Outremont
MontréalIntroduction
As one of the last stand alone “city within the city” in Montreal, Outremont is truly a confluence of old and new in the most organic of ways. Its own municipality until 2000, Outremont’s borders are roughly from Hutchison Avenue to the east to Pratt Avenue to the west, and the rail yards/Bates Avenue to the north and Mount Royal to the south.
Lifestyle
As part of the rich cultural history of Montreal, Outremont is full of artistic gems and historical references. From the Theatre Outremont on Bernard Avenue to countless parks, Outremont Boulevard and strolling along Laurier, it’s an easy place to live, provided one has the means. Hasidim mix with Quebecoise mix with hipsters to bring this area to life.
The Vibe
Walking is the main mode of transportation, and most shopping, whether for food or clothing, is, on foot making it easy to see your neighbours day after day, reinforcing the community feel. Rich with family life, Outremont retains a European feeling with cafes and bakeries, that is chic and approachable.
Meet the Neighbours
There are two distinct communities that make up this neighbourhood, affluent French and Hasidic Jews, and the influence of both of these groups can be felt on both the residential and commercial streets. In the west, predominantly affluent French families live, making use of the public space and creating a true ’village’ vibe
In the Area
More expensive that other neighbouring boroughs, the fare can be cost prohibitive for some with the local grocery store, 5 Saisons, coming in on the higher end of one’s food budget. Restaurants also can run more expensive, but there are classic gems like Lester’s Deli and Cheskie Hamishe Bakery, which make things more accessible to all.
5 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The neighbourhood is accessible via the 40 highway to the north, and has ample public transit including the Parc Avenue bus, the Van Horne bus and the Outremont subway station on the Blue line, located at Van Horne Avenue and Wiseman Avenue. There are also a number of Bixi Bike share stations in the area, as well as CommuneAuto and Car2Go car share areas.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Due to Outremont being the last municipality to amalgamate with the rest of the city much of the neighbourhood’s administration is taken care of at Outremont City Hall — this includes parking permits, moving permits and requests for use of the parks and public spaces for large gatherings.
Dollars & Sense
If it’s nightlife that you’re looking for, this isn’t the neighbourhood for you, but dining out, quality grocery shopping and beautiful house ware and clothing boutiques abound. Shops and restaurants along Laurier Avenue provide a pedestrian paradise for window shoppers, and there is always a treasure to be found.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Lester’s Deli
Family owned and operated for over 60 years, this neighbourhood institution is one of the best places in the city for the quintessential smoked meat. From the karnatzel hanging behind the cash counter to the career wait staff, it is a true piece of Outremont’s history.
more infoPremiere Moison
Part of the Premiere Moison family (the original bakery remains in Jean-Talon Market), this neighbourhood outpost offers the same quality goods and some of the best baguette for blocks.
more infoLe Glacier Bilboquet
For a city that is known for its sub-zero temperatures, it sure loves its ice cream. Local ice creamery Bilboquet is packed during the warmer months, offering flavours from Honey Larande to Choco Chic.
more infoMamie Clafoutis
For something decidedly more European in feel, this bakery located on Van Horne Avenue and is like walking into a little piece of Paris. From pain chocolat to almond croissants and more than 12 varieties of breads, it is the perfect neighbourhood haunt.
more infoLes Touilleurs
Located on Laurier Avenue, this kitchen store is mecca for gourmands and new foodies alike. Offering workshops as well as all possible kitchen tool imaginable, it’s place in the neighbourhood encapsulates the refinement of Outremont.
more infoMichel Brisson
In Montreal, men’s fashion, as well as women’s, get the attention it deserves and this men’s retailer located on Laurier Avenue is the place to shop for luxury men’s wear for fans of the Antwerp Six, or anyone that wants to stand out from the crowd.
more info