You. Wine. Bar. We know, those aren’t three words you’re totally comfortable putting together yet. But Montreal’s been stepping up its vino game and we think it’s about time you did too. So with that said, here are seven of the hottest places in the city to satisfy your inner oenophile…
1. Le Vin Papillon
Situated in the heart of Little Burgundy, Le Vin Papillon is exactly what this growing neighborhood’s missing. Joe Beef’s sister restaurant boasts a carefully selected list of eco-friendly private imports from a worldwide collection of small producers. The restaurant’s “Old World” wine list also has a huge selection of rare bottles that you won’t find anywhere else in Montreal. Wines are offered by the glass or by the bottle, but we recommend letting sommelier Vanya Filipovic take you through her carefully handpicked wine list if you want something truly special.
2. Pullman
Everyone’s favourite go-to wine bar makes our list because it’s just that good. Pullman offers delicious small plates and snacks such as their famous grilled cheese sandwich and bison sliders. This bar has one of the largest wine selections in all of Montreal. Wines can be purchased by the glass, half-glass or in trio flights in case you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new. But the best part of this place is the massive chandelier made out of over 100 wine glasses that overlooks the mezzanine as you walk in. Wow factor, indeed.
3. Accords
Accords is nestled in the heart of Old Montreal’s cobblestone walkways. Fairly new to the game, this restaurant and wine bar is hitting high on the Montreal wine bar scene. Sommelier Charles Marquis carefully selected organic and natural wines that come from private importers worldwide. Featuring over 400 wine bottles in its sophisticated wine cellar, there’s something to be had for everyone’s thirsty palette. The bar also offers a long and diverse list of by-the-glass wines for those who “thirst” a little of everything. Enjoying a glass of your favourite red on their beautifully lit back terrace before summer ends is a must.
4. Buvette Chez Simone
This drink destination in the Mile-End neighbourhood is a Montreal institution. Packed every evening with the young and hip socialites of the city, Buvette has become a hit with the after work crowd. Check out their wine list – scrawled nightly across a chalkboard – for some of the best bottles in the city. Wine and dine on some food from their famous snack menu including antipasti, cured meats and cheeses, and even a whole roasted chicken. But keep in mind: this place gets busy. It’s best to go early to avoid having to wait too long for your wine.
5. Philemon Bar
Old Montreal doesn’t always have to be about ultra-fine dining and calèche rides. St-Paul Street’s Philemon Bar has become a staple in the Old Montreal nightlife scene. This bustling bar is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine while mingling with the city’s best young professionals. The bar features an array of Old and New World wines from around the globe, with several Quebec wines also making a notable appearance. Philemon can get rowdy with DJs spinning on select nights, so let’s dance to some tunes while we wine on some crus.
6. Le Comptoir
Le Comptoir has a casual and comfortable atmosphere with a service that truly takes the cork. Focusing more on natural wines, it’s a great place to discover something new and different. Sit at the bar’s long signature counter and enjoy the restaurant’s homemade cured meats and cheeses. This is the perfect first date spot and both eager lovebirds and cool kids pack the space fast. You know the drill: make reservations. And thank us later.
7. Les Incorruptibles
Hidden in Montreal’s Ahuntsic district is Les Incorruptibles. Inspired by “The Untouchables” era, this Fleury Street West gem serves delectable fresh ingredients of the season in the form of shared plates. They have a diverse selection of signature 50s-era cocktails that pair nicely with the plates. But their sophisticated wine list is what really stands out from the menu. Made up of mostly organic Northern and Southern European wines, there’s a special bottle for everyone. And if you aren’t into whole bottles, they also serve select red, white and dessert wines by the glass. So why not grab one for yourself and head onto the quaint streetfront terrace to indulge in life’s simplest pleasure? You’ll surely be happy you did.
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