The best bistros and brasseries Montreal

Timetable

Gourmet shops (patisseries, chocolate shops, etc.), cafés and tearooms are generally open every day, from morning until mid- or late afternoon (some may be open into the evening, especially cafés). However, there may be some days off in smaller shops or in the regions, usually at the beginning of the week. Opening hours can also be reduced out of season. As for bars, many open as early as 11 a.m. or noon. Otherwise, you can expect them to open mid to late afternoon at the latest. Closing time is usually 3 a.m., but some close earlier (midnight or 1 a.m.) at the start of the week or out of season. Although they tend to be open 7 days a week, there may be some closing days (e.g. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday), especially in regional areas.

Budget & Tips

Prices for gourmet breaks and alcoholic beverages are relatively similar to those in Europe. However, some items are more expensive, notably bakery products and wine. To save money, low-cost passports allow you to visit a pre-determined number of participating establishments in Quebec and get a free drink (plus tip). These include the Barista Passport (passeportbarista.com) and the Je bois local Passport (jeboislocal.ca).

It's important to remember that all prices quoted are exclusive of tax. Not only must you add taxes (14.975%), but also the 15% service charge. All methods of payment are accepted, but small shops sometimes limit themselves to cash and/or debit card.

Age restrictions

In Quebec, the legal drinking age is 18. Wherever a bar license applies, only adults are permitted. However, some places have a different permit (restaurant, craft production...) that allows minors to be admitted. Note that if you look under 25, you'll probably be asked for official photo ID.

What's very local

Bars and brasseries often host the weekday ritual of happy hour, known here as 5 à 7. It usually runs from 4 or 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., or even longer, and allows you to save money on alcohol and/or food. Needless to say, crowds go hand in hand during a 5 à 7...

You buy your beer at the Dépanneur (where you can find everything from classic brands to seasonal beers from a microbrewery you didn't even know existed...) and return your empty cans and bottles (they're returnable) after tasting.

Kids

Children are accepted wherever a bar license is not in effect. However, they can sometimes be accepted on the terrace of a bar until early evening.

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited in gourmet shops, cafés, tea rooms and bars, as well as on their terraces. Smoking must also take place 9 meters from the door of the establishment, although some do not respect this distance.