Get a refresh on Montréal’s outdoor patios

Rebecca Sellers

Hailing originally from the big country skies of Manitoba, Rebecca adopted Montréal over 20 years ago after living in Québec City and France as a student. When she is not writing, translating or teaching English, she can be found pedaling the city’s bike paths, strolling the streets in search of hidden gems, and striking up conversations with local merchants, creators and folks in the neighbourhood.

This article was updated on August 8, 2023.

Cocktail weather is here, and to that we say cheers! Summer just wouldn’t be the same without the social glue of Montréal’s vibey patio scene. From ice cold brews to sparkly aperitifs, under colourful parasols or leafy canopies, the city invites you to kick back and relax al fresco under the sun or stars. Now, let’s grab that drink.

Rooftop roosts

Foodlab – Be elevated by electronic and other sounds at this cutting-edge perch in Montréal’s former Red-Light district.

Renaissance Montreal Downtown – With a plunge pool just beside, this downtown retreat lets you beat the urban heat while sipping cocktails.

Auberge du Vieux-Port – The secret’s out: the soaring views from this Old-World setting are simply amazing.

Terrasse Nelligan – This Old Montréal top floor terrace is such a stunner that you need to get here early to enjoy the spoils.

Terrasse Place d’Armes – Channel the glitterati on this wrap-around patio that boasts a fold-down roof and gorgeous views of the old city.

Les Enfants Terribles – Place Ville-Marie – Epic views of downtown and beyond, excellent wine and cocktail choices and a central urban garden make this 44th-floor patio a hot MTL hangout.

Restaurant Bivouac During the summer, the Bivouac Terrace offers a breathtaking view of the city and is perfectly located to enjoy the animation of the Place des Festivals.

Ciel Rose – Offering a glimpse of Tulum with its lush tropical plants, pretty macramé hanging baskets, colourful parasols and refreshing cocktails, Ciel Rose is a great terrasse located on boulevard Saint-Laurent for a sunny summer day.

 

Hotel hideouts

Carla – Hmm… who’s Carla? Find out at the opening of this brand-new patio atop the Hampton Inn by Hilton Montréal Downtown this May.

Nacarat - A truly sophisticated spot (nothing less from the Queen E, of course) that scores top points for its swish décor and sumptuous cocktails served on its third-floor terrace.

Perché - East meets West at William Gray, where vistas of soaring church spires and a cool Californian vibe come together for a sense-stimulating study in contrasts.

Renoir - Sofitel’s elegant restaurant patio gives guests plenty of room to relax, in the sun or under its bright parasols.

Bar George – Usher in summer with swanky cocktails on the outdoor bar patio of Le Mount Stephen, an ultra-tony heritage hangout at the heart of the city.

 

 

Belvu - Situated on the Promenade level of the Marriott Château Champlain, Belvu provides stunning views of the city and Windsor Station. Indulge in delectable Asian-inspired cuisine, complemented by a thoughtfully curated selection of summer wines and cocktails, perfect for summer nights.

Humaniti – The hotel's rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of downtown Montréal. Drop in for a refreshing cocktail, a great coffee, or a light snack. Cuisine and mixology courtesy h3. 

Ritz Carlton – Maison Boulud – A truly tony place to hang out on Sherbrooke Street, and you can order excellent eats from its 3 Michelin-star chef.

Muze Lounge & Terrasse - Located at the HONEYROSE Hotel, this terrace will officially open in June 2023 and has a casual atmosphere to meet, unwind, relax, and have fun. Plus, the restaurant will offer fresh Californian cuisine.

 

Curb appeal, downtown

Le Balcon - Right in front of St. James United Church, the patio in front of Le Balcon offers Apéro terrace & DJ evenings as well as Latin Groove evenings. Hungry for more? Check out their delicious menu, not to mention their aperitivo!

Brasserie Le Pois Penché - An excellent go-to that lets you soak up downtown Montréal’s electric vibe in a posh Parisian bistro setting. Go for its sumptuous 5-à-HUITRES (champagne and oysters) and relax as chill DJ tracks set the mood for awesome conversations.

Café Parvis and Bar Furco - Two for one takes on a whole new meaning with this tucked-away café and bar, respectively. Order, drink, and take a breather on either of their lush little patios, just behind the beautiful St. James United Church.

Biiru – A funky and fresh downtown izakaya (Japanese tavern) whose airy, outdoor space is perfect for sipping sake.

Jatoba – Smack in the heart of the city, a little lush outdoors in the back of the restaurant, where refined Asian dishes wow.

Escondite Union and Escondite Drummond - This colourful and creative “cerveceria de barrio” offers up excellent Mexican eats and delectable homegrown tequila cocktails on its whimsical patio (Union Street) and hints of hacienda in its lush little courtyard (Drummond Street).

Grenade – Kick back and relax with a scrumptious Asian fusion menu and brews on its sleek and airy outdoor patio.

Le Marie-Louise - This bar-terrace with grill is located on the roof of the Studio-Cabaret lobby. Overlooking Saint-Denis Street, this new terrace offers a breathtaking view; an ideal meeting place for a cocktail with friends or for tapas-style bites.

 

Waterside watering holes

Marché des Éclusiers - A top pick for sipping a spritz along the lovely St. Lawrence River, with the bonus of a historic grain silo (No. 5) and the water to gaze upon.

The Terrasse St-Ambroise - A popular spot where Montrealers flock noon and night, with superb views of historic industrial buildings. Lap up the cold craft beer and laid-back atmosphere.

4 Origines - There’s nothing like a cold beer to beat the heat and 4 Origines’ handcrafted brews offer post-parched happiness. On top of a taproom for tasting, this creative microbrewery affords great views of the Lachine Canal, plus you can bring your own eats to snack upon.

Canal Lounge - What floats our boat? This little glassed-in beauty near the Atwater Market, where cocktails et al. can be sipped bow or stern or somewhere in the middle. 

Riverside St-Henri – A canal hub that features thirst-slaking beers and cocktails, volleyball courts, vibey music and more– now that’s our definition of summer!

 

Clubs, bars and restaurants

Vieux Port Steakhouse - Immerse yourself in lush greenery and blooming flowers while savoring classic dishes from both land and sea. Whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring, the covered and heated terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy your meal. The personalized service and authentic decor make this restaurant a must-visit destination in Montréal.

Loïc - This easy-breezy but elegant Saint-Henri wine bar (and former Molson family bank) serves up a top-drawer list of vintages as well as champagne and cocktails.

The Burgundy Lion - Whether quaffing a pint of stout, sipping a dram of whiskey or enjoying a swanky cocktail, this Brit pub/modern lounge bar is infused with authenticity.

Brasseur de Montréal - Located in Griffintown, Brasseur de Montréal is in keeping with the casual, urban style of the neighborhood, and its terrace is a must during the summer months. Be sure to make reservations on Thursday and Friday evenings!

Rouge Gorge - Unwind with sensational wines at the Plateau hotspot. Feeling peckish? You can choose from a delicious menu of tapas and small plates.

Bar Palco - The lush oasis out back is a Verdun go-to, and signature cocktails like the Botanique or Marécage are thirst-quenchingly terrific.

BENELUX brewpub (downtown and Verdun) – Two times the fun at these breezy outdoor brewhouse patios, one on Sherbrooke Street, one on Wellington Street.

Terrasses Bonsecours – With four floors, fresh cocktails and stunning views of Old Montréal and the water, you can understand they this Old Port get-together is so popular.

Plan B Bar – Like so many other surprises along busy Mont-Royal Avenue, Plan B is a little tucked-away oasis that’s great for drinks and conversation.

PangeaLocated in Old Montréal, Pangea is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, bar, and club with lush indoor trees, greenery, and a terrace, creating a serene beach house ambiance for enjoying meals and drinks.

 

 

Buvette Chez SimoneA sweet little terrasse for wine lovers that comes with a steady flow of street scenery on Du Parc Avenue.

PING PONG CLUBTotally cool, totally relaxed and totally neighbourly, the PING PONG CLUB on upper Saint-Laurent Boulevard serves up great snacks and drinks.

Taverne Saint-SacrementSlake your summer thirsts while you soak up the Plateau scene from St-Sacrement’s sidewalk patio.

BAR MAMIE – Sip wines and snack off boards filled with charcuterie, cheeses and more from the outdoor tables of this adorable neighbourhood wine bar.

LabarakeLocated in the Angus Shops, Labarake delivers delish comfort food, signature cocktails and plenty of leg room on its big outdoor terrace.

Taverne MidwayCool cocktails, cold brews and conviviality await on the patio of this popular tavern on Saint-Laurent Boulevard.

Le Réservoir A sturdy staple of Duluth Street, this brewpub offers yummy suds (rhubarb ale, anyone?), plus bubbly and wines, with an on-point snack menu and lots of street scenery.

Joe Beef, Liverpool House and Vin PapillonTriple your patio pleasure with these three Montréal food scene darlings, where drinks are enjoyed on a shared “vinette” that features simple tables, string lights, ferns and vibe aplenty.

 

Le Jardin terrace - If you're looking for a lively and festive ambiance, the terrace situated at the Casino is an excellent choice. You can groove to the beats of Latin music while enjoying delicious cocktails and absorbing the vibrant energy of the surroundings.

 

Rebecca Sellers

Hailing originally from the big country skies of Manitoba, Rebecca adopted Montréal over 20 years ago after living in Québec City and France as a student. When she is not writing, translating or teaching English, she can be found pedaling the city’s bike paths, strolling the streets in search of hidden gems, and striking up conversations with local merchants, creators and folks in the neighbourhood.

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