It's happened to all of us: we arrive at a 5 a 7 with the best intentions in the world, only to leave hours later than we meant to. The author of the "Guide du vin Phaneuf", Nadia Fournier, recommends some places that are ideal to begin - or spend - the evening,
Buvette chez Simone is a cozy place where you can sit at a table with friends. Simple and unpretentious, the menu offers a few appetizers and hearty dishes of roast chicken, as well as a nice selection of wines by the glass.
This modern downtown establishment is a go-to place for any wine lover in Montreal. The menu offers many small plates and very high quality wines, all served in a manner that is both courteous and professional.
A new addition to the Joe Beef family, this wine bar is located right next to the famous Notre Dame Street establishment. Sommelier Vanya Filipovic holds down the fort and offers a selection of the world’s best wines, mostly organic and otherwise "natural.” Guaranteed pleasure! No reservation is necessary.
After having gone back and forth for a long time between a summer location (Atwater Market) and a winter location on Saint-Jacques Street, the Winnicki brothers finally took up residence on Notre-Dame Street in the Saint-Henri neighbourhood. The wine list is concise but delightfully paired with Singaporean cuisine that is as exotic as it is delicious.
The wine bar of Alain Rochard and Laurent Farre - former owners of the restaurant Le Continental - has quickly established itself as a go-to place for wine lovers of the Plateau neighbourhood. The establishment has a bar permit, so there is plenty to enjoy if it’s not food you seek. That being said, the Rouge Gorge also offers a great range of small dishes to satisfy your appetite, all while exploring the wine list.
Located near St. Laurent Boulevard, Martin Juneau’s cantina also serves as a neighbourhood wine shop. It offers a nice variety of small, simple and delicious dishes such as chopped liver and private, imported wines to enjoy at the restaurant or to take away with the purchase of a meal.