September 1st, 2011
Go West (Island)
Sometimes you don’t need to go very far to get the feeling of getting away. Although many Montrealers turn their nose up at the idea of going West (Island, that is), we think a day in the ‘burbs can be delightful. Why not spend a day in Pointe Claire Village to find out?
dine
Hidden away in a heritage home, find Le Gourmand. Executive Chef Michael Oliphant offers delicious French fare with a twist, including a divine salmon tartare with cucumber and curried yoghurt sauce and a four cheese penne topped with truffles and fried brie. Get a spot on the busy terrace to truly enjoy the ambiance. Le Gourmand Restaurant, 42 Ste. Anne St., Pointe-Claire, 514-695-907, www.restaurantlegourmand.ca
shop
Flirt Boutique is a gem of a fashion hideaway, jam-packed with European and U.S. imports like Marc Cain, Malene Birger, Tara Jarmon and accessories by Alexis Bittar. Hit the overstuffed sales rack at the back to find some fantastic bargains. Flirt Boutique, 338 Lakeshore Blvd., Pointe-Claire, 514-428-8768, www.flirtboutique.ca
For all natural bath and body products, head to Izzi Natural Body Essentials to pick up some of their deliciously-scented soaps and lotions (we loved cura pura, with olive oil and lemon to moisturize and smooth skin) or call ahead to book a soap making workshop. Izzi Natural Body Essentials, 50 Ste-Anne Rd., Pointe-Claire, Quebec, 514-630-4333, www.izzi.ca
indulge
The line-up may be long, but it’s well worth your while to stop for a homemade ice cream at Wild Willy’s, a West Island favourite for years. We’ve sampled their beer flavoured frozen treats, but stick to tried and true soft serve. Wild Willy’s, 539 Lakeshore Blvd., Pointe Claire, 514-631-9669. —Jennifer Nachshen
