The McGill bubble is a perpetual plight. When a semester ends and the most recent round of exams is behind us, we often come up for air only to realize that we’ve seldom escaped the same few blocks between Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Sherbrooke. Despite living in a lively, ever-evolving city, it can be hard to break out of routines and find new adventures in Montreal. Exploring beyond the bubble doesn’t have to be complicated. Here is an afternoon itinerary of shopping and snacking in Mile End.
5170 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Start your time in Mile End with a trip to this esteemed Montreal bakery. Inside its signature industrial-style space, you’ll find an array of unique artisanal loaves of bread and pastries to choose from. Pick up a snack—such as the white chocolate and vanilla mushroom-shaped brioche—and don’t leave without selecting fresh bread to bring home. Arrive early to claim their popular fig cheddar baguette before it sells out!
Price: $
5274 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Seconde is an upscale vintage clothing store that perfectly captures the Montreal-chic you’ve been admiring around campus. With its elegant selection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories, each item is curated with impeccable attention to detail, making their collection truly stand out.
Price: $$
5364 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
This Mile End gem blends vintage boutique and gift shop to create a haven of second-hand clothing, local art, self-care products, and fragrant home items. This is the perfect spot to find affordable, one-of-a-kind fashion, and charming gifts.
Price: $$
162 Rue Saint-Viateur Ouest
After browsing numerous clothing racks, you may be ready for a pick-me-up. Brookies—true to its name—offers a variety of cookies, from their signature marriage of brownie and cookie to unique flavors like raspberry matcha. Made with high-quality ingredients, these treats couldn’t be better for indulging in a sweet break from a busy day. Choose one—or a few—of their delicious offerings to fuel up for the exploring ahead.
Price: $
5594 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Mile End’s artsy boutique culture is epitomized in Boutique Take 3, where the racks shine with an expert mix of eclectic and chic clothing. The store’s selection exemplifies a careful curation of items and a conscious commitment to supporting local artists. Their unique offerings promise an experience that is both elegant and effortlessly stylish.
Price: $$
173 Rue Bernard Ouest
With the help of her daughters, Tamey has run this beloved Mile End staple for over 30 years. Whether you’re looking for a skillfully arranged bouquet or a brand new houseplant to brighten your space, Tamey will be knowledgeable, helpful, and remarkably kind. Treat yourself or someone you love to a nice flower arrangement—it’s a guaranteed feel-good. Plus, supporting a small business will make your purchase feel even more rewarding.
Price: $$
5225 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
As Annex Vintage’s sister store, Empire Exchange serves as another gorgeous stop to browse a melange of old and new. The front of the store offers eco-friendly kitchen products, gorgeous glassware, and colorful candles. Toward the back, you’ll find radiant racks of second-hand goods, including a section of affordably priced designer brands. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, you can call ahead and reserve a spot to exchange your clothes for cash or credit.
Price $$
5171 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Argent Tonic’s handmade gold and silver jewelry showcases gorgeous natural stones, which make for exquisite eye candy. With their inventive designs and slightly hammered finishes, the pieces are undeniably special. Due to the craftsmanship, the products come with a higher price tag, but they’re perfect for a special occasion—or a window shopping session!
Price: $$$
