14 Restaurants to Eat Oysters in Montreal

Oyster season is just around the corner, and fans of this shellfish will be spoiled for choice in Montreal. From September through December, oysters take centre stage at many restaurants across the city.

Whether you're enjoying them as an appetizer, during happy hour, to celebrate a special occasion, or even at brunch, there's always a good reason to indulge in oysters. Across the island, eating this beloved mollusk has become something of a social ritual, inspiring restaurateurs to get increasingly creative in their efforts to win over oyster lovers.

Fresh and simply dressed with a squeeze of lemon, paired with a mignonette, baked, or even served as a "shot," oysters can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are 14 great spots to try them, ideally paired with a glass of wine, bubbly, or a cocktail.

Nestled on Saint-Denis Street, this seafood restaurant is a must for oyster lovers. Oysters are served two ways: fresh or hot. The hot version notably comes with foie gras. Oysters can also be enjoyed as part of a seafood platter alongside shrimp and smoked salmon.

Located just a few minutes from Atwater Market, this restaurant serves refined dishes that are sure to impress your date or your foodie friends. The menu features foie gras mousse, fries topped with béchamel and truffle, frog legs, devilled eggs and, most importantly for our purposes, oysters. Pair them with one of the restaurant's signature cocktails, such as the Atwater Julep, a drink that is both strong and refreshing.

If you're a fan of jazz, absinthe, and whiskey, The Bootlegger deserves a spot on your list. This speakeasy on Saint-Laurent Boulevard offers a cozy atmosphere, fancy cocktails, and a packed lineup of events. On Sundays, oysters are available for $1 each, perfect for enjoying while taking in the jazz performances. DJ sets and comedy nights also round out the lineup.

This seafood restaurant offers $1 oysters, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a little variety, the seafood platter brings together oysters, crab, and shrimp in a delicious medley of flavours from the sea. Lucille's keeps the nautical theme going with its cocktail menu, which includes several sea-inspired creations, such as a Bloody Caesar garnished with seafood.

This French brasserie has turned oyster tasting into a true happy-hour ritual. From Monday to Thursday, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., oyster lovers can take advantage of the After-Work Ritual promotion, featuring $2 oysters as well as a selection of $10 drinks.

For those who want a little bit of everything, the seafood platter includes oysters, shrimp, tuna tataki, and both tuna and salmon tartare.

Head to Old Montreal to discover this seafood restaurant where oysters take centre stage. Enjoy them with a glass of wine or alongside one of the restaurant's signature dishes, such as mussels and fries, lobster rolls, or fish tacos. Oysters also make an appearance at brunch in the Pincette Bloody Caesar, a signature cocktail served with oysters and fries for an indulgent, boozy brunch.

In an atmosphere inspired by the 1930s, you can enjoy fresh oysters while listening to live piano music. A variety of small plates for sharing round out the evening, including cheese and charcuterie boards, fried octopus rings, and much more. It's a spot that combines flavours from the sea, cocktails, and music for a night out that's anything but ordinary.

Head to this brasserie on Saint-Laurent Boulevard for fresh oysters or try its Rockefeller-style version, topped with spinach cream. Seafood lovers can also indulge in other delicacies from the sea, including clams, scallops, and caviar.

What if you could enjoy oysters in a place steeped in history? Built in 1688, Auberge Saint-Gabriel is said to have been the first inn in North America to receive a liquor licence in the country, in 1754. Inside, numerous details pay tribute to Quebec's history and reflect the building's rich past.

Today, Auberge Saint-Gabriel showcases French-inspired cuisine. The menu notably features oysters served with a mignonette, perfect as an appetizer alongside a good glass of wine.

Whether you want to enjoy them on-site amid the lively atmosphere of Jean-Talon Market or at home by ordering a box to go, this spot offers several ways to make the most of oyster season. No fewer than 22 varieties are available, with boxes ranging from 12 to 36 oysters. Caviar is also available for anyone looking to add an extra festive touch to their tasting experience.

This upscale bar is a must-visit Montreal destination for refined food served in a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features devilled eggs with caviar, burrata, shrimp cocktail and, of course, the stars of the season: oysters served with a mignonette. To complete the experience, choose one of the house cocktails, such as a Negroni.

Located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighbourhood, this bar serves French bistro cuisine that evolves with the seasons. The menu features dishes such as beef tartare and grilled duck accompanied by seasonal vegetables like parsnips and fiddleheads, along with several other seasonally inspired creations. While waiting for your main course-or simply to share a few bites-you can also choose from smaller dishes, including a cheese platter or oysters.

Located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard in the heart of the Plateau-Mont-Royal, this bar is particularly known for its creative cocktails and indulgent brunches. Oysters are available for $3 each and can be paired with small bites such as house-made ricotta, focaccia, or polenta fries. It's the perfect combination for a festive happy hour.

Oysters are also available at brunch, letting you start the day with a taste of the sea and a mimosa in hand.

For oysters with a Greek twist, head to Mama C in Old Montreal. The restaurant serves fresh oysters with mignonette and lemon, perfect for those who appreciate simplicity. If you prefer cooked oysters, try the grilled version, topped with spinach butter and baked with Gruyère cheese.