The best bars and cafés Montreal

Timetable

Gourmet shops (pastry shops, chocolate shops, etc.), cafés and tea rooms are generally open every day from morning until mid- or late afternoon (some may be open until evening, especially cafés). There may, however, be days off in smaller shops or in the regions, usually at the beginning of the week. The schedule may also be reduced during the off-season. As for bars, many open their doors from 11 a.m. or noon. Otherwise, you can expect to open in the middle or late afternoon at the latest. Closing time is usually 3:00 a.m., but some close earlier (midnight or 1:00 a.m.) at the beginning of the week or during the off-season. Although they tend to be open 7 days a week, there are still days when they are closed (e.g. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday), especially in the regions.

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 allowed to drink. However, some places hold a different licence (restaurant, artisanal production, etc.) that allows minors to be admitted. Note that if you look under 25, you will probably be asked for an official photo ID card.

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