Plateau Mont-Royal | Montreal

Plateau Mont-Royal is one of Montreal's most iconic and vibrant neighborhoods, known for its bohemian vibe, artistic community, and rich cultural heritage. Located just northeast of downtown Montreal, it is a highly sought-after area both for residents and visitors due to its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary creativity.

Overview and History

The Plateau Mont-Royal area was originally developed in the 19th century and became an upper-middle-class neighborhood in the late 1800s. However, over the years, the area began to transition, and by the mid-20th century, it had evolved into a more eclectic and diverse district. The neighborhood started to attract artists, musicians, and writers, giving it the bohemian character it is known for today.

Its name, "Plateau," refers to the geographical area on which it is situated—this elevated region offers fantastic views of the city. The "Mont-Royal" part of the name comes from Mount Royal (Mont Royal), the large hill at the center of the city that provides a natural landmark.

Key Features of Plateau Mont-Royal

Distinctive Architecture

One of the most notable features of the Plateau is its architectural style. The neighborhood is famous for its charming and colorful Victorian houses, row houses, and triplexes (three-unit buildings), which are often adorned with intricate details. The facades of these buildings are painted in bright hues, from pastel blues and pinks to bold reds and yellows, giving the area a lively and artistic atmosphere.

The staircases in the area are also distinctive—outdoor metal or wooden steps that lead to the apartments above. These iconic staircases have become symbolic of the Plateau’s unique aesthetic, contributing to the district’s unmistakable look.

Cultural and Artistic Hub

Plateau Mont-Royal has long been a hotspot for artists and creative professionals, making it a cultural heart of Montreal. The area is home to many art galleries, theaters, and cultural spaces. It's also known for its vibrant street art, with murals and graffiti covering buildings, adding to the artistic flair that permeates the neighborhood.

The Plateau has a rich literary history and is home to the Quartier des Spectacles (Entertainment District), which offers theaters, performance spaces, and venues dedicated to local music and dance. Many notable Montreal artists, writers, and musicians have called the Plateau home, further enhancing its reputation as a haven for creativity.

Diverse Food Scene

The Plateau is a culinary destination, with an abundance of cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and eateries offering a range of cuisine. The neighborhood is particularly known for its bohemian cafes and hipster brunch spots. Whether you're looking for a croissant at a local bakery, a world-class coffee, or a trendy spot to grab a bite, the Plateau is full of delicious options.

The neighborhood is also home to a growing number of ethnic restaurants, showcasing Montreal's multiculturalism with offerings from Middle Eastern, Latin American, Asian, and European cuisines. The Laurier Avenue and Saint-Denis Street are popular streets for dining and feature a variety of international flavors.

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Montreal’s Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal) is just to the west of the Plateau, offering green spaces for locals and visitors alike. The park is a prime spot for outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, picnicking, and even winter sports like sledding and ice skating. From the summit of Mount Royal, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Montreal’s skyline and the surrounding areas.

The Plateau is also home to smaller, more intimate parks like Parc La Fontaine, which has a picturesque pond, walking paths, and open spaces for relaxing.

Shopping and Boutiques

The Plateau is known for its unique and independent boutiques, offering a wide range of fashion, books, art, and antiques. The neighborhood’s shopping scene is eclectic, with vintage stores, quirky home decor shops, and locally-owned boutiques providing one-of-a-kind finds. You can also find a number of secondhand shops and thrift stores, a reflection of the area’s artistic and sustainable ethos.

Vibrant Streets and Atmosphere

Strolling through the streets of the Plateau is a dynamic experience. The area is filled with tree-lined streets, art galleries, local shops, and lively outdoor terraces. Some of the popular streets to explore include:

Saint-Denis Street: A lively street filled with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Avenue du Mont-Royal: One of the main commercial streets, home to an assortment of shops and eateries.

Rue Laval: Known for its independent cafes and vintage shops.

Saint Laurent Boulevard: Often considered the boundary between the Plateau and other Montreal neighborhoods, it’s filled with bars, restaurants, and art venues.

The streets are often bustling with activity, giving the area an energetic yet laid-back vibe that is characteristic of the Plateau.

Demographics and Community

The Plateau has a diverse and young population, with many artists, students, and professionals calling the area home. The neighborhood is also known for being multicultural, with communities from various backgrounds living and working together. While traditionally a working-class neighborhood, the Plateau has gentrified in recent years, with rising rent prices, especially in the northern parts of the area.

Despite this, the Plateau still retains much of its bohemian charm and is a reflection of Montreal’s progressive, artistic, and multicultural spirit. The area also has a strong sense of community, with local events, festivals, and markets regularly taking place.

Notable Landmarks

Some of the most notable spots in Plateau Mont-Royal include:

La Banquise: Famous for serving some of the best poutine (a Quebecois dish made of fries, cheese curds, and gravy) in the city.

The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste: A historic and beautiful church that represents Montreal's rich cultural history.

Schwartz’s Deli: A landmark in Montreal, known for its iconic smoked meat sandwiches.

The Museum of the Image: A spot dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of visual media.

In Conclusion

Plateau Mont-Royal is a truly unique neighborhood that embodies the essence of Montreal: a mix of history, culture, art, food, and lively urban life. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant streets, enjoying a meal at one of its renowned restaurants, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, the Plateau offers a one-of-a-kind experience for both locals and visitors. It is undoubtedly one of Montreal's most dynamic and celebrated districts.