What One of the city’s top wine bars is now selling its imported wines for takeaway, as well as other delicious treats to go. Why Instead of going to the SAQ, you can pick up an exclusive bottle of Fleurie, La dot 2006, Clos de Mez, along with crab cake or calf sweetbread.

5171, boul. Saint-Laurent, 514-273-8846, bouchonne.com

What This international film festival showcases 100 documentaries from over 30 countries, from both well-known directors and up-and-coming filmmakers. Why The official selection includes many genres, from a social critique on the repressive justice system in Colombia to a Romeo and Juliet story set in Afghanistan. Watch out for a provocative film about a singular aspect of Israel’s porn industry.

From November 11-21, ridm.qc.ca/en

What A new café in Old Montreal, perfect for lunchtime respite from work or lazy weekend afternoons. Why You can sit down with a book in one of the amazing vintage chairs that the owners found in an antique shop and enjoy a latté in a place that feels a little retro yet modern and elegant.

644, rue Notre-Dame O., 514-865-2984

What Cinemania is a film festival dedicated to French movies with English subtitles. Why You’ll see the best French movies made in the past year, including Costa-Gavras’ Eden à l’Ouest and a newly restored version of his masterpiece Z. One of the most provocative directors in France, he will also be in Montreal for a lecture on his filmmaking process.

From November 5-15, cinemaniafilmfestival.com

What After two months of renovations, the restaurant at the St-James has finally re-opened its doors. Chef Michele Mercuri has developed a modern menu with hints of molecular gastronomy boasting impressive dishes like the Chatham Bay cod confit with seared foie gras. Why The new design by Montrealer Alyson Wood is refreshing, but doesn’t overwhelm the charm of the iconic building.

355 Saint-Jacques St., 514-841-5000, hotellestjames.com

What The most exclusive dinner club in town. Every Thursday and Friday, veteran sommelier François invites people into his home to try his weekly tasting menu made with local products and fresh ingredients. Why You have to fill out the online form for a reservation and detailed instructions are sent to you by email a few days in advance.

thehiddenmarket.com

What Montreal’s wildest film festival is back for its 38th edition with an impressive program offering the best of this year’s alternative and independent cinema. Why This is your chance to see masterpieces like Lars von Trier’s highly controversial Antichrist, Pedro Almodóvar’s Broken Embraces and 8000 Miles, a homemade movie that quickly became one of Japan’s most successful films in 2009.

From October 7-18, nouveaucinema.ca

What This new Mile-End shop is chock-a-block with hipster catnip. You’ll find handpicked vintage clothes and unique pieces from alternative fashion labels. Why The turntable playing old records as you browse the Naked & Famous jeans, April 77 shirts or bags by Deadly Ponies will make you want to stay awhile.

5253, boul. Saint-Laurent, 514-544-5500

What A new café located in the middle of the Portuguese neighbourhood in the Plateau. Why They have the best coffee around (it’s the new favourite in our office), as well sandwiches for lunch and mind-blowing sugar cookies. Of course, there’s the requisite free wireless Internet, which makes it a great spot to study or work in the afternoon.

151, rue Rachel E., 514-903-9294, cafeneve.com

What A few years after the opening of the successful bistro L’Assommoir on Bernard Avenue, the owners recently unveiled a second location in Old Montreal. Why You can get tapas, tartars and hot dogs until 1 in the morning, and the bar has an impressive list of 250 cocktails.

211, rue Notre-Dame O., 514-658-1526, assommoir.com