Word on the street: remnants of an industrial era on Notre-Dame West

Located in the traditional working-class neighbourhood of Little Burgundy, Notre-Dame West has been on the rise for a while. The smokestack industries of yore have beensupplanted by trendy restaurants, coffee shops, bars and boutiques. Young professionals, who favour the South-West neighbourhood’s close proximity to the downtown core and nearby revitalized Atwater market, have largely taken up roost. In addition, as you stroll along Notre-Dame west of Atwater, into the adjacent neighbourhood of St-Henri, you will find that some of the borough’s original character is alive and well.

NIGHTLIFE.CA has scoped out a few spots along the street that will surely charm visitors to this colourful and historic ‘hood.

‘Cool Britannia’ still rules at this neighbourhood fixture, which offers authentic pub fare elevated to a high level of gastronomic delight. The comfortable and laid back atmosphere makes it a popular spot to catch a Habs game or a Premier League “footie” match. Try a $5 pint of their Burgundy Lion Ale during happy hour on weekdays.

One of many antique shops that pepper the area, Retro-Ville has something for serious 20th century kitschcollectors and dilettantes alike. Here you will find a jaw-dropping amount of cultural artifacts from a bygone era. Ever wonder what happened to the collection of superhero lunchboxes that your mom threw out? They are all here, along with an untold amount of other treasures and memorabilia.

Looking to give your living room a fashionable face lift with a minimum of fuss and effort? Surface Jalouse is a collective of graphic designers who utilize high-tech vinyl

printers to create customized, removable decals that can be placed on walls, windows, floors, furniture and ceilings. Check out some of the stylish designer furniture pieces in their bright and colourful showroom.

Order delivery, pick up some food for take out, or eat in at this unassuming spot that offers authentic Thai cuisine at a reasonable price. This place also functions as a pub and has a rear terrace overlooking a wooded area. Be sure to check out the forty (!) different kinds of beer available and the equally impressive wine list.

5 Café Mariani | 4450, Notre-Dame W.

This café and bistro exudes warmth and friendly vibes. Enjoy a cup of tea or sample one of their hearty sandwiches made with fresh, organic and seasonal ingredients. On Thursday nights, stick around for the weekly “Time Out” DJ night hosted by the purveyors of all things weird and punk, The Pirates of the Lachine Canal.