About Vanessa Muri
Montreal City Editor Vanessa Muri has lived in London and Tokyo, but finds the charms of her hometown irresistible. From the latest scoops to the best deals in Montreal and everything in between, don't miss her weekly take on life in the fair city.
Lovin' Laurier
Montreal Musings: Laurier Avenue canada, Montreal
(Feb.08.12)
After being with my husband for 19 years and counting (not married, but together!), finding an original Valentine’s Day gift, well… Let’s just say we don’t really give each other presents very often. We’ll usually go out for a special dinner, or stay in and buy an excellent bottle of wine.
But a recent shopping tour of Laurier Ave. West proved very fruitful. Not only do I have a new arsenal of gift ideas for hubby, I won’t be dreading the rest of the family birthdays this year either. (Amen.)
Let’s start with award-winning boutique Les Touilleurs, which feels more like your own (dream) kitchen than a retail store. It’s the perfect place to pick up cookware, bakeware, and even recipe ideas if you’re planning a romantic dinner at home. One of their BYOB workshops makes an original gift too.
No time like the present to purchase some alluring new undergarments. Hit Lyla for their bold, colourful selection of lingerie, and grab a pair of sexy shoes while you’re at it. Score a dress for dinner at Billie, the fashionista’s choice for hip labels at a broad range of prices. A couple of doors down, you’re sure to find him a cosy knit, cool jacket, or great pair of jeans at Michel Brisson.
Looking for ideas for the day itself? Start the morning at Patisserie de Gascogne and pick up some rich espresso and fluffy croissants to go. (Breakfast in bed never gets tired.) Don’t forget to pick up a box of luxurious chocolate truffles on your way out.
Hit the spa for an afternoon of blissful body treatments. DermaLounge is a three-floor destination offering a myriad of services including Swedish, Thai and hot stone massage.
If you decide to eat out, there are a myriad of options on Laurier, but for great French food and impeccable, friendly service, I think of Chez Levesque. And if the budget is tight, make the reservation for 9pm and pay just $21 per person for a two-course meal.
The same itinerary works for singles: Grab your BFF and spoil yourselves! We're all worth it.
Photo credit: Nicholas Lafontaine