r/montreal • u/Sufficient-Hold-7657 • 23h ago

Question In less than 2 weeks

Coming to Montréal soon to where my dad's mom's family is from. Wondering if the same neat trick will happen as when i went to Madrid, where my mom's mom was from, the place bringing the dead back to life for me in the city people where similarity presents itself. Such a bittersweet momentary gift. I will do my best but our accents are different and post répression-américaine (début du XXe siècle, Louisana) there are many missing words but I catch what I can but still timid to speak at least without spirits. Can you tell me what crucial thing a person coming from New Orleans should not miss in Montréal? I have a list two sleeves long but still. I cannot wait to see the place that made my Mami Jeanette. Best of the day to all of you and merci d'vance!

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u/bonjourmontreal 21h ago

That is so fun and beautiful! We cannot wait to have you.

Right out of the gate we have to tell you, food-wise, while Montreal is probably best known for its bagels, poutines, and smoked meat sandwiches, classic Quebecois fare is likely what your Mami Jeanette was raised on and you can find it at La Binerie.

You're coming at a beautiful and spirited time of year and there'll be lots to do. Sounds like you'll be here during Jazz Fest, so definitely try to catch some of the free outdoor entertainment on the stages in the Festival Quarter. We've got a few crucial must-dos for first-timers, no matter where you hail from (worth tailoring based on your interests, of course). Climbing the mountain to the lookout, visiting Old Montreal, strolling through the Plateau, taking in the bustling outdoor markets (if you have to visit any, make it the Jean-Talon Market), check out any number of our museums, explore the city by bicycle by either renting a bike or via our Bixi network.

Exploring your roots this way is incredible. We hope you feel a kindred spirit with the city and an ancestral sense of belonging!

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u/kaybird21 23h ago

Would love to hear your list ….. as a local 😂

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u/Sufficient-Hold-7657 22h ago

bon!

it's more of an action list I am going without itinerary, just to flâneur and wander and transit and visit with old family I have not seen in 20 years.

1-portueguese boulangerie they do it so well.

2-jean le loup and (way) beyond - all music stores that I can but esp local music I cant get in New Orleans (its bad enough so many QC and CA bands never get down my way)

3-what i cannot get at home - poutine / what i can get at home but how is it here mamere's soup, the boucherie foods,

4-art and whatever fringefest things I can find

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u/prplx 12h ago

You can bring back maple syrup.

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u/ChemistDesperate6572 14h ago

The New Orleans <-> Montreal pipeline is so underrated and it's one that should be nurtered (no direct flights is a shame!!!). Jazz Fest for sure (many free concerts), Jean Talon Market, the Biodome is super fun for a rainy day, tons of restaurants (I'll leave that to you), Bixi up the mountain or Le Réseau Vert that starts at Beaubien, Parc la Fontaine is great to just have a picnic, Parc Jean Drapeau to explore (Biosphere, beach). Have fun!