This is Montreal

Whether you’re running errands, on a commute, or just spending an afternoon in a Montreal park, lack of washroom access can be a barrier for people who want to participate in city life. So why don’t we have more public washrooms? We break down the costs, both financial and societal, and delve into the history of public toilets.

If you’ve ever made your way through the city, hitting every red light along the way, you might have wondered this too. In recent years, Montreal has upgraded its traffic coordination system, but you still might not notice it. We’ll break it down for you with a bit of math and (spoiler alert) a little piano.

Spicy, savoury, fresh off the grill...whether it’s served on a pillowy Portuguese bun, or paired with roast potatoes or poutine, Montrealers seem to love Portuguese chicken. We explore the roots of this dish, how it made its way to Montreal and what it tells us about how cultures are transmitted – and transformed – through food.

Do you have a question about Montreal? Host Ainslie MacLellan is determined to help find the answer. Whether it’s a story that’s disappeared from the headlines, a curious landmark in your neighbourhood, or a quirk of Montreal life you’ve been wondering about, we’re on it. Let’s learn about this place together.