Just in time for winter, we’ve found the perfect spot for (finger-licking good!) Southern comfort. Blackstrap serves up Southern style BBQ (think 16-hour smoked meats) like we’ve never tasted – especially not in Montreal! Results? We’re indulging our inner carnivore like never before.

From the savory burnt ends poutine ($10) to the simplicity of delectable pulled pork (with a scene-stealing side of fried mac and cheese balls, please, $10.99), every bite is as good as the last – especially when doused in homemade spicy sauce.

Word to the wise: Quantities are limited, so check Twitter for sell-out advisories before heading down to the deep (Verdun) south. —Christine Laroche

4436 Wellington St., Montreal, 514-507-6772, www.promenadewellington.com

When it comes to home décor are you sitting in the dark?

Shed some light on things with a hanging Maplemap lamp ($250) by designer Frederic Guibrunet. This limited edition piece (only 100 were created) is made from pieces of cotton paper shaped like maple leaves and connected together origami-style.

We also adore his papier maché Mademoiselle and Princesse lamps (from $300, pictured), a creative collaboration with Parisian artist Sophie Mouton-Perrat. These doll-like creatures are handmade with linen paper and sit celestially on the floor or table.

Chic, unique and they don’t come from a big box store. Let there be light!

Atelier Ani+LUMIGrane, 730 Woodland, Verdun, 514-762-4754, www.ani-lumigrane.com

Traditionalists maintain that romance is best served by candlelight.

But since you’re enjoying summer hours, you might as well make the most of your Friday afternoons and enjoy a lingering lunch at Antoine.

Reserve a space on the intimate terrace and feast on owner-chef Antoine Richard’s divine French food. The lunchtime table d’hôte serves a mixture of classics like bavette with green pepper sauce ($15), while Mediterranean delights include Tagliatelles with calamari, pastis and cherry tomatoes ($14). Make sure to leave room for the Pineapple Poutine ($5.95), a glorious mix of pineapple fries, mascarpone cheese and a light caramel sauce.

With a lunch menu that changes each fortnight, this might become your new summer hangout— just don’t forget the sun block!

Antoine, 5013 Wellington, Verdun, 514-303-6642.