Until this whole COVID thing, I have made it a point to visit Montreal once a year. I know for many Tampa Bay Lightning fans, that seems like crossing enemy lines, but if you've never been to Montreal, you don't get it. It's like a mini European getaway. But it's only about a 5 or 6 hour trip from Tampa. (There are very few direct flights.) Most of the area speaks French (but will speak English if you can't). There's a lot of history, great restaurants and a ton of things to do, including of course, going to Games 3 and 4 where the Bolts hope to lift the Stanley Cup next week. If you need some convincing, these photos should do the trick.
Montreal really comes to life in summer. Definitely wouldn't recommend a winter visit.
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Besides being a great way to get out of Florida's summer heat, there's lots of "l'histoire".
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It is always strange to me how many pay phones they still have. They take terrible selfies.
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Poutine Menu
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Poutine... I am not a big fan but people love it.
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Huge arts scene. Their jazz festival is a really big deal.
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First thing I look for when I arrive: hit the supermarket and get Old Dutch Ketchup Chips and Squeaky Cheese
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The wheel is a nice photo, but really not worth riding... the skyline is not really all that amazing to be honest.
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People watching in Montreal is fantastic.
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My 2nd favorite breakfast is Cacao 70. They put chocolate on everything. Take me there now.
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Yum.
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Take those bananas for a dip in chocolate.
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That After Party Waffle is the real deal.
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Breakfast in Montreal is delicious and Instagram-ready.
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More and more chocolate.
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It was as good as it looks.
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And the crazy thing is, there's better than Cacao. Look for Le Passé Composé. Always a line... but for a reason.
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Best French Toast ever... well, they are French so it makes sense.
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As I said, the people watching is pretty wild!
Le Passe Compose is near the Gay Village of Montreal. So if you get too intimidated by this stuff, maybe skip it. But if you are open minded and like the shock factor, Montreal's Village is always interesting!
Schwart's Deli is a must. But go HUNGRY.
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Smoked meat sandwich with fries. The fries are not so great, but the smoked meat is legendary.
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The whole meal will set ya back only about $10.
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The line is usually for the crowded sit down dining... go to the to go side!
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Always busy. But dont worry the lines move fast.
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Just use a little mustard.
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Canadian cole slaw is so much better... it's tangy.
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Decisions decisions.
If you have been in the game since 1928, chances are you are doing something right.
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The to go side ... is the way to go!
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Smoked meat is their specialty.
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Seek this place out! Portuguese Grill called "Barroso"
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So good!
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Presentation is always important in Montreal.
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OK I am cheating a little here... this is in Burlington, VT about an hour south of the Canadian border. Best breakfast anywhere. If you are driving from Boston to Montreal it is a great stop!
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I still dream of their Gingerbread pancakes.
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Very European vibe.
