We’re continuing our blog series “Discovering Montreal” to give you insight into our favourite neighbourhoods in Montreal. For those of you who are new here or even looking to explore various parts of the city, this is the perfect guide for the best stops and shops to check out during your visit! For this week, we’ll be taking a look at Monkland Village which is home to E-QIP Montreal itself.

A Little Bit of History

Monkland Village is situated in the Notre Dame de Grace district, and it lies between Beaconsfield Avenue and Decarie Boulevard, as well as de Terrebonne Street and Cote St-Antoine Road.

The neighbourhood is named after James Monk who worked as an attorney general and a chief justice to the court of the Queen’s Bench. Thanks to an estate that Monk built in 1804, the neighborhood adopted the name Monklands. Eventually, this estate was used as the Governor General’s residence and later as a Catholic girls school.

The Neighbourhoods Today

The neighbourhood has now evolved into a highly-desirable community for young professionals, as well as families. With a plethora of food festivals, outdoor musical performances, film screenings, and even tango classes. There is never a shortage of things to do!

When in town, check out:

For some fresh air

Right in the heart of NDG, Notre Dame de Grace Park is the perfect spot to put up your feet, unwind, and get back to nature. With green space, dog parks, and playgrounds, it’s the perfect place to spend the day with the family. 

Photo by: Jimmy Santos

For a bite

You’ve probably heard the rave about Montreal-style bagels and there’s no better place for an authentic experience than St-Viateur Bagel and Cafe. With an assortment of perfectly hand-rolled bagels, there are plenty of options to choose from. Our personal favourite is the Traditional with smoked salmon and cream cheese.

Photo by: Jimmy Santos

For a coffee

Right down the street from our office is our go-to coffee shop: MELK Bar à Cafe. With a cozy atmosphere and great music, it’s the perfect place for your daily pick-me up!

Photo by: Jimmy Santos

Photo by: Jimmy Santos

For a drink

If you’re looking for a local watering hole to have some drinks and good times, check out this not-so-hidden gem: Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill. They have everything you’ll ever want and need: cheap beer, good food, and great live music.

Photo by: Jimmy Santos

For a dessert

Monkland Croissant is home to mouth watering desserts and pastries. We stumbled across this quaint little joint recently and it has been satisfying all of our sugar cravings since. Try out their crepes and croissants, they’re some of the best in town!

Photo by: Jimmy Santos