I must have missed the fine print when I enrolled at McGill. In my first year, when a sworn enemy from high school reached out to me for nightlife recommendations, I realized that accepting my offer of admission also meant accepting an unglamorous, unpaid part-time job as an unofficial tour guide to Montreal.
Residing in a city as unique as Montreal bestows many of us with the lofty responsibility of shaping the visits of all supplicants (friend or foe) who seek our insights. Unfortunately, owing to our student status, it may feel as though the only part of the city we’re truly experts on is the stretch between Docteur Penfield and Sherbrooke. Unwilling to admit our ignorance, we commit the predictable folly of half-heartedly recommending Notre Dame, Crew Cafe, or—perhaps worst of all—the Orange Julep. But Montreal’s reputation—and your own—is in your hands, and it’s not too late for the city to name you employee of the month.
La Banquise
It’s not often that a 24-hour restaurant is poised to impress. Yet, La Banquise can satisfy a tourist’s interest in poutine at any time of day. This humble joint offers a classic poutine for the purists and newcomers, while churning out a menu full of unexpectedly delicious twists like La Paul Pogo—topped with onions, bacon, and, as the name suggests, pieces of Pogo.
Le Violon
Move aside, Joe Beef. Since opening its doors in 2024, Le Violon has taken Canada’s restaurant scene by storm, placing eleventh on the list of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants and becoming the backdrop of an infamous photo of Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau. The menu leans French in spirit but plays freely with seasonal Quebec ingredients, resulting in an elegant rotation of dishes. Thoughtful plating, attentive service, and refined decor make it a solid representative of the contemporary Montreal food scene. While certainly a pricier restaurant by student standards, Le Violon is an excellent recommendation for those who’d like to splurge during their trip.
Pumpui
While Montreal is full of impressive upscale restaurants, it’s also home to a host of hip, casual spots that showcase the city’s culinary creativity. Among this variety, Pumpui is a standout. Seated in the vintage Thai diner-style booths, diners can enjoy a menu of no-frills curries, noodles, and salads that boast authentic flavours and satisfying portion sizes. Plus, the restaurant’s no-reservation policy makes it a great recommendation for a memorable last-minute meal when better-known Montreal restaurants are characteristically fully booked.
Boutique Take Three
Tourists are bound to notice that Montreal is a surprisingly fashionable city. While people-watching, visitors may accidentally catch the shopping bug, and Zara, H&M, and Aritzia are powerless against this Montreal-based strain. Luckily, Boutique Take Three is curating a collection that responds to the city’s fashion needs. This Mile End gem combines meticulously selected second-hand treasures with pieces from local designers, ensuring every find feels both unique and quintessentially Montreal.
Baby Far West
Out of spite, I sent my high school enemy to Unity. But in the two years since then, I’ve reformed. For a true representation of the city’s superb nightlife, I now let travellers know that a Montreal tour should end with a night at Baby Far West. With its top-notch DJs, sultry decor, and perfected cocktails (which are free for ladies every Wednesday), this bar offers more than the ideal space to dance. It’s also a labyrinth of small, intimate rooms, each with its own vibe, perfect for exploring with friends or escaping the dance floor for a brief respite. Whether your visitor is the type to sway to the music, chill on a lavish couch, or wander from room to room, Baby Far West guarantees an unforgettable night to round off a trip to Montreal.
