Between architectural heritage and culinary institutions, Laurier West tells more than a century of Montreal history. A neo-Gothic church, a former fire station and iconic bistros: discover the places that have spanned the ages and continue to keep the avenue’s history alive.
By AnnaClare Sung, The Main
Laurier West is a true living archive of Montreal's architectural and culinary heritage.
Laurier West is home to several of Montreal's historic institutions, both architecturally and culturally. From a century-old neo-Gothic church adorned with stained glass and hand-carved details to iconic French bistros that have contributed to Montreal's culinary scene for decades, the avenue is dotted with buildings that tell their stories through their presence and details. You still need to know where to look.
1175 Laurier West Avenue
Saint-Viateur Church in Outremont was built in 1911 according to the plans of architects Louis-Zéphirin Gauthier and Joseph-Égilde-Césaire Daoust. Roman Catholic and in Neo-Gothic style, the church is richly decorated with paintings, handcrafted woodwork and sculptures by local artists, as well as stained-glass windows by Guido Nincheri. Its vaulted ceilings depict the life of Saint Viateur, while a century-old Casavant organ overlooks the choir.
5 Laurier West Avenue
Fire Station 30 was built between 1904 and 1905 and originally housed the city hall, the police station and the fire station. The building itself is a remarkable example of Château-style architecture, designed by J. E. Vanier. Although the city hall and police station have since moved, Fire Station 30 still houses the neighborhood's fire department, as well as the Montreal Firefighters Museum. Its collection includes, notably, a miniature reproduction of an alarm box, an 1887 Merryweather steam pump and several other objects that testify to the history of Montreal's fire service.
1045 Laurier West Avenue
Leméac has been part of the Laurier West landscape since 2001 and has since become a popular spot for both Montrealers and visitors. Offering traditional French cuisine with a touch of modernity, the bistro places as much emphasis on comfort as on elegance, both on the plate and in its atmosphere.
Classics such as moules-frites, steak-frites, duck confit and tartares sit alongside more contemporary dishes, always prepared with the precision of French culinary techniques. Inside, white tablecloths set the tone, while bar seating provides a more relaxed atmosphere. In summer, the terrace becomes a destination in its own right.
1030 Laurier West Avenue
The history of Chez Lévêque dates back to 1967, when the restaurant opened its doors under the name La Lucarne, a charming steakhouse and grill. In 1972, Pierre Lévêque purchased the restaurant and kept its original name until 1993, the year the establishment adopted its current name.
Over the course of these transformations, the Paris-inspired bistro has managed to incorporate Lévêque's childhood memories of the French coast into its culinary identity. The chef relies on fresh ingredients from local producers to craft a seasonal menu prepared entirely in-house. Notably, the menu includes mussels Provençal-style, braised lamb shank, bouillabaisse and several other classics.
