et des arrangements haut de gamme, le magasin de plantes est le parfait endroit pour vous. Leurs magnifiques créations sont constamment avant-gardistes et donneront à votre place, le look classe et moderne que vous recherchez. Bien que la boutique Vertuose offre les commandes en ligne, un petit détour à la boutique sur le boulevard Saint-Laurent en vaut franchement la peine pour admirer leurs spécialités en design végétal 😉

5409 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montréal

(514) 276-4048

Facebook: Vertuose Mtl

Instagram

Plantzy

Plantzy est une véritable école des plantes d’intérieur. Bien qu’étant principalement un site web transactionnel, le magasin Plantzy vous offre un large éventail de plantes d’intérieur classées par catégorie. Parmi ces catégories on a les catégories comme par exemple “plantes pour débutants”, “plantes usant d’une faible luminosité” ou “plantes suspendues” pour ne citer que celles-ci. Dans un souci de vous éduquer et de vous transmettre leur passion pour les plantes d’intérieur, Plantzy vous offre des cours à son atelier du Mile-end.

5445 Avenue de Gaspé, local 315, Montréal

(514) 250-5381

Facebook: Plantzy

Instagram

Planterra

Ce magasin est le plus gros importateur de plantes tropicales du Québec. Si vous voulez une déco intérieure aux allures tropicales dans votre logement, Planterra sera l’endroit idéal où vous procurer vos plantes tropicales. Situé dans l’ouest de Montréal, les conseillers de la boutique sont spécialisés en aménagement paysager intérieur. Et ce autant pour des logements de particuliers que pour des commerces. Alors laissez la verdure entrer dans votre place car vous serez entre de bonnes mains !

2275 chemin saint-françois, Dorval

1-877-684-1711

Facebook: Planterra Ltee.

Instagram

Miss Boon

Cette boutique est un véritable petit coin de paradis pour les amateurs de plantes rares venant d’Asie. Les employés y sont très chaleureux, à l’écoute et prêts à orienter vos choix vers vos goûts. Le personnel y offre également des consultations personnalisées pour vous guider avec “l’aménagement végétal de votre logement”.

8527 rue Drolet, Montréal

(514) 922-1801

Facebook: Miss Boon boutique végétale

Instagram

Kyoto fleurs

Kyoto fleurs vous charmera par la convivialité de sa propriétaire mais également par le sentiment de “chez soi” lorsqu’on est dans le magasin. Il vous propose plusieurs choix de plantes d’intérieur, d’orchidées, de bonsaï, ainsi que des services de confection de fleurs et plantes par type d’occasion. Si vous voulez vivre une expérience d’achat “cozy” comme si vous étiez déjà à la maison, Kyoto fleurs vous assure cela grâce à son service-conseil pointu.

1893 Avenue Mont-Royal Est, Montréal

(514) 522-6555

Facebook: Kyoto fleurs

Instagram

The post Le top 10 des meilleurs magasins pour acheter vos plantes à Montréal appeared first on 514Blog.

Best 15 Speakeasy Bars in Montreal

Amanda Wang — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 23:23:16 +0000

Prohibition Era. The period that was aimed to plug the booze consumption did everything but that. Fuelled by curiosity and demand, people across Canada and the USA were looking for a safe space to spend their spare time. Enter speakeasy bars. Shrouded in secrecy and mystique, speakeasy bars, that were hidden in plain sight, became infamous as people could unwind in peace in these spaces.

Though the Prohibition Era has ceased, the popularity of speakeasy bars didn’t fade. With the opportunity to relive history, speakeasy bars have regained prominence as the allure of mystique elevates the experience. And even if you aren’t looking for a prohibition-inspired bar, these hangout places are worth exploring for the vibe (and also to brag: Been there, done that!). Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the top speakeasy bars you should visit when you are in Montreal or if you want to impress your date.

Cloakroom Bar

Tucked away in the Golden Square Mile of Montreal, Cloakroom Bar is a cozy bar that’s hidden inside Maison Cloakroom, a tailoring store. What sets it apart from the rest of the bars is its no-menu approach and the unparalleled range of vintage spirits. All you need to do is walk in, without reservation, and sit back and enjoy the exceptional cocktail they stir up for you.

You can soak in their ambiance here: https://www.instagram.com/thecloakroombar/?hl=en
and find them here: 2175 rue de la Montagne, Montreal, Quebec H3G1Z8.

You can contact them at: info@cloakroombarmtl.com

Stillife

Relatively modern, Stillife is for those who want to enjoy their drinks without any frills and distractions. Situated in the basement of a former warehouse, the bar is shrouded in relaxing darkness and rough-hewn walls. Featuring DJs’ and a calming vibe, Stillife is the bar you need to be at for a memorable date or to unwind with your buddies.

Do look up their bar at: https://www.instagram.com/stillifemtl/

And find the not-so-secretive location at 640 St-Paul O, Montreal, Quebec H3C1L9

Reach out to them at +1 514-750-7676

Atwater Cocktail Club

Sporting an unimpressive entrance, Atwater is a gem in the rough as the bar is located behind Foiegwa restaurant. But once inside, prepared to be impressed by the welcoming ambiance. Adorned with mirrored ceilings and swanky couches, Atwater will leave you flying high, thanks to their cocktails and speakeasy theme.

See for yourself at: https://www.instagram.com/atwatercocktailclub/?hl=en
and prepare to be impressed at 512 Atwater, Montreal, Quebec

Contact them at 438-816-8938

BAR – Big in Japan

Hiding behind an easy-to-miss door, BAR is anything but easy to forget once you are in. Although it is a speakeasy bar, the BAR features ambiance enough to take someone on a date. From velvety curtains to old Japanese bottles as fixtures, BAR – Big in Japan is Instagram-worthy and should be on your bucket list.

Check out the vibe at: https://www.instagram.com/biginjapan_bar/?hl=en

And take the Instagram-worthy snaps at 4175 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, Quebec

Call them at +1 438-380-5658

Magpie Magique

The red lighting at Magpie Magique creates the mysterious, risky vibe of the Prohibition Era. The high back chairs and thick curtains make Magpie a secluded place to hang out with friends. Inspired by bars around the globe, Magpie Magique helps you travel back to the forgotten era with music and delectable cocktails.

See the vibe for yourself at: https://www.instagram.com/magpiemagiquemtl/

And relive the Prohibition Era at 380 Rue Gilford, Montreal,

Contact them at 514-759-6247

Le 4e Mur

This speakeasy bar is different from the others as you also get to become a detective by following murder mystery clues in the bar. Adorned with brick walls, Le 4e Mur provides a relaxing atmosphere with its dimly lit ambiance. Right from the entrance to the meticulously curated menu, Le 4e Mur is worth your time when you are in Montreal. And, the murder mystery, coupled with the drinks, keeps the conversation flowing when you are on a date.

Soak in the ambiance at: https://www.instagram.com/4emur/

And solve the murder mystery at 2021 Saint-Denis St, Montreal, Quebec

Make the reservations at 438-396-8947

The Coldroom Bar

The Coldroom Bar is a hidden world that can be accessed by ringing the bell next to the black door. Coldroom bagged the Best International Bar Team and has been thronged by many well-known celebrities.

The vibe can be checked out at: https://www.instagram.com/thecoldroommtl/?hl=en

And ring the bell at Rue Saint-Amable x Rue Saint-Vincent, Montreal, QC

Contact them at info@thecoldroommtl.com

Nhậu Bar

Beautiful Vietnamese lanterns adorn this basement bar and it reflects a particularly serene vibe. The bar is located under the Hà restaurant and it features a wide range of cocktails that shall make you want to come back to Nhậu Bar.

The lively atmosphere can be checked out at https://www.instagram.com/nhaubar/

Experience the vibe at 600 rue William, Montreal, Quebec

Call them at (514)-379-4111

Club Pelicano

Nestled at the heart of Montreal’s business hub, you can find Club Pelicano in the basement area under Tiradito, a Peruvian bar. Club Pelicano features a Mediterranean menu and disco evenings that are spiced up by a DJ.

Feel the energy at https://www.instagram.com/clubpelicanomtl/

Dive into the rhythm at 1076 Rue de Bleury Suite 001, Montreal, Quebec

Contact them at +1 514-861-1515

N Sur Mackay

Prepare to be impressed by the warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s elevated by the warm lighting of the speakeasy bar. From chandeliers to the wooden cabinets of booze, N Sur Mackay is popular for its friendly staff and vintage vibes.

Check out the timeless vibe here https://www.instagram.com/n_on_mackay/

And enjoy the vibe here at 1244 Mackay, Montreal, Quebec

Gokudo

Gokudo is a Japanese-themed speakeasy bar that sports a contemporary vibe and features East Asian food items. As Gokudo means one path, this speakeasy bar is your pathway to soak in the Japanese vibes.

Tap into the Asian vibes here https://www.instagram.com/gokudo_mtl/?hl=en

And explore the Japanese bar here 630 RUE CATHCART, MONTRÉAL, QC

Call them at 514-375-371

Le Petit Secret

Le Petit Secret features a reflective ceiling that bears the semblance of a starry sky. Awash with reddish hues, the secretive bar requires a passcode to enter the bar, that reflects back alley vibes. Don’t hesitate to soak in the vibes at this bar where you can also party at.

Feel the pulse at https://www.instagram.com/petitsecret_rosemont/?hl=en

And party at 806 Boul. Rosemont, Montréal, QC

Contact them at 438.504-8080

Bar Le Mal Nécessaire

Having been in the business for a decade, Bar Le Mal Nécessaire has the passion to become Canada’s premier bar. Additionally, the speakeasy bar has a focus on sustainability, making it a splendid option for partying while being ecologically friendly.

Explore it at https://www.instagram.com/lemalnecessaire/?hl=en

Party responsibly at 1015 St Alexander St. Montreal, Quebec

Milky Way Cocktail Bar

Unlike the other speakeasy bars, Milky Way has an airy ambiance with its transparent roof that is decorated with lights that mimic the magnificence of the Milky Way galaxy. The laidback vibe and starry ambiance take you to new heights while you sip their unique cocktails.

Soak in the galactic vibes at https://www.instagram.com/milkywaycocktails/?hl=en

And sip their cocktails at 1886 rue Centre #2, Montreal, Quebec

It is a no-reservations bar.

Shout to: Bootlegger (though not a speakeasy bar)

With ambiance enough to pass off as a speakeasy bar, Bootlegger is a cocktail bar that specializes in whiskey and absinthe libations. The venue has hosted a variety of events from comedy shows to jazz performances.

Explore the venue at https://www.instagram.com/bootleggercocktailbar/

Hangout at 3481 St Laurent, Montreal, Quebec

Call them at (438) 383-2226

The post Best 15 Speakeasy Bars in Montreal appeared first on 514Blog.

Top 10 Best Tango Schools in Montreal

Amanda Wang — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 04:52:07 +0000

Montreal is the multicultural epicentre of Quebec, and one of the most diverse cities in the world. You can walk from one neighborhood to another and feel like you’re in a different city, and even sometimes as if you are in Buenos Aires.

Tango is a partner dance and social dance that originated in the 188s along the Río de la Plata, the river that separates Argentina and Uruguay. Tango was born in the impoverished port areas of Buenos Aires, as a result of a combination of Rioplatense Candombe celebrations, Spanish-Cuban Habanera, and Argentinean Milonga.

The tango was frequently practiced in the brothels and bars of ports, where business owners employed bands to entertain their patrons with music. The tango then spread to the rest of the world. Many variations of this dance currently exist around the world.

For those eager to learn and enjoy this sensual and romantic dance, we have compiled the list of top 10 best tango schools and studios in Montreal.

1. Cosy Montreal

Located in Ville-Emard, just few steps from Metro Monk. Cosy is a world class Tango, Salsa, Bachata dance school, frequently sending students and teachers to participate in international tournaments. Founder and owner Santiago Gimenez aka TangoMan dedicated his life to this art!

Teachers Missy et Alexander, who are also semi finalist at Revolution TVA, are happy to offer beginner classes to those ready to dive into the world of Tango. If you are already a ‘connoisseur’ no need to worry, there is something for everybody at Cosy. Special events are organized on a regular basis where you can show off your talent or just enjoy and have fun.

https://cosy-montreal.com/

Facebook

Tel: (438) 378-3571

2. Studio Tango Montreal

Studio Tango Montréal boasts a relaxed and easy-going environment, a dynamic team of professional teachers, and the most complete program of Argentine Tango classes in North America today.

Passionate about teaching, their talented team is dedicated to bringing out the very best in each and every student from the absolute beginner level all the way up to the most ultra-advanced!

https://studiotango.ca/

Phone: (514) 844-2786

3. École de tango argentin Las Piernas

The Las Piernas Argentine tango school is a non-profit organization that has been teaching in this great city of ours since 2011, at the same time elegant, sensual, and passionate with a completely original, organic and fun approach. Let’s face it, if you are not having fun, you will not learn!

https://laspiernastango.ca/

Address: 505 Rue Jean-Talon E, Montréal, QC H2R 1T6
Phone: (514) 568-6646

4. Tango Libre

Another pioneer of Tango dancing for nearly 20 years has been the dance company Tango Libre, they have been promoting and of course teaching Argentine tango to the general public, which they have done so through teaching and also by organising diverse shows. Innovation is definitely a great part of Tango Libre! They have also made sure they are up to date and hip with all the modern rends in this field!

http://tangolibre.ca/

Address: 1650 Marie-Anne St E, Montreal, Quebec H2X 2E1
Phone: (514) 527-5197

5. Tangueria

Started in 1991 The Tangueria is a great little studio located in Saint-Laurent Boulevard in Montreal. To make it easy 1993, the Studio changed its name to the Tangueria and in no time became “THE PLACE” in Montreal for Tango and other form of dancing. They have been offering great activities and teaching with passion Argentine Tango since 2004. It is their passion for this form of art that makes them stand out!

http://www.tangueria.org/

Address: 6394 Rue St-Hubert, Montréal, QC H2S 2M2
Phone: (514) 495-8645

6. Le studio 2720

One of the largest multidisciplinary schools in Canada. Fot more than 40 years they have been a strong leader in the social and Latin dance in Montreal. This facility has trained lot of champions in this who in turn offer this to the public. Make sure not to give them a visit when you are on the search!

https://www.studio2720.com/

Address: 2720 Rue des Ormeaux, Montréal, QC H1L 4X7
Phone: (514) 354-2210

6. La Maison du Tango

La Maison du Tango offers group and private courses in most areas of Montreal & Laval. At the studio or at home. Argentine Style: Milonga, Tango, Waltz

https://www.lamaisondutango.com/

Address: 7250 Rue St-Hubert, Montréal, QC H2R 2N1
Phone: (514) 441-9447

7. Mon Tango

MonTango was founded in 2007 and officially opened their doors of studio in 2008. Located in N.D.G., they are the only Argentine tango school in the city’s west end. Over the years they have built a reputation for having a warm and friendly atmosphere as well as a great musical selection at their milongas, and an excellent team of instructors who are at once expert and approachable.

http://www.montango.ca/

Facebook

Address: 5588A Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H4A 1W3
Phone: (514) 486-5588

7. San Tropez Dance School

San tropez offers lessons in Latin dance styles such as Tango, Salsa, Kizomba, Bachata, and more to beginners and advanced dancers alike. The studio is recognized for a personal approach and its professional and friendly atmosphere. They are a beautiful family!

https://latindance.net/

Address: 1222 Peel St, Montreal, Quebec H3B 2T6
Phone: (514) 871-8852

9. Latin Groove

Well rated dance school where you can take salsa, bachata, kizomba, fitness classes and much more. For beginners to the multi advanced with or without a partner, group or private lessons. Since 1998, Latin Groove has provided not only quality dance lessons but has formed one of Montreal’s largest dance community.

With weekly dance socials on Friday nights as well as many events all around the city, Latin Groove has created a family.

https://latingroove.ca/

Address: 1184 Saint-Catherine St W 4ème étage, Montreal
Phone: (514) 927-2572

10. DANCE CONMIGO

Dedicated to creating a warm environment in which to learn, Dance Conmigo teaches and promotes many of today’s most popular dances including Argentine Tango, Salsa, Social Ballroom and West Coast Swing.

https://www.danceconmigo.com/

Address: 9 Rue Sainte-Catherine E #2, Montréal, QC H2X 1K3
Phone: (514) 510-1374

The post Top 10 Best Tango Schools in Montreal appeared first on 514Blog.

Top 8 Salsa Dancing Spots in Montreal

514blog — Wed, 24 May 2023 20:49:11 +0000

Baila con Gusto (Thursdays)

Baila con Gusto Montreal is the most popular and glamorous weekly salsa/bachata party in downtown Montreal. It is hosted by the owners of Espace des Arts (9 Rue Sainte-Catherine Est). 3 rooms. Free dance classes start at 8h30pm. Shows at 11pm.

Click Here: bailacongusto

Bachata Nights on Tuesdays (Bachata)

Weekly very cool warm and cosey bachata (urbain,romantica & dominicana) event with few salsas and kizombas. Free class from 8:15 to 9:15pm

Night starts at 9:15pm

Facebook

Bachata Nights Montreal
6394 rue st-hubert

La Tipica on Mondays (Bachata)

TIPICA is your unique and festive Mondays dance party where Julie Girar and Sandy Celada bring you the ambience of Dominican Republic. The best of the world of Bachata, with a sparkles of Salsa, Merengue & Dembow.

20h: Bachata Class
21h: TIPICA evening

WHERE:
Le 1370 Bar Villeray, 1370 rue Villeray

Entrance fee for the evening:
$ 7 Entrance fee
$ 12 For class and evening

Cuban Night with a live band at Grozepa every Wednesday !

Located in the heart of Rosemont, with a unique atmosphere and a dynamic and hospitable team, Le Grozépa Brasserie Urbaine is now the not to be missed with Live Cuban music with Trio TCMS & Yordan Martinez directly from Cuba every Wednesday evening starting at 7pm.

Click here: Grozepa website

Instagram

IllumiNights (4 times per year)

Since December 2015, IllumiNights has been coming up with some of the largest and most surprising Latin dance and music events in Canada. Taking place in churches, theaters and some very unusual venues, IllimiNights has been integrating theater, circus, immersive technology and storytelling into events that push the boundaries of imagination.

Click Here: illuminights

Moka (Saturdays afternoon)

Oldest weekly social in Montreal is just pure distilled fun. Every Saturday from 4pm to 8pm at Espaces des Arts (9 Rue Sainte-Catherine Est) DJ Brown Sugar’s bewitching music, (Salsa, Zouk, Kizomba, Bachata & Cha Cha Cha) keeps an awesome group of dancers from a variety of backgrounds, celebrate their love and passion.

Click Here: mokasocials

Jardin Gamelin – Summer Only

For years now, the Salsafolie Events and its fearless, tireless and perpetually entertaining founder and CEO Annie Joubert have been drawing great crowds especially in Summer.

Facebook: Salsafolie
Click Here: www.salsafolie.com

Salsatheque

Salsatheque is Montreal’s oldest latin club with mostly reggaetón and Latino pop music with some salsa and bachata in between. It’s loud, in-your-face and makes no apologies for its flamboyant attitude. Since the late 70s, young and old Latinos have shaken their hips on the illuminated disco dance floor.

Le Social, (weekly)

Every Sunday from 6 PM to 10 PM Le Social is attracting a very cool, cozy and relaxed crowd of veteran dancers in the northern part of Montreal.

Click Here: LeSocialSalsa

The post Top 8 Salsa Dancing Spots in Montreal appeared first on 514Blog.

Top 5 Vegan Restaurants in Montreal for 2019

Amanda Wang — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 16:53:37 +0000

1. LOV Restaurant

The latest addition to Montreal’s vegan-health-conscious-with-a-somewhat-gourmet-culinary dining experience in a real gem in the middle of the city. Elegant atmosphere, white walls, lots of plants and amazing food in a very trendy, upmarket, vibrant environment. Vegan Burger Big LOV
is great as is sweet potato Gnocchi di casa with hemp pesto. Brunch on Saturday and Sunday

www.lov.com

2. Invitation V

Stylish and innovative vegan food in a beautiful space in central Old Montreal. Great atmosphere and amazingly fast service. Tofu Butter Chicken with curry sauce is well seasoned and texture is just perfect. The chickpea burger and chocolate cake are highly recommended.

www.invitationv.com

3. Cafe Lola Rosa

Great vegetarian restaurant for a younger crowd. This location is small but sufficient. Prepare to be very close to other guests if it’s crowded. Busy and full of McGill students. Good selection of dishes, including vegan and gluten-free choices (including deserts). Drinks menu pretty good too. Mid-range price point. Lively atmosphere. The lasagna is out of this world and the chili is world class. Pineapple cheesecake is also amazing.

www.lolarosa.ca

4. Aux Vivres

Aux Vivres was the restaurant that debunked myths people held about vegan food by preparing meals that are flavourful, inspired, fresh, innovative and delicious. This is the ultimate plant-based restaurant in Plateau. Very creative menu with tons of options (bowls, salads, wraps with tempeh and coconut bacon) Fresh ingredients and clear nutritional information. Good coffee.

www.auxvivres.com

5. Copper Branch

Founded in Montreal in 2014 by Rio Infantino who owned several fast-food franchises over a period of about 25 years and ended up suffering from weight and health problems, Rio wanted to create a menu that stood for quality and health. Copper branch is designed to serve quality, healthy and wholesome foods and promote health and great taste.

www.copperbranch.ca

The post Top 5 Vegan Restaurants in Montreal for 2019 appeared first on 514Blog.