Montreal Weekender: December 11 through 14, 2014

THURSDAY
The most anticipated opening of the week takes place tonight at Phillip’s Square’s old stomping grounds, Jatoba. The dream team of Nicolas Urli (Ha, Flyjin), Marco Benatar (Flyjin) with Alexander Besnard, and Patrick Hétu (A5 Management) are launching the highly anticipated Jatoba, a new gourmet destination in Montreal’s business district with Head Chef Antonio Park. The menu will offer a mix of Asian and South American cuisine allowing foodies to enjoy the best of both worlds. #NomNom indeed. 

For the vegans out there, we have another big opening. The 100% plant-based powerhouse Copper Branch is finally moving into Alexis Nihon. The Copper Branch mission to serve chef-inspired, energizing power foods is finally happening and just in time to cleanse us before and after the holidays. 

For a solid laugh and back by very popular demand, Kosher Jokes for the Halaladays is celebrating its 5th year as hilarious Jewish, Muslim and Christian comedians unite for an amazing stand-up show that examines life in 2014 from all three perspectives and beyond. This show has apparently united Muslims and Jews way before the infamous Charter of Quebec Values. Oh, come on, you know that was funny.

FRIDAY
Call up Aunt Edna and tell her you’re coming over to raid her closet. Le Bull is hosting an ugly sweater party and it’s going to be a serious eyesore. Live music by Pirate Radio playing all of your favourite tunes from the 90s will be the perfect backdrop for all the hideous attire in the room.

For a new place to grab some eats and enjoy 5 a 7, the former Bar & Boeuf on 500 McGill Street is now officially Bar Commerce. Look forward to a menu filled with comforting dishes such as braised lamb shank, oysters Rockefeller and more. Oh yeah, the wine menu ain’t too shabby either.

The always risqué Le Cabaret is hosting the best of the Montreal Underground, featuring two amazing DJs to dance off the icy chills alongside some incredible lives performances. Think sexy stripteases, freak acts, burlesque, and drag. Hey, girlfriend, hey.

SATURDAY
This is a total must-see. In celebration of their 30th anniversary, Cirque du Soleil is hosting a limited-time public event. Surrounded by the splendor of Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Montreal, you’ll be captivated by music steeped in poetry and emotion. The 75-minute concert will pay tribute to the music of Cirque du Soleil over the past 30 years, featuring songs from 35 shows performed by a choir of 70 voices and 8 soloists accompanied by 28 musicians. Whoa.

Montreal en Fetes is back! Yes, we are that excited. From December 13th to January 4th, Old Montreal celebrates the holiday season with magical moments in one of the oldest and coolest neighbourhoods in North America. Take the weekend to walk through the illuminated streets and enjoy the abundance of activities the district has to offer while visiting its renowned restaurants, boutiques and hotels. Too many amazing events to list, so click over here to start planning.

SUNDAY
Celebrate the holidays with some serious soul. The Montreal Gospel Choir, an 80-voice choir, a mosaic of men and women of all ages and ethnicities, is back for their annual concert. Under the direction of the highly experienced Carol Bernard, this musical event will be sold out as always, so make sure and grab a spot. Singing along is highly encouraged.

It’s that time of year again, and as Christmas approaches, so does the annual anniversary edition of Matinee Brunch. After the success of last year’s Christmas Matinee, the historical L’Auberge Saint-Gabriel will once again be the venue of this very special celebration. Expect more delicious food, more sultry beats courtesy of resident DJs Danny Torrence and Toddy Flores, and of course more “Double Trouble” (the signature bottle service combination of champagne and vodka). Sunday is so funday.

#NOTABLE

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