It’s hot out, and after watching the movie Mile End Kicks, we’re itching to meet someone artistic (preferably not a musician) , this spring and hang out in Montreal under the trees while falling in love.
The film, a 2011 summer rom-com set in Montreal, taps into the nostalgia of the city’s indie music scene and the very special feel of summer in Montreal. But when it comes to falling in love, there are more off-the-beaten-path spots than Mount Royal or the Saint-Viateur bagel factory—because we want the magic of a Montreal summer without taking our crushes to the same places as everyone else.
Instead of grabbing a drink at the Darling, we’re going to take our spring dates just a little off the beaten path. And, if things go well, we’ll go get a bagel the next morning, right?
For musicians and music obsessives—a coffee at Le Dépanneur and a visit to Phonopolis
For those who have a vinyl record player at home or—the height of chic, and it’s coming back into style—a CD tower and speakers still connected by wires, this is the perfect date. It’s also for those who are in love with music lovers and want to get into it (cute).
We suggest starting with a visit to the Phonopolis record store, which is neither too small nor too big, and discovering a shared passion for German alt-rock or techno reggae. And then, we recommend grabbing a coffee and continuing the conversation about music right across the street, on the terrace of the Dépanneur Café.
For artists and sports fans— an exhibition on the 1976 Olympics and a stroll on Mount Royal
To spark the flame (metaphorically speaking), and to create the perfect athlete-artist match that’s just mismatched enough to be the best couple we know, we’re going to check out an exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Montreal Olympics.
Prospective lovers can chat about retro designs, feats of strength, and rainbow uniforms (and share anecdotes, because knowing a dramatic secret about the ’76 Olympics is very Montreal) and go stretch their legs on the trails in the shade of Mount Royal. And, of course, kiss when they reach the top.
For those who are more laid-back and those who know how to cook—the Jean-Talon Market and a drink on the balcony at sunset
For those whose love language is a homemade mushroom focaccia or a shrimp ceviche, or a bottle of kombucha from the cupboard. It’s also for balcony gardeners and for those who love having meals made for them.
The stroll involves a trip to the market—bonus points for those who bring flowers home for their date—to buy ingredients and chat about organic produce and summers in the countryside with cows. And then, it’s time to cook and eat in the last rays of the sun, with a glass of wine and—for those who multitask—an obscure vinyl record.
