Villeray
MontréalIntroduction
Villeray is a small neighbourhood which shares a borough with Parc-Extension and St-Michel in the North East region of Montreal's downtown core. Its northern border is the metropolitan highway 40, while to the South it ends at Jean Talon Street. East to West it runs roughly from Fabre to St-Laurent Street. It's a fairly central neighbourhood
Lifestyle
Villeray is a great place for people living in transition or just straight up renting to live. Rental prices are generally cheaper than elsewhere in the metropolitan zone and downtown core. You can find apartments and newly renovated condos near all the major intersections, while the side streets offer duplexes and triplexes.
The Vibe
At one point, Villeray was little more than a concrete jungle, but these days the area is really picking up. There's plenty of young people moving in and the shops and restaurants are reflecting the new demographic of the neighbourhood. It's not the hippest part of town, but it's moving in that direction.
Meet the Neighbours
Villeray used to be a working-class neighbourhood. While many of those families still live in this area, it's also becoming a popular spot for students since it's fairly close to downtown and great to get around without a car. Culturally, there's a strong Italian community in this area as well as South and Southeast Asian.
In the Area
Like the other neighbourhoods in the area, you'll be sure to spot church spires peeking above the rooftops, no matter where you find yourself. Be sure you bring the camera and snap a few photos. There's also two major parks, sitting on the East and West boundaries of the area, and a farmers market in summer.
8 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Villeray is a great part of town to get around by foot. There's plenty of bus lines along the main arteries and metro stations too. Cycling can be a bit of mixed bag near the highway, but that doesn't stop countless people from embracing their active lifestyle. For drivers, you're right next to the highway and some major boulevards.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Villeray is a concrete-heavy part of town. There's plenty of trees and green space, but a conspicuous lack of front lawns along most of the side streets. As well, the northern edge of the neighbourhood that runs along the highway is in need of some gentrification and upkeep and isn’t too pretty compared to elsewhere.
Dollars & Sense
It's relatively inexpensive to live and enjoy yourself in Villeray. Rent is cheap and there's a handful of fine dining and shopping locations; though most of the time you'll find yourself around cheap eats and discount shopping. In the summer, the farmer's market is open, giving you plenty of options for fresh produce.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Jarry Park
One of the largest parks in Montreal, Jarry Park has a lake, numerous fields and is a good spot to have s barbecue. It houses the old Uniprix Stadium and numerous events during the summer.
more infoCyclopathe
Montreal is home to many diehard cyclists, and this is one of the shops that caters to them. Offering bike repairs, parts, tune-ups and recycled bikes for sale, they are even open during the winter.
more infoHuis Clos
A trendy cocktail bar along St-Denis that specializes in seafood, particularly oysters. They offer platter options and a huge wine menu, making it one of the more fashionable restos in this part of town.
more infoMeson
A Spanish bistro in the heart of Villeray. You can spot it by its slick, minimalist exterior. Inside, it offers a good variety of grilled meat and seafood dishes served over modern, minimal decor.
more infoPatisserie Villeray
There are only a few bakeries in this neighbourhood, but fortunately this one is along one of the main streets. They offer delicious pastries and specialize in Mediterranean desserts like baklava.
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