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We've compiled the best of the best in Montreal - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Chef and owner Jonathan Cheung not only knows food; he also knows cookbooks. The respected chef, author, and CBC Montréal food columnist made a longtime dream come true when he opened his shop, Appetite for Books, in Victoria Village. Here in his kitchen-cum-bookstore he offers private and group cooking classes, private dinners, tasting events, and, of course, a wide selection of cookbooks in both French and English.
If you're a fan of graphic novels, this bookstore has your name on it. Founded in Mile End in 1990, Drawn & Quarterly started out as a magazine and grew into an internationally recognized publisher of the best cartoonists. The company publishes Canadian and international writers and cartoonists like Kate Beaton, Ebony Flowers, Craig Thompson, Tove Jansson, Guy Delisle, Tom Gauld, Astrid Lindgren, Yoshiharu Tsuge, Rutu Modan, Shigeru Mizuki, Zuo Ma, and many more. The cozy shop sells their own publications as well as titles from many other publishers, in addition to hosting authors and book signing events.
This cornerstone of Montréal's English-language literary scene for over 40 years carries the usual selection of mysteries and thrillers, but it also stocks a wide range of Canadian works. It's a favorite with visiting authors, who stop by to read from their latest releases. Sip on a coffee from the adjacent Second Cup coffee shop while you peruse the stacks.
Everyone from casual readers to serious book collectors will find something at this Mile End gem, where the stacks of literature are complemented by a vast selection of books on philosophy, science, and religion. The owner and his employees are friendly and well-read.
Deep in the heart of the McGill University neighborhood, or the Ghetto as it's known by locals, this award-winning Montréal landmark is bursting with used books (including first editions) and specializes in philosophy, poetry, and literature. Despite its dilapidated appearance, the Lilliputian shop is beloved by locals and visitors alike. As celebrated Montréal novelist Heather O'Neill says, "Everyone says a prayer before walking in so that the roof won’t collapse." Open since 1975, the owners shunned modern technology (including a cash register) until just a few years ago. There's not even a sign, so keep your eyes peeled as you walk along Milton, though the bargain books lining the window are a good clue. The Word made an appearance in the Netflix movie Pieces of a Woman starring Vanessa Kirby and Shia LaBeouf.
Tucked away in the basement level of the Complexe Desjardins shopping mall, this outlet of the vast French-language book chain is chockablock with books in French and English, magazines, and music.
