hat better place to open an “eco-café” than smack dab in the middle of the city’s most famous natural resource - the mountain. Close to the parking lot of Mount Royal Park, Café Smith (1260 Remembrance Rd.,) is a spot to grab some decent fare instead of bringing lugging your own picnic around.

Located in the historic Smith house (1858 residence of an American real estate tycoon) there is a small terrace with welcome shade, indoor tables and a take-out spot. Most notable about this place is the fact that all proceeds go to the Centre de la Montagne, a non-profit organization that provides environmental and educational services for the park.

They strive to ensure that all food is eco-friendly and organic, even the coffee is fair-trade. It opened in July and during the summer it has been staying open later on weekend nights (8 o’clock), but hours will probably change in September to reflect a slower trade due to tourist decline. -S.C.