Where to eat around the National Bank Open tennis tournament
Gastronomy Sports Little Italy and Villeray
The 2026 National Bank Open tennis tournament will descend once again upon Montréal. From August 1 to August 13, the best men tennis players will be competing at Parc Jarry’s IGA Stadium. Crowds of tennis lovers will be heading to Villeray and Mile-Ex to watch the games and since you might want to know where to fuel up while you’re in this trendy part of town, below is a list of some of our favourite establishments.
5 TO 10-MINUTE WALK
Dépanneur Le Pick Up
Head to his charming convenience store slash snack bar for its excellent burgers, grilled halloumi sandwiches and loveliest sun-drenched terrasse.
7032 Waverly Street
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. / Sunday to Wednesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
10 TO 15-MINUTE WALK
Tapeo
Tapeo is a great neighbourhood restaurant that also happens to be one of the best restaurants in Montréal. The delectable authentic Spanish tapas and the excellent and friendly service make Tapeo a great dining spot. Reservations are recommended.
511 Villeray street
Opening hours: lunch and dinner on weekdays / Dinners on weekends / Closed on Mondays
Casavant
Buzzy and lively neighbourhood restaurant Casavant serves updated and modernized versions of classic French bistro dishes. Beef tartare, Grenoble-style sea bass, sausage with mashed potatoes have become menu mainstays while seasonal dishes make up the rest of the enticing menu. Their summer terrasse on a pedestrian street is the most charming.
350 de Castelnau Street
Opening hours: every day for dinner / Thursdays and Fridays for lunch
Limbo
Deeply rooted in French cuisine, the Limbo menu allows for creative interpretation driven by seasonality and the chefs’ whims. The room is elegant yet warm, the service friendly, and the wine list incredible.
45 Mozart Avenue West
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Huis Clos
If you’re an oyster lover, then this is the spot for you. Huis Clos also serves French and Italian-inspired dishes that pair well with their extensive beer, cocktail and natural wine menus.
7659 Saint-Denis Street
Opening hours: every day from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Le Petit Alep
Le Petit Alep serves an authentic Syrian cuisine from Aleppo. The food is fresh and full of flavour. Try the fattoush salad, the spicy kebab terbialy or a delicious mazza spread. Le Petit Alep also has one of the best wine lists in town.
191 Jean-Talon Street East
Opening hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. / Thursdays and Fridays 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Kitchen Galerie
Kitchen Galerie is a lively, neighborhood bistro near Montréal’s Jean‑Talon Market. The creative French‑rooted cuisine is inspired by seasonal ingredients found at the market. On the menu you’ll find items such as foie gras with gingerbread, prime rib, and weekly specials. They have created a special, 3-course menu for the 2026 National Bank Open tennis tournament.
60 Jean-Talon Street East
Special opening hours from 3 p.m. until late, from August 5 to August 13, 2026.
Mesón
By the owners of Tapeo comes Mesón, a casual neighbourhood bistro serving Spanish-inspired comfort food in a gorgeous decor. Whether you decide on dinner or weekend brunch, this spot will surely surprise and satisfy you. Reservations are recommended.
345 Villeray Street
Opening hours: dinner Tuesdays to Sundays / Brunch and dinner on Saturday / Brunch only on Sunday
Moccione & Moccione Pizza
Intimate and cozy, Moccione Pizza serves some of the best pizza pies in Montréal while its sister restaurant, Moccione, offers excellent market-driven Italian specialties that include some of the best pasta dishes in the city. Try the beef carpaccio, topped with giardiniera, aioli and a mountain of shaved pecorino.
7495 Saint-Denis Street
Moccione opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays for dinner / Wednesday to Friday for lunch
Moccione Pizza opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturday for dinner
Sae Low
Chef Minh Phat’s very personal cuisine shines bright at Sae Low, a cozy corner café with a lovely, mint green terrace. His Vietnamese roots mingle with Asian influences and market finds for a unique take on brunch and apéro.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday, for brunch and dinner / Sunday for brunch
426 Faillon Street East
Osteria Berto
Osteria Berto, helmed by chef Riccardo Bertolino and his wife, sommelier Isabel Bordeleau, anchors a sun-drenched corner of Villeray. Bertolino, one of Montréal’s best chefs, honed his craft over years as executive chef at Maison Boulud. The dining room is bright and beautiful, while the fine-dining service unfolds with warmth and ease. The menu is divided into four acts: finger food, starters, pasta, mains paired with a wine list that leans Italian. Reservations are recommended.
7331 Henri-Julien Avenue
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, for dinner
Comptoir Sainte Cécile
Comptoir Sainte Cécile is a charismatic establishment that’s at once convenience store, lunch and brunch counter and take-out spot with a serious collection of Québec wines and ciders. It’s the perfect place to grab a gourmet sandwich on the sunny terrasse.
232 De Castelneau Street East
Opening hours: every day 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
15 TO 20-MINUTE WALK
Impasto
Impasto is one of the best authentic Italian restaurants in Montréal and it just happens to be a few blocks away from the tennis courts. Indulge in luscious pasta dishes and delectable homemade salumi as well as great desserts.
48 Dante Street
Opening hours: open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Friday and for dinner only Saturday
GEMA Pizzeria
A staple in Little Italy, GEMA Pizzeria has become a go-to spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. Try the classic 1889, the Hawaiian with smoked maple ham and roasted pineapple or go for the Vietri with homemade mortadella and pistachio pesto. And don’t forget to end your evening with a cup of their famous frozen custard.
6827 St-Dominique Street
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday for dinner / Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner
Pasta Pooks
What started out as a series of popular pop-ups has now become the hottest pasta game in the city. Pasta Pooksis a casual, no-frills corner space, with friendly and professional service, and some of the best pasta dishes this side of Italy. The silky pasta is made with great minutia on the long bar counter in the dining room.
6700 Clark Street
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner
Umami Ramen & Izakaya
Umami Ramen & Izakaya is Montréal’s “first fully vegan ramen restaurant”. The elegant dining is located at the crossroad between Little Italy and Mile Ex. The menu offers homemade organic wheat noodles, a variety of plant-based broths, and several Japanese specialties. Their beer, wine, sake, and cocktail menu is perfect for pairing with the cuisine of this friendly corner spot.
6660 Clark Street
Opening hours: Monday to Friday for lunch and dinner / Saturday for dinner / Sunday for brunch and dinner
Restaurant Vesta
Vesta is a neighbourhood trattoria named after the Roman goddess of the home and family. Enjoy great appetizers, fresh pasta and great pizza at this lively spot.
206 Jarry Street East
Opening hours: every day for dinner
3 Pierres 1 Feu
Afro-Caribbean flavours infused with Texas-style barbecue techniques await diners at chef Paul Toussaint’s newest venture inside the Jean-Talon Market. Acclaimed chef Damien Brockway is at the pit mastering 3 Pierres 1 Feu’s grilled specialties.
7070 Henri Julien Avenue
Opening hours: Monday, Closed / Tuesday and Wednesday, for dinner / Thursday to Saturday, for lunch and dinner
Rôtisserie Panama
A most beloved Greek tavern, Rôtisserie Panama is a Park Ex institution that serves a variety of meze and grilled specialties such as lamb chops, octopus and more.
789 Jean-Talon Street West
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, for lunch and dinner / Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
Bar St-Denis
The intricate ceiling light fixture that spans the entire length of the room dominates Bar St-Denis’s stunning décor. This is one of the best restaurants in Montréal. The ever-changing menu contains delicately plated seasonal gems and some house classics such as the labneh topped with pistachios, olives and sumac, served with a freshly grilled focaccia. A must!
6966 Saint-Denis Street
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, for dinner / Closed on Sundays
Denise
If you appreciate a great selection of natural wines and small, market-inspired plates to share, then book a table in Denise cozy dining room or grab one on their charming terrasse.
386 Beaumont Avenue
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, for dinner
Épicerie Pumpui
A cozy neighbourhood spot, Pumpui dishes out some of the best Thai-inspired curries in Montréal, as evidenced by their prestigious Thai Select certification. The green curry, the fried chicken and the papaya salad are some favourites. A great selection of natural wines and craft beer is available.
83 Saint-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: every day for lunch and dinner
Ratafia
Ratafia started out as a plated dessert and wine restaurant whose offering has evolved into a full menu that includes savoury dishes and outstanding sweet fare concocted by the “sweet team” of women chefs.
6778 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, for dinner
Chez Tousignant
Chez Tousignant serves some of the best burgers and poutines in Montréal. Everything is homemade, including the hot dogs and buns.
6956 Drolet Street
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Claire Jacques
A recent addition to Canada’s 100 Best restaurants list, Claire Jacques is a cozy neighbourhood spot in Villeray run by a lovely and welcoming couple. Open from 2pm for afternoon “snacks” and early evening apéro and drinks, it serves savoury and sweet plates featuring beautiful seasonal ingredients. The wine list is as delicious as the food and the desserts are a must since chef Laurence Théberge is trained as a pastry chef.
8111 Saint-Denis Street
Opening hours: Wednesday to Saturday, from 2 p.m.
Bistrot Boisselet
Located just a few blocks from Jean-Talon Market, Bistrot Boisselet is a French bistro that’s quickly becoming a fan favourite. The room is elegant ad subdued, the service friendly, and the menu leans heavily on bistro classics done well.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday for dinner
7120 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
LONGER THAN 20 MINUTES
Anemone
From Asian-inspired temaki to more French-rooted specials, Anemone’s cuisine is hard to define and is rather the culmination of the chefs’ diverse backgrounds but with a focus on always featuring local and seasonal produce.
271 Saint-Zotique Street West
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, for dinner
Nouilles Sauvette
Grab a container of toothsome noodles from Nouilles Sauvette, a takeaway window by beloved chef Anita Feng serving daily noodle specials that showcase Szechuan cuisine.
43 Beaubien Street East
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Restaurant Gus
This cozy neighbourhood gem and self-proclaimed “small steakhouse with big flavours,” is a local favourite. Gus charms with signature dishes that have reached classic status, such as the crave-worthy Caesar salad, salmon tartare, lamb chops with fresh mint, and famed chocolate cake. Snagging a seat at the bar for a chat with the larger-than-life chef David is just as memorable as the food itself.
38 Beaubien Street East
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday, for dinner
Bottega Pizzeria / San Gennaro
Bottega and its next-door sister restaurant San Gennaro are both great to grab a pizza, sit-down Neapolitan-style with a glass of wine at Bottega or on-the-go, Roman-style with a pulled espresso at San Gennaro.
Bottega Pizzeria: 65 Saint-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, for dinner
San Gennaro: 69 Saint-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. / Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Mon Lapin
Voted best restaurant in Canada two years in a row, Mon Lapin is an outstanding eatery serving a market-driven regional cuisine with one of the best wine lists in town. You’re going to want to reserve here.
150 Saint-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Rôtisserie La Lune
From the team behind Mon Lapin comes Rôtisserie La Lune, a Québécois-style bistro dedicated to a national favourite: spit-roasted birds. This relaxed family-friendly restaurant specializes in poultry (not just chicken) but offers many other enticing dishes. The standout wine list features privately imported hidden gems.
391 St-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: Monday for dinner / Tuesday to Saturday, for lunch and dinner
Mamie
Open for lunch and dinner, Mamie is an excellent choice for a casual, French-inspired meal paired with affordable wines from their own private import company and cave located next door.
328 Beaubien Street East
Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday from 4 p.m. / Thursday to Sunday from 12 p.m.
Restaurant Nozy
Nozy takes its name from a nickname given to owner/chef Nozomu Takeuchi by friends. Originally from Hokkaido, he aims to bring the home-style Japanese cooking of everyday kitchens to a neighbourhood spot. Beyond weekly menu additions and Japanese desserts, Nozy hosts a biweekly weekend omakase, alongside private-import sakes and a small wine list.
156 St-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: Thursday and Friday, for lunch / Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, for dinner
SWEET!
If the temperatures are soaring and you’re in the mood for some ice cream, head to Les Givrés on De Castelnau Street or Havre-aux-glaces at the Jean-Talon Market. Crèmerie Meetha serves unique Indian-flavoured ice cream such as jalebi, masala chai or falooda. For great frozen custard, the takeaway at Pizzeria Gema is always a good idea. For cake, bread, and pastry lovers, head to Hof Sucrée, Mlles Gâteaux, Le Pain dans les voiles or Automne Boulangerie to satisfy that gluten craving. Alati Caserta is also a great choice for cannoli and sweet Italian specialties, while Pâtisserie Afroditi is your go-to for Greek desserts. Blés de pays is where you want to pick up breads and pastries made with heirloom flours. Next door at Daddy Roll, you’ll find gooey and absolutely incredible cinnamon rolls with a variety of toppings. État de choc and Avanaa have you covered for all your artisanal chocolate needs.
FUEL UP!
Foil Gallery
Part art gallery and part trendy coffeeshop, Foil Gallery is the spot to head to when you crave a side of culture with your caffeine fix. Try the rhubarb and shiso iced latte and a sweet treat.
6560 Waverly Street
Even Coffee
This specialty coffeeshop is one of the best in the city. Café Even works closely with importers and producers to purchase the best quality coffee beans that they then roast in small batches on site. You can taste the care and minute handling of the beans in every cup.
267 Saint-Zotique Street West
Café Ferlucci
Tiny but mighty, Café Ferlucci offers great iced coffee, focaccia baked on site, generous Italian sandwiches and pastries, and the friendliest service. Try the over-the-top affogato.
432 De Castelnau Street East
Café Nostalgia
The closest metro station to the tennis court is De Castelnau and that’s where you’ll find Café Nostalgia, a tiny space that embodies the spirit of Mexico City’s cafés, with terra cotta walls and warm wood tones. Here you’ll find fair trade Mexican beans transformed into specialty coffee, including café de olla, a cinnamon-infused, refreshing drink.
Oening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
7335 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Café Larue
Whether you’re arriving in Villeray via the Jarry, Jean-Talon or De Castelnau metro stations, there is a Café Larue nearby to keep you well caffeinated throughout the day. They use beans that they roast themselves in small batches.
Different locations
Café Vito
An Italian-style café located a block east of Parc Jarry, Vito will make you feel like you’re part of the extended family while serving you an excellent espresso.
151 Villeray Street
Palmieri
Italian-style café Palmieri is located at the corner of the Jarry Park, on your way to the tennis courts. The space is bright and warm, with traditional tables as well as a more comfortable seating area with a couch. Whether you need take a break from your day or grab something to go, their espresso-based drinks, pastries, and sandwiches are great options.
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. / Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m
7479 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Café Saint-Henri
This Montréal coffee institution’s roasting facility complemented by a gorgeous coffeeshop are located in the Mile-Ex, a stone’s throw away from the tennis stadiums. Eat and fuel up at this location or at their Jean-Talon Market one a short walk away.
7335 Mile End Street and 260 Place du Marché Nord
Café Caron & Frères
Located in the heart of Little Italy, this cozy café is owned and operated by two charming brothers who feature great roasters and serve perfect brews.
26 Bélanger Street
Caffè Italia
Open since 1956, Caffè Italia is a neighbourhood gem and an integral part of the community in Little Italy. The old school vibe and décor are a virtual trip to Italy where old men gather to discuss life while sipping on their espresso. If you’re hungry, indulge in one of their delicious sandwiches and order it all dressed.
6840 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
BARS, BUVETTES AND BREWERIES
Polari
Great wines by the glass (or the bottle), delicious little plates of fresh and seasonal food to snack on and a charming space and terrasse to linger on is what awaits you at Polari, an unpretentious neighbourhood wine bar that’s worth the detour.
375A De Castelnau Street
Opening hours: every day 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Bar Bello
Voted one of the best bars in Canada, Bar Bello specializes in Italian Amari and vermouth. This elegant bar with a retro vibe is a great choice to grab some antipasti while nursing a negroni.
6740 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, from 4 p.m. / Closed Monday
Numéro
Little Italy’s Bar Numéro is a sleek cocktail bar with a cool ’70s-inspired design, featuring deep brown hues, vintage furniture, dim lighting, and seating that encourages conversation. Try the tableside martinis served in chilled glasses.
6382 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Opening hours: every day from 4 p.m.
Wills
Located in a beautifully renovated industrial garage in the heart of the Mile Ex, Wills serves their own beer brewed with “consideration, intent, determination and joy”. It’s a great place to hang out at before or after a match.
6729 De l’Esplanade Avenue
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, from 4 p.m. / Saturday and Sunday, from 3 p.m. / Closed Monday
Vices & Versa
Vices & Versa is a popular neighbourhood bar and restaurant serving over 40 different kinds of draft beers along with a menu that includes several vegan options.
6631 Saint-Laurent Boulevard
Opening hours: every day, from11:30 a.m.
La Courtepointe
A great new neighbourhood bar, La Courtepointe serves elevated and well executed bar food and snacks as well as great beer on tap, nice cocktails and privately imported natural wines. Their sunny terrasse is a lively spot to mingle with locals.
220 Villeray Street
Opening hours: every day, from 4 p.m.
Buvette Beaubien
A cozy and welcoming spot, Buvette Beaubien is the place to stop for a coffee, a casual lunch or a great glass of natural wine paired with small, seasonal plates for dinner.
211 Beaubien Street East
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 11 a.m. / Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m.
Buvette Pompette
Inspired by Spanish tapas bars, Buvette Pompette is the ideal stop for a glass of wine paired with a plate of croquetas, pan con tomate or patatas bravas. In the summer, the sunny terrasse comes alive with the energy of cheerful gatherings.
414 Saint-Zotique Street East
Opening hours: every day, from 4 p.m.
Taverne Atlantic
One of Montréal’s best rooftop terrasse is hiding in an unassuming building on Parc Avenue. Taverne Atlantic is a fantastic spot to grab a drink and some food while mingling with the trendy and in-the-know crowd.
6512 Parc Avenue
Opening hours: every day, from 4 p.m.
Bar Cicchetti
Italian-inspired cocktails and bites, natural wines, a sunny terrasse and a dolce vita vibe are all on the menu at Bar Cicchetti in the Mile-Ex.
6703 Parc Avenue
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 4 p.m.
Etoh Brasserie
Etoh Brasserie is an artisanal micro-brewery with a large variety of beers on its menu.
8100 Saint-Denis Street
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, from 3 p.m. / Friday to Sunday, from 1 p.m.
PS: don’t forget to visit the Jean-Talon Market while you’re in the neighbourhood; it’s an absolute mecca for all food lovers!
Mayssam Samaha
Mayssam Samaha is a food and travel writer and blogger and the founder behind the blog Will Travel for Food. She travels the world in search of the next culinary discovery. From Iceland to South Africa, she’s already visited over 36 countries and there’s nothing she enjoys more than wandering around a farmers’ market in a foreign city. She is also the founder of the SAISONS intimate dinner series highlighting Québec products and chefs.