It’s a scorcher again this week and the weather is really putting a smile on everyone’s face. The best way to soak it all up? Drinks and people watching, of course. Here’s a rundown of our favourite patios to enjoy summer in Montreal…
Cafe Souvenir (1261, rue Bernard ouest, Montreal)
The omelettes here are to die for! The atmosphere is French contemporary but with a very cozy vibe. During the summer, the patio opens and tends to fill up with a trendier, artsy, intellectual crowd, but families can also be spotted. It is located on the quieter end of Bernard Street in Outremont next to its chic neighbour, Les Enfants Terrible.
Cafe Olimpico (124 St-Viateur West, Montreal)
This is a fun, laid-back patio located in the back of the Cafe. The crowd here consists of hipsters, young tech industry employees and old-school Italians, making it an interesting mix. If you’re a moustache aficionado, ask for Phillipo the Barista; you will know what we are talking about once you meet him. Their iced coffees are some of the best we have had, not to mention there is a plentitude of TV screens for Euro Championship devotees.
Nespresso (2045 Rue Crescent, Montreal)
The coffee here is really treated like an art form, and so is the interior space. The ambiance is elegant, housing two floors. The upstairs is home to futuristic looking coffee pods, while downstairs boasts a small but happening patio. It’s the ideal stopover for visitors wanting a break from cruising downtown or for locals to catch up. Our recommendation? Their machiattos are deliciously flawless and the macaroons are heaven.
Terasse Nelligan (106 St-Paul Rue O, Old Montreal)
We keep talking about the Nelligan but you can’t beat the panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, the Old Port and the Notre-Dame basilica all in one sitting. Posh, posh, posh…that is predominantly the crowd you will get here, sipping away on their divine clear cranberry sangria. Expect to wait a bit; it’s always crowded when the sun is out. Great for networking!
Le Jardin Nelson (407, Place Jacques-Cartier, Old Montreal)
Housed inside an 1812 historic building in Old Montreal, this beauty is famous for its huge, heated outdoor terrace. The allure here is the live music and all-around draped greenery. You can enjoy jazz melodies in the evening or classical music during lunch hour. The food is easy, known for their pizzas and crepes, but that’s not the reason that you stop here.
Jardin Du Ritz (1228 Sherbrooke Rue O Montreal)
This incredibly stunning outdoor terrace is a casual dining option at the landmark Ritz Carlton. The restaurant is run by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. He is the mastermind behind 5-star Resaurants in NYC and beyond so you know the cooking has to be special. The experience here is exceptional. The patio has a perfectly manicured garden, a duck pond and a harpist during the popular afternoon tea time. Reservations are definitely encouraged.
Terasses Bonsecours (364, de la Commune Est)
A favourite for the social party crowd. You can sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views of Montreal and its surroundings while enjoying their signature sangrias and skimpy outfits. It is host to a great 5 a 7, nightclub, and event venue. During the summer you can find some great DJs like Steve Aoki and Bob Sinclair coming through and really getting the party going.
Image courtesy of The Ritz Montreal
