Bar Mamie feels like stepping into your Northern French grandmother’s kitchen for an evening of exceptional wine and charcuterie. Found near Little Italy, this neighbourhood gem offers a comforting yet contemporary take on French culinary traditions, all inspired by owner Max Rosselin’s upbringing in a small French village.

The heart of Bar Mamie lies in its simplicity and conviviality. Generous boards of house-made charcuterie, perfectly paired cheeses, and nostalgic small plates like raclette and rillette take centre stage. The fare is unpretentious, relying on quality, seasonal ingredients to evoke the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals.

True to its name, Bar Mamie has a strong focus on wine, breaking down barriers with its approachable “à la verse” concept: drink more, pay less. With an ever-changing chalkboard menu of reds, whites, rosés, and skin-contact wines, alongside a secret list of rare finds for connoisseurs, there’s something for everyone.

The cozy interior, decorated with vintage touches and personal mementos from Max’s late grandmother, radiates charm, while the sunny summer terrace offers a prime spot to soak in the buzz of the area.

Messorem Bracitorium, translating to 'The Grim Reaper's Brewery,' has quickly become a top spot for craft beer enthusiasts since opening in 2019. Located along the Lachine Canal in Montreal's Sud-Ouest, it boasts a spacious canalside terrasse and a large taproom. Known for its creamy IPAs and crowd-pleasing lagers, Messorem offers an extensive range of in-house brewed beers, from low-alcohol thirst quenchers to robust Double IPAs and bourbon barrel-aged stouts. The brewery partners with Mitch Deli to provide delicious food pairings.

Found behind storied stone walls in Old Montreal, Romies reimagines midcentury American bistro dining with a distinctly Montreal twist. Created by Alex Cohen and Raegan Steinberg of Arthurs Nosh Bar, this chic yet unpretentious eatery is as much about nostalgia as it is about good food, offering a menu that elevates diner classics.

The space, designed by Annika Krausz, is a seamless blend of midcentury design’s warmth and industrial elegance. Wine-red leather banquettes, candlelit marble tables, and black-and-white photography by Krausz’s family create an atmosphere both cozy and refined. Beyond the dining room, a courtyard with a pétanque area and lush tree canopy becomes an escape for cocktails and/or dessert.

The kitchen, helmed by Cohen alongside Nicholas Giambattisto and Melissa Wood, delivers playful yet elegant plates. Start with beef tartare layered with potato salad or the Cold-Cut Fish Sevilla, then move to mains like the Filet Mignon au Poivre or Venetian pasta with clams. Desserts by Leigh Roper are showstoppers, with the Brooklyn blackout cake and an impossibly good cherry pie stealing the spotlight.

Knox Taverne in Pointe-Saint-Charles is a neighbourhood favourite that combines historic character with a warm, low-key charm. Paying homage to the Knox family who once owned the surrounding farmland, Knox Taverne captures a “working class” aesthetic with its exposed brick, herringbone hardwood floors, and the vibrant green of a climbing plant wall that stretches to the ceiling. The result is a cozy, welcoming space that feels just as suited for a date night as it does for a catch-up with friends. The ambiance, enhanced by three large garage doors that flood the space with light, transforms seamlessly from lively by day to intimate by night.

The menu focuses on elevated comfort food with a nod to the chef’s Mexican heritage. Standouts include the beloved Knox Burger with its Coca-Cola mayo, alongside fresh fish tacos and seasonal dishes like carrot risotto. The bar crafts inventive cocktails with homemade mixers and a thoughtful selection of whiskies and bitters. The terrace is a summer go-to, while inside, attentive service and lively music make for a memorable experience. From the expertly crafted drinks to the “secret” oyster happy hours, Knox Taverne offers a genuinely underrated and gratifying spot in Montreal’s Pointe-Saint-Charles.

Tucked away off Parc Avenue in Mile Ex, Bar Cicchetti brings Venetian charm to Montreal with its focus on cicchetti—small, delightful Venetian snacks—and a curated selection of wines, including macerated vintages. Opened by Elyse Leclerc, Gabriel Lavallée, and Mathieu Delisle, the bar offers a cozy, low-lit atmosphere with a design by architects Julia Manasas and Maxime Lefebvre. Enjoy a vibrant terrace in warmer months and a menu of fresh, seasonal bites on the cheap. With a mix of organic and biodynamic wines, creative cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance, Bar Cicchetti is perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and snacks.

Housed in the former Alexandraplatz Bar, Wills Bar is the brainchild of cousins Ethan and Alex Wills, who transformed their long-held microbrewery dream into reality. This Mile Ex venue offers a sophisticated, welcoming spot featuring a large terrazzo bar and striking light fixtures. With a focus on easy-drinking, balanced beers and a thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail list, Wills Bar emphasizes quality and community. The industrial-chic decor, designed by Annika Krausz, retains the garage’s historical charm while adding European flair. As a family-run business, Wills Bar aims to become a neighborhood staple, drawing in locals and visitors alike.

Marci's ode to 1960s Italian sports bars and New Jersey vibes was spearheaded by a team of serial restaurateurs including David Schmidt and Hideyuki Imaizumi, as well as sommelier Julien Patenaude, DJ and La Rama owner Kris Guilty, jack-of-all-trades Marc-André Patry, and chef Alex Geoffrion for whom this restaurant marks his debut.

Here, the menu is compact yet vibrant, featuring dishes like clams casino, an anchovy-rich Caesar salad, and notably crispy hybrid pizzas influenced by New York, New Haven, and New Jersey styles. The ambiance is enhanced by a carefully selected wine list and a dynamic sound system, making it more than just another pizza spot—it's a cultural homage with a twist.

September Surf Café blends the laid-back spirit of surfing with the buzz of a thriving Montreal café. Since opening in 2016 on Notre-Dame Street West, this sunny spot has become a hub for coffee lovers, surfers, and anyone seeking a dose of calm and adventure. Co-owner Mitch Martin, inspired by the vibrant Little Burgundy neighbourhood, envisioned a gathering space where the city’s unexpectedly large surfing community could connect over stellar coffee.

Coffee fuels the majority of the café’s offerings, served in a bright, minimalist space with both front and back patios perfect for soaking up the vibe. On the menu, the chef crafts simple yet satisfying dishes like avocado toast, fresh salmon bowls, and one of the city’s best breakfast sandwiches made with homemade smoked ham.

Mano Cornuto didn’t arrive fully formed. It was built in real time, on a then-uncertain Griffintown corner, by a group of partners figuring things out as they went. Opened in 2019 by alumni of Foxy, Garde Manger, and Crew Collective, the café landed just ahead of the pandemic and never really stopped moving. Instead of closing, it adapted: pizzas, meal kits, shortened teams, longer days. That stretch quietly shaped what Mano would become.

Today, it runs all day, every day, balancing Italian café culture with Montreal pragmatism. The food stays rooted—fresh pasta, daily focaccia, familiar plates—while the room hums with different crowds cycling through from lunch to late evening. It’s less about destination dining than building rhythm, and that consistency is what turned a risky address into a reliable institution.

La Finca’s cafe and coworking space invites folks to make themselves at home while they work. Since 2016, co-owners Geneviève Lavoine-Houle and Marie-Laurence Guindon have fostered a welcoming atmosphere where laptops are not just tolerated but encouraged. Sip on carefully crafted coffees from local roaster De Mello Palheta as you snack on baked goods. When the shop fills up, retreat to the cozy outdoor space in the summer or book the private room for collaborative sessions if you’ve got friends to hang out with.

Poincaré, more laboratory than bar, excels with craft beers and eco-friendly small plates. This hidden gem in Chinatown, opened in 2019 by Hugo Jacques, Jeremiah Bullied, and Francis B. Melançon, boasts a rooftop terrasse perfect for summer. The menu features innovative, lacto-fermented dishes and a rotating list of house-made beers. Poincaré also offers funky natural wines and inventive cocktails, like the Baijiu Caîpirinha. With its welcoming atmosphere, lush rooftop garden, and gravity-fed draft lines, Poincaré provides a unique, delightful experience for both locals and visitors, making it a must-visit spot in Montreal.

Taverne Atlantic, debuting in Montreal’s Mile Ex in late 2019, swiftly became a hotspot at the corner of Avenue du Parc and Rue Beaubien. It’s where restaurateurs Alexandre Baldwin, Alexandre Wolosianski, and Éric Dupuis have crafted a stylish Art Deco haven featuring a long, elegant bar, central seating, and a rooftop terrace. The drink menu, curated by Frédérique Fortin and Alexandre Taillon, includes creative cocktails and a robust selection of beers and wines. Chez Eddy Snack Bar complements the drinks with its menu of pizzas, hot dogs, and poutines, blending American comfort food with gourmet touches.

Rouge Gorge’s been a cherished wine bar in the Plateau since 2015 because it offers a cozy haven for drinks and bites. Named after a Parisian tavern from the film Children of Paradise, its decor by Zébulon Perron blends industrialism with intimacy, while its wine selection of French bottles alongside global varieties complements seasonal bites including fresh oysters, pasta, and grilled seafood. Whether dining on its terrasse in the summer or drinking in their intimate bar downstairs, Rouge Gorge is where patrons savor good booze and food, making it an essential destination for bar enthusiasts.

Vinvinvin, a vibrant wine bar in La Petite-Patrie, opened in 2019, offers a playful yet sophisticated experience. Located in the former Brutus space on Beaubien Street East, this Nordic-inspired bar features an eclectic design with colorful tones and a central bar. Helmed by Marina De Figueiredo, Antonin Laporte, and Nikolas Da Fonseca, vinvinvin focuses on central and northern European wines, categorized by palate with unique labels like "punk" and "émotion." Complemented by a selection of local beers and small, shareable plates, vinvinvin is a delightful spot for wine enthusiasts seeking a fresh spots for even fresher wines.

For over 20 years, Leméac has been a cornerstone of Montreal’s dining scene, offering timeless French bistro classics in the elegant Outremont neighbourhood. This refined yet approachable brasserie serves up beautifully executed dishes like beef tartare, escargots, and steak frites, staying true to its roots while resisting the temptation to follow fleeting trends.

Brunch at Leméac is a highlight, with dishes like the towering French toast with caramelized bananas and chocolate sauce or boudin with cider sauce. The charming terrasse, perfect for any season, and its consistently welcoming atmosphere make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

Bistro La Franquette takes the idea of a neighbourhood bistro seriously, even in a part of the city not known for understatement. Opened by chef Elias Deligianis with sommelier and co owner Renée Deschenes, the restaurant leans into clarity rather than show. The menu is concise and seasonal, built around well executed plates that favour balance over excess, from pastas and poultry to seafood and classic steak frites.

The room is warm without being precious. High ceilings, handmade details, and a steady hum of conversation give it a lived in feel, while the service stays attentive and unforced. Wine plays a central role, with a list that leans European and rewards curiosity. La Franquette works because it resists the urge to overdefine itself, letting good cooking and hospitality carry the evening.

Local restaurateur extraordinaire Richard Holder and his collaborators has done it again with Miracolo, an Italian-forward restaurant next to Schwartz's on Saint-Laurent Boulevard. Designed in collaboration with Thomas Csano, it's yet another astounding space to dine in, dressed to the nines in every single nook, cranny, and angle you care to look in with vague moments of religiosity—think Madonna statuettes, a cow's head with a halo, or communion wafers at the entrance.

In the kitchen, it's chefs Alejandro Vega and Pierre Morneau. Their menu's a versatile one, offering a little of every size of dish and snack to meet their aims of being open every day of the week: Stop in for a few cocktails and some ricotta or anchovies on toast, or settle in for a more substantial meal of dishes like broccolini or endive salad, skewers of grilled mortadella, crudos, carpaccios, and a lot of fresh pasta that you see being made if you grab one of the table in the back dining room.

It's a bustling spot: At 100-ish seats, this has been a runaway hit since it opened. A great spot if you want that quintessential experience of rubbing shoulders with a neighbour as you chow down and feel the energy of an active address.

Tucked away in Montreal's tranquil Outremont neighborhood, Alma embodies a confluence of culinary traditions and vinicultural passion, a brainchild of chef Juan Lopez Luna and sommelier Lindsay Brennan. This petite haven marries the robust flavors of Mexico with the delicate nuances of Mediterranean cuisine, all underscored by a profound appreciation for Catalan natural wines. The space, intimate and warmly appointed by friends and family of the owners, invites diners into a world where the spirit of Catalonia's 'vino con alma'—wine with soul—permeates every aspect. Every dish tells a story, especially the chef’s signature nixtamalized corn tortillas, a nod to ancient Mexican traditions. The dining experience is elevated by their 'carte blanche' menu, offering diners a curated journey through seasonal specialties, paired with rare vintage wines.

One of the few spots that’s so recognized for its food some would argue it’s barely even a dep. Le Pick-Up brings its owners’ New York roots to the city with a bodega-style spot complete with swivelling stools and outdoor diner tables regularly stacked with clientele. Try the cubanos, chipotle chicken clubs, those grilled halloumi and pulled pork sandwiches everyone orders, burgers, all-day breakfast—and always pull a bottle out of the fridges to go with it.

Mon Lapin has forged its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the city thanks to its impeccable consistency on all levels. The restaurant on Saint-Zotique Street has distinguished itself since its opening by offering refined cuisine, personalized service, an exceptional wine list, and a unique atmosphere.

Founded by Erika Lafleur and Antoine Lacroix-Vézina, Saison des Pluies quickly became a neighborhood favorite. The space, designed by Alphabet, offers a comforting ambiance enhanced by the aroma of Quebec-roasted beans from 94 Celcius. From homemade scones to locally sourced sandwiches and salads, every menu item reflects a commitment to supporting small businesses. Recently expanded to include a vegan ice cream counter, Saison des Pluies continues to offer personalized service and culinary delights—damn good coffee too, of course.

Opened in October 2024 in the space that once housed Paloma, Bona Fide blends Italian soul with Montreal's distinct style. Crafted by seasoned restaurateurs Renaud Bussières, Camille Laura Briand, Luigi Minerva, and chef David Alfred, the restaurant champions authenticity, promising guests an inviting and relaxed experience. The name, Bona Fide, means ‘in good faith'—underscoring their mission to make everyone feel instantly at home.
With only 30 seats, the intimate space with warm wood accents, soft lighting, and greenery feels like an escape. David Alfred’s menu, a blend of Italian favourites with hints of French and Spanish flair, is meant for sharing, featuring highlights like duck arancini and pork chop with squash and chestnuts. Luigi’s take on Italian cocktails and a well-curated wine list complete the experience, creating a spot that’s sophisticated, genuine, and ready to become a neighbourhood classic.

Microbrewery serving up small-batch beers in a functional space that has outdoor tables.

Le Fou Fou in the Royalmount mall is where 12 culinary concepts and three bars come together with a modern twist. From the signature Prime Beef Bar by Moishes’ legendary Lenny Lighter to Tony Messina’s masterful sushi at Kishu, this food hall is delivering a solid alternative to downtown.

Highlights include Tori Ramen delivering Japanese flavors; Il Miglio's pasta and risotto; and Tiramisu's blend of Italian classics with Asian influences. For the health-conscious, Spirulina serves salads and smoothies, while Eva’s offers all-day Mediterranean brunch plus lunch and dinner options.

Its European-inspired design features 900 seats, a heated terrace, and day-to-night vibes alongside QR codes that streamline ordering across multiple venues.

Réservoir, a distinguished brewpub nestled on Rue Duluth, has earned acclaim for its steadfast reliability and charm. Known for its house-brewed beers enjoyed atop a picturesque rooftop terrace, it pairs a stellar kitchen with a selection of about a dozen finely crafted beers at any time. Cozy and casual, the synergy between brewmasters and chefs at Réservoir creates a winning combination. While their entire selection is worth exploring, the cherry beer holds a special place in the hearts of many patrons. A 2017 renovation gave Réservoir a sleek, modern look that’s stayed with it to this day with a longer bar, 40 indoor seats, and a 30-seat terrace.

Found behind the Italian destination restaurant Elena, Club Social P.S. is discreet yet vibrant addition to the Saint-Henri scene with a blend of coffee, wine, and bites. It's a chic yet casual spot where what’s culinary meets conviviality: Bright interiors adorned with canary yellow accents exude energy, while the lush terrasse is great for al fresco enjoyment. By day, savor Italian pastries, sandwiches and Roman al taglio pizza, while evenings out Elena's renowned pies with curated wines. Good for a quick bite, leisurely meal, or social gatherings.

Café Olimpico’s got a few locations in town that are all great, but it’s original Mile End location is the one that exudes timeless charm and a rich history dating back to 1970. Founded by Italian immigrant Rocco Furfaro, it began as a haven for sports enthusiasts before evolving into the beloved neighborhood institution it is today. With its classic ambiance adorned with flags of Italian football teams and Montreal Canadiens memorabilia, Olimpico transports patrons to a bygone era. Renowned for its simple yet authentic Italian coffee and sweets, it's a gathering place where locals are welcomed like family.

This urban riverside beach keeps it simple. Verdun Beach offers a surprisingly calm slice of the St. Lawrence riverfront with buoy-marked water and grassy areas for lounging. The swimming area is shielded by a rock jetty, making the water gentle and inviting, though strong currents outside the marked zone mean sticking to the safe area is non-negotiable. Plus, the beach is fully stroller- and wheelchair-friendly and just steps from De l’Église metro. Locals love it for its accessibility and neighbourhood charm: an easy, low-fuss option for an impromptu swim on a hot day.

Hoogan & Beaufort operates like a carefully tuned workshop, where the building’s industrial past still dictates the pace of the room. Housed in a former Angus Shops structure from the early 20th century, the restaurant keeps its scale intentionally measured, with sightlines drawn toward the open-fire kitchen that anchors service from start to finish. Fire isn’t a flourish here—it’s infrastructure. Ingredients are selected with that constraint in mind, designed to withstand heat and emerge clearer, not louder.

Chef Marc-André Jetté’s menus prioritize balance and timing, moving comfortably between vegetables, seafood, and meat without leaning on excess. The wine program, deep and meticulously assembled, rewards curiosity as much as pairing logic.

Turbo Haüs offers Montrealers a vibrant DIY venue for musicians and community to collide. Evolving from its earlier incarnations, this place balances its own edgy charm with inclusivity, with features including cheap food and drinks alongside a reliable performance space.

It’s also a hub for eclectic events—think live performances, trivia nights, and comedy shows—all curated to appeal to a broad audience. Whether you’re a punk fan, a local student, or someone exploring the city’s cultural offerings, Turbo Haüs provides a welcoming environment for connection and creativity.

Le Jardin de Panos has been on Duluth Avenue since 1979, and holds a special place in Montreal’s dining scene as the city’s first bring-your-own-wine restaurant. With a lush garden terrace evoking Mediterranean landscapes, this Greek spot is ideal for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner under a canopy of greenery. The atmosphere is charming yet unpretentious, where guests in both casual and elegant attire blend seamlessly.

The menu celebrates Greek family-style dining, featuring classic dishes like grilled calamari, chicken kebabs, and fresh seafood. Starters like Greek yogurt, made with gherkins, celery, and carrots, bring a refreshing, tangy twist to the table. Lunch includes soup, bread, and dessert, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy the restaurant’s flavours. While the indoor space is cozy, the real magic is on the garden patio, a serene escape filled with flowering plants.

Icehouse has been a Montreal institution for over a decade, serving up Texas-sized portions of ribs, fried chicken, and tacos to anyone who loves their food bold, messy, and packed with flavour. Originally launched by Texas native Nick Hodges in 2011, the no-frills spot at Roy and Saint-Dominique has always leaned into the spirit of a proper Southern backyard feast—food served straight on paper, buckets of fried chicken landing on tables, and pitchers of bourbon lemonade that go down a little too easy.

Now under new ownership—Zack Cutrona, his father Salvatore, and hospitality veteran Lawrence Picard (Boba Boba)—Icehouse isn’t changing what made it a staple. The classics are staying put: brisket and pulled pork sandwiches, steak and BBQ chicken burritos, and wings that locals swear are some of the city’s best. Even the house sauces are still made by Hodges himself, now bottled on his farm. But there’s a renewed energy behind the place, with plans to fine-tune the menu and crank up the summer vibes with DJs and events on the patio.

Casual, loud, and as welcoming as ever, Icehouse is the kind of spot where everyone—students, families, date-night duos—digs in elbow-deep. No plates, no pretension, just damn good Tex-Mex done right.

Caroline Dumas made her mark on Montreal with SoupeSoup, turning simple, homey cooking into an institution. After stepping away from that empire, she returned in 2017 with Bloomfield, a small but thoughtful neighbourhood bistro on Van Horne. It’s intimate—just a handful of tables and a terrace when the weather cooperates—but the heart of the place is the kitchen, where Dumas crafts the kind of meals she’d want on her own table.

The menu is compact, seasonal, and effortlessly satisfying. Brunch is a standout, with dishes like a Jerusalem platter loaded with dips, eggs, and halloumi, or a well-executed avocado toast. There’s always a nod to international flavours—grilled corn straight out of Café Habana’s playbook, a fragrant chicken adobo—but the throughline is fresh, unfussy cooking. And with a tight selection of natural wines curated by Steve Beauséjour, the drink list keeps pace.

Bloomfield isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, just perfect the ride. It’s the kind of place that feels like an extension of your own kitchen—if your kitchen had a chef who knows exactly what you want before you do.

L’Épicerie Pumpui is a crash course in the kind of Thai flavours that don’t get enough airtime in Montreal. Open since 2017, this tiny St-Zotique spot operates like a no-frills curry shop straight out of Bangkok: bold, unapologetic, and laser-focused on doing a few things exceptionally well. Chef Jesse Mulder, who cut his teeth cooking and eating across Thailand for years, runs the place with Jesse Massumi (Voro, Waverly) and Xavier Cloutier, an ex-engineer turned restaurateur.

The menu revolves around rich, aromatic curries, fried snacks, and stir-fries that rotate with the seasons. But some things don’t change—like the fried chicken, which comes perfectly crispy and packed with umami, or their Pad Thai, a Thipsamai-inspired version that holds its own against Bangkok’s best. Pumpui also doubles as a specialty grocer, stocking Thai pantry essentials alongside a lineup of teas, sodas, and that ultra-sweet, ultra-addictive Thai coffee.

MaBrasserie has been a pillar of Montreal’s brewing scene since 2015, a cooperative experiment that brought together some of the city’s best microbreweries under one roof. More than just a production space, it was a community hub—part brewery, part school, part tasting room—where craft beer lovers could drink straight from the source. But like much of the industry, it hit rough waters, shutting down in late 2023.

Now, under new ownership, the Rosemont institution is set for a second act. Italian-Irish brewing duo Frank Fanelli and Paul Quinn, known for Birra Fanelli, have stepped in to revive the operation while keeping its DNA intact. The name stays, the beers return, and the mission to support local brewers remains front and centre. Expect the same expansive tap lineup—MaBrasserie originals alongside creations from partner breweries—plus a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and a terrace made for summer pints.

It’s a fresh start, but with familiar roots.

Supernat is the kind of spot that Hochelaga didn’t know it needed until it arrived. A café by day, a natural wine bar by night, and a neighbourhood hangout all the time, this Sainte-Catherine East joint is the brainchild of Paul Tran and Olivier Trudeau—two industry outsiders who decided to create the kind of place they wanted to spend time in. With its wabi-sabi aesthetic, communal vibe, and a prime perch next to Morgan Park, they’ve nailed it.

The menu revolves around Japanese sandos—soft Hokkaidō milk bread stacked with fillings like Peking duck and raclette or salmon sashimi with wasabi mayo—alongside a lineup of snacks that lean into Tran’s Vietnamese roots. The coffee program is serious, featuring a house blend from Zab Café and pour-overs showcasing rare beans. But it’s the seven lines of wine on tap that set Supernat apart, pouring natural whites, frizzantes, and ciders in glasses, magnums, and jeroboams for the truly committed.

Between the Drag & Bellinis brunches, alleyway performances, and a terrace built for slow afternoons, Supernat has carved out a space where great drinks, good food, and a little chaos mix perfectly.