DISCOVER MONTREAL’S HIDDEN GEMS DURING GRAND PRIX WEEKEND
Hotel Omni Mont-Royal Concierge Giovanni Di Sano Reveals His Top Picks
Montreal, Quebec (June 5, 2012): An anticipated 300,000 revellers will descend on Montreal for the Grand Prix (June 8-10, 2012), one of the most action-packed weekends on the city’s summer calendar.
According to Giovanni Di Sano, Concierge at Hotel Omni Mont-Royal, a luxury hotel in Montreal’s downtown core in the midst of a stylish transformation, even visitors making last-minute plans can enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. “Grand Prix weekend is the perfect time to go off the beaten path and explore Montreal’s hidden gems,” he said. “What many visitors – and even lifelong Montrealers - don’t realize is that there are countless opportunities to get the experience you’re looking for without the crowds or hassle.”
Mr. Di Sano’s favourite hidden gems include:
Restaurants and nightlife: For even the most determined diners, now is not the best time to try to book a table at one of Montreal’s most popular hotspots. Instead, take the opportunity to try a new destination that offers a similar experience. For example, those craving Au Pied de Cochon’s rustic local cuisine can still book at La Salle à Manger (1302, avenue du Mont-Royal Est) or Le Petit Opus at the Hotel Omni Mont-Royal (1050, rue Sherbrooke Ouest). Fans of Ferreira Café’s authentic Portuguese menu might enjoy the fresh seafood at Portus Calle (4281, boulevard Saint-Laurent). Those looking to experience Garde Manger’s intimate Old Montreal charm could try Baxo (343, rue Saint-Paul Est) or Barroco Restaurant (312, rue Saint Paul Ouest).
Rest and relaxation: People looking to beat the heat and take a break from the crowds can take advantage of the city’s hidden oases. The Hotel Omni Mont-Royal’s landscaped urban outdoor pool (1050, rue Sherbrooke Ouest; open to hotel guests only) is the perfect spot to refresh in the heart of the Grand Prix street party action. The hotel’s new Alice Bar is also a convenient spot to grab a drink in between stops. The stunning multi-tiered patio at Le Jardin Nelson (407, place Jacques Cartier) is a virtual escape into a lush secret garden. The famous restaurant Le Club Chasse et Pêche offers a weekday summertime lunch menu on the Château Ramezay museum’s shaded garden, dotted with fountains, flowers and greenery (280, rue Notre-Dame Est).
Shop like a Formula One driver: Pick up the chicest designer labels at elite boutiques like SSENSE (90, rue Saint Paul Ouest). Discover local designers favoured by those in the know, including the on-trend Stacey Zhang (1378, rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest) and classic Isabelle Élie (2051 de la Montagne).
More details regarding the Hotel Omni Mont-Royal’s transformation will be announced soon.
The Hotel Omni Mont-Royal is still accepting both room and restaurant reservations during Grand Prix Weekend. For more information about Grand Prix weekend in Montreal, contact Giovanni Di Sano at the Hotel Omni Mont-Royal: 1-800-843-6664.