There’s so much to love about Montréal. If nothing else, people love how you can travel for European charm without traveling across the Atlantic.
The city offers impressive architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and boasts one of the best culinary scenes in North America. And it doesn’t stop there.
One of the reasons the city has so much to offer is because of the diversity. Montréal has more than 120 ethnic communities, including within Black culture.
Black Canadians make up only a little more than 10 percent of the city’s population, yet their influence can be felt in a big way throughout the city.
Here’s how to spend a day in Black-owned Montréal, Canada.
1. Start The Day At MTL Bagel
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You may think you know good bagels but MTL Bagel will make you question everything you thought you knew.
These bagels are unlike anything you’ve ever had as founder Glen Spence cooks them in a wood oven. This gives the bagels their signature flavor.
You can pair it with your breakfast favorites, including bacon, cream cheese, or salmon and capers.
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2. Treat Yourself At Magnifik Beauty Spa
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Mimosas and facials? Who could possibly say no to that?
You can thank the glam squad at Magnifik Beauty Spa for such greatness.
The glow-up brought to you by her facials, dermaplaning, chemical peels, and more, are for men and women.
Book your appointment here.
3. Shop For Homemade Jewelry For Him & Her
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Shop with Exquisite Jewels By K for homemade jewelry pieces – which are also for men and women.
You will find stainless steel, gold-filled, gemstones, and more. Browse her designs here.
4. A Taste Of Haiti For Lunch At Piklìz
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For lunch, head over to Piklìz for a taste of Haiti. The restaurant’s name is based on the Haitian condiment Piklìz. It’s a mixture of carrots, shredded cabbage, onions, habaneros peppers, white vinegar, and spices.
You can try the sauce on the savory griot, crispy plantain slices, or Haitian pâtés.
5. Walk Off The Lunch With A Black History Tour
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If you want to explore the history of Black people in Montréal, then be sure to book a tour with Rito Joseph.
He works to highlight the Black culture and Black contributions to Canada, which are not taught in schools.
There are a few tour options to choose from ranging anywhere between one and two hours.
6. Ice Cream Break At Zettis Cremerie
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There’s no better place in Montréal for an ice cream break than at Zettis Cremerie.
The shop just opened in 2021 and is already known for what they call
“head-turning desserts.”
7. Shop For The Book Lover In Your Life At Librairie Racines
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Librairie Racines specializes in books and authors that highlight Black stories and culture.
From English to French, Librairie Racines offers a wide variety of books including children, teen novels, adult fantasy, romance, and more.
8. Have Dinner At Award-Winning Tropikàl Restobar
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Tropikàl Restobar is a Caribbean-themed restaurant that has been named one of Canada’s best new restaurants.
Celebrity chef Jae-Anthony is the brains behind the brand.
The menu features jerk mac, “ruhm guava” wings, oxtail plates, ackee and saltfish fritters, and so much more.
If you don’t eat meat, no problem. The menu is vegetarian-friendly.
9. The Guide To Eating Your Way Through Black-Owned Montreal
If you have more than a day in Montréal and want to support more Black-owned restaurants, there’s a public google document online with more than 100 restaurants and markets.
You can find the google doc by clicking here.
Just be sure to call or do your research before you go to make sure hours are consistent with the document.
