Ask any McGill student living in or near the Milton-Parc community about the best places to eat around the neighbourhood, and they’ll most likely respond with the staples: Chef on Call, Lola Rosa, or Alto’s. There are, however, many hidden gems around campus which also offer great meals at student-friendly prices. Here are five alternatives worth checking out for students too busy to cook during midterm season.
Basha
666 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
In the realm of Lebanese food in Montreal, Restaurant Boustan is usually mentioned as a go-to spot. While it is a fan favorite, it is not located very close to the Milton-Parc area, and delivery can take a while, too. Basha is an economical, local alternative for hearty plates of shawarma, pitas, garlic potatoes, falafel, vegetable dishes, and poutine. For the hungry student on a budget, Basha offers a ‘trio’ of a pita, potatoes, and a fountain drink for under 12 dollars. Basha has several locations throughout Montreal, two of which are easily accessible to residents of the McGill ghetto: One that recently opened on Avenue du Parc and the other on Sherbrooke Ouest.
Amelia’s Pizza
201 Rue Milton
Situated right on the corner of Rue Ste. Famille and Milton, Amelia’s Pizza is a small, charming, family-run Italian restaurant. There is a diverse selection of pizzas on the menu, including BBQ chicken, reuben, and Hawaiian. Customers can also customize pizzas to their liking, and plenty of vegetarian options are available. The shop also serves a variety of pasta dishes all under 15 dollars as well as scrumptious signature submarine sandwiches. The cozy interior, with its wall-to-wall brick aesthetic, spacious seating area, and potted plants makes this neighbourhood joint the perfect spot for a chill night out with friends. For busy students looking to stay in, Amelia’s delivers. Be aware that it is not open past 9 p.m. every day, so, it’s more of a first dinner option.
Super Sandwich
1115 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
If you know, you know. It is understandable that many people aren’t aware this cult favourite even exists; Super Sandwich is located in a depanneur under La Cartier apartment complex on the corner of Peel and Sherbrooke Ouest. Local customers rave about the shop’s rapid-fire service and fresh, affordable sandwiches. Inexpensive is an understatement—almost every sandwich is under five dollars, including tax. Within walking distance from campus, this is a great place to grab a tasty meal between classes or during a study break. After students’ first Super Sandwich experience, they will wonder how they ever lived without it.
La Crêpe 2 Go
2150 Rue de Bleury
This crêperie is on the border of the Milton-Parc community. As the name suggests, La Crêpe 2 Go has quick service, pushing people in and out of the door within minutes with a warm crepe in hand. Those craving a sweet treat after a long day of classes can come here for a nutella crêpe topped with fresh fruit, a warm Belgian waffle, or homemade gelato. Alternatively, students looking for a more substantial meal can choose from a variety of savoury crêpes. Patrons can order off the menu or build their own crêpe from the many toppings, spreads, meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables available. Gluten-free alternatives are also offered.
Club Soya
225 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest
It seems that Japanese cuisine around campus is mediocre at best. However, one doesn’t have to venture far to find better: Club Soya, an innovative Japanese eatery, is located on Rue Sherbrooke Ouest. This venue will exceed even a Japanese food enthusiast’s expectations with its creative twists on sushi and poke bowls. Their maki burritos are a customer favorite and achieve the perfect balance between spicy and sweet. For customers feeling adventurous, the Club Soya sandwich [a tempura rice cake topped with cream cheese, honey curry mayo, salmon, and prosciutto] is an excellent choice. The restaurant does deliver, but its charming ambience makes for a relaxing and fun in-person dining experience, too.
