With the Grand Prix behind us, Montreal’s attention is focused on the World Cup, and loyalties are divided. Join the rabid fans in these five neighbourhoods:
The Plateau: Portugal & Brazil
At Portuguese-owned Frappé, fans celebrate (or grieve) with sangria on its two terraces. Nearby, Champs, which boasts 70-plus TVs, doesn’t favour any team, though Brazilian drummers have been known to drop in during Verde-Amarela games. 3900 St. Laurent Blvd., 514-289-9462; 3956 St. Laurent Blvd., 514-987-6444.
West Side: England
Expect early-morning debauchery when the Three Lions kick off at Burgundy Lion or at Ye Olde Orchard. Both spots will open for breakfast – or earlier, for 7:45 a.m. games, either by reservation (BL) or popular demand (YOO). 2496 Notre Dame St. W., 514-934-0888; 5563 Monkland Ave., 514-484-1569.
East Side: Latin America
Montreal’s Spanish diaspora community has plenty to root for, and El Caballero welcomes all, from 7:45 a.m. Alternately, chow down during La Albiceleste games at Restaurant Argentino or at Club Social Argentino de Montréal. 7474 St. Hubert St., (514) 510-5604; 3273 Beaubien St. E., 514-727-9797; 339 Henri-Bourassa Blvd. E., 514-383-7722.
Little Italy
Espresso, Nutella and dramatic gesticulating will be unavoidable at Caffè Italia, which will be open for every match. But for bigger screens, try Bar Sportivo or Bistro Paparazzi Lounge. 6840 St. Laurent Blvd., 514-495-0059; 6804 St. Laurent Blvd., 514-495-0170; 6846 St-Laurent Blvd., 514-948-5552.
Park Extension: Greece
The Spartan café Nouveau Café Cozmos will pack ’em at all hours for every match. Beware: Greeks are known to shout, curse and pray during Galanoleyki games. 880 Jean-Talon St. W., 514-279-7144.
Image courtesy of Bjorn Giesenbauer.
