Jeff Stinco on the life in Montreal


An online lifestyle magazine Urban Expressions recently interviewed Simple Plan’s lead guitarist, Jeff Stinco, about his relationship with the city of Montreal.

You can check it out here:

Where were you born?
I’m originally from Pierrefonds, but as a teenager, I escaped the boredom of the suburbs by taking three buses to the city as often as I could. I moved to the Plateau when I was 18.

Which neighbourhood is your favourite?
I live in Old Montreal, but I feel closest to Mile End where I lived the longest, though Griffintown is really coming into its own right now. Between the Drinkerie, The Burgundy Lion and Liverpool House -the healthy mix of Anglos/Francos and the good music, it rocks.

What’s your favourite street in Montreal and why?
The most iconic and colourful street in Montreal is St-Laurent. We don’t call it ‘The Main’ for nothing. That being said, St-Viateur is probably my favourite street: bagels, cute little shops, great coffee, and the best chocolate in town … it’s all there.

Where do you go to dance?
I don’t really ‘dance’, but on Friday and Saturday nights there’s a little neighbourhood bar called Philemon in Old Montreal that turns into a pumping party place. I love how eclectic the crowd is: gay, straight, moustaches, bald … and no “Jersey Shore” approved t-shirts allowed!

Where do you like to eat out in Montreal?
For upscale, I think the best restaurant in Montreal is Le Club Chasse et Pêche. I have had killer ‘surf and turf’ there! For casual, I love Pizzeria Magpie, and for brunch Le Cartet in Old Montreal does a heavy Québécois breakfast AND a west coast-ish healthy plate really well. I try to make a pit stop there every time I return home.

Who is your favourite Montreal personality?
Leonard Cohen on the Anglo side, and Danny Laferriere on the Franco side – his books are evocative little gems!

Which Montreal event/festival do you look forward to all year?
I’ve never been around for Osheaga, but I’d love to check it out, the line-ups are always spectacular. And of course the jazz festival is a must.

Where do you go to relax in Montreal?
I often go for a run on the mountain. It’s not super busy on weekday mornings and I feel like I’m in the country, yet I’m only five minutes away from downtown!

What is your most cherished Montreal memory?
My first Bell Center show with Simple Plan was quite memorable. Our bassist, David, lived right by the Bell Center when we started out, and we often spoke about playing that place for years. It was a magical moment for all of us when we actually did.