In Montreal, "buvettes" have become a must for those seeking moments of sharing in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
By definition, a " buvette " is a small establishment serving mainly beverages - wines, beers, cocktails - often accompanied by small bites or simple snacks. The term derives from the French word boire, and evokes places where people come to relax, refresh themselves and enjoy quality products. Historically, buvettes were often associated with public spaces or events, but they have evolved to become gastronomic destinations in their own right, where the art of drinking and sharing takes pride of place.
In Montreal, these wine bars, buvettes and cavistes offer privately imported wines, craft beers and creative cocktails, always accompanied by small plates or tapas to savor.
These places perfectly embody Montreal's art de vivre, blending simplicity and refinement.
Their menus, which change with the seasons, feature charcuterie boards, cheeses and dishes to share.
Montreal's buvettes stand out for their hushed ambience and relaxed approach, offering an authentic, unpretentious experience. They appeal to food lovers looking for a place where the simplicity of the setting enhances the richness of the flavors.
1256 Rue Ontario E, Montréal, H2L 1R6
In the Village, L'aPero Buvette is a creative space focused on sharing and discovery. With over 260 private import wines, it's the perfect spot for a lively 5 à 7 every Thursday and Friday. The menu features original bites such as popcorn, tartinette, cucumber carpaccio, and sharing boards. During summer, the cozy terrace provides an ideal setting for an outdoor evening. Groups of five or more can reserve the space for private or semi-private events, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Read also:
Best Wine Bars in Montreal
1900 Rue Centre, Montréal, H3K 1H9
June Buvette is a place where good vibes and sharing are always front and center. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail in a relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by small bites like grilled olives or spaghettoni vongole. With its summer terrace and a private-import wine list, June is the ideal place for a laid-back gathering with friends or a more intimate evening, all in the simple, warm spirit of a true buvette. Open from Tuesday to Saturday until midnight, it offers discounted wine from 5 PM to 7 PM, making it perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or special celebrations.
Photo Credits : cathcooper
Azalea Buvette Caviste Terrasse
4306 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2J 2K8
Azalea Buvette, nestled in Plateau-Mont-Royal, stands out with its Persian-inspired menu, a rarity among Montreal's wine bars. Founded by Fanny Esfahani and her daughter, this family-run spot invites you to discover authentic dishes like kuku sabzi and dolmeh, all served with a spirit of sharing and togetherness. Azalea not only offers private-import wines but is also committed to serving natural wines carefully selected for their quality and environmental responsibilities. Its blooming summer terrace creates an enchanting setting, perfect for enjoying a drink with friends or being surprised by Persian flavors. It's more than just a buvette: it's a cultural meeting point, an invitation to discovery, where each dish is made with love and simplicity. Ideal for laid-back evenings or private events, Azalea transforms every visit into an unforgettable experience.
209 Rue St-Paul O, Montréal, H2Y 2A1
Located in Old Montreal, Buvette Pastek stands out with its refined atmosphere and contemporary wine bar concept. Whether for a gourmet weekend brunch or a relaxed evening with small plates, Pastek offers an experience tailored to every time of day. From the big brunch with eggs and sausage to evenings where dishes like fish fritters or Arctic char are shared, each service is designed to showcase seasonal flavors, constantly refreshed by chef Joseph Acuna. Beyond its ever-evolving menu, Pastek offers an exceptional selection of natural wines, carefully curated by their sommelier, as well as signature cocktails. Each drink is thoughtfully paired with small sharing plates, whether enjoyed inside in a space designed by Maison Charlotte or, come summer, in a charming garden setting.
30 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montréal, H2X 0C8
Faisan Comptoir Buvette pays tribute to the famous cabaret Au Faisan Doré, an iconic venue from Montreal's Red Light district. Located in Le Central, this wine bar blends history and modernity with a menu of creative small plates like the grilled cheese with caramelized onions or the ceviche du jour. With a selection of private-import wines and unique cocktails, Faisan is the perfect spot to meet up with friends or grab a bite before a night out. Every dish invites discovery, in a setting that balances elegance with simplicity.
234 Rue Fleury O, Montréal, H3L 1T7
With Mediterranean influences and a carefully curated menu, Cerise Buvette has become a must-visit spot in Ahuntsic-Cartierville. What sets it apart from other wine bars is its diverse offerings, ranging from fresh oysters to homemade desserts, perfectly complemented by a selection of private-import wines, often organic. Open in the evenings from Tuesday to Friday, Cerise invites guests to explore new flavors in an intimate and welcoming setting. Its summer terrace and 40 indoor seats provide the perfect space for an aperitif or dinner with friends. Accessible and unpretentious, Cerise stands out with attentive service and its ability to offer a simple yet refined experience.
1015 Boulevard du Quartier, Brossard, J4Z 0M8
La Buvette du Quartier, located in the heart of Quartier Dix30 in Brossard, is a must-visit for those seeking a relaxed yet high-quality experience. What sets it apart from other wine bars is the diversity of its offerings: from weekday lunches to festive weekend brunches and dinners with shareable plates. The evolving menu reinvents classics with flair, such as cavatelli and hanger steak, providing contemporary flavors while keeping things simple and approachable. In addition to its cuisine, La Buvette offers a carefully curated wine list, showcasing unique bottles and creative cocktails, perfect for pairing with any meal. The atmosphere is always lively, whether it's for a business lunch or a dinner with friends, in a modern and welcoming setting.
La Buvette du Vieux-Terrebonne
888 Rue St-Louis, Terrebonne/Lachenaie, J6W 1J9
Housed in an 1830 building, Buvette du Vieux Terrebonne offers a unique historical setting with rustic décor and a warm atmosphere. Known for its tartares and bistro dishes, the buvette serves a diverse menu, from fried gnocchi to risotto. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, each dish is complemented by a selection of wines, cocktails, and beers. With open terraces and comfortable indoor spaces, it's the perfect place to enjoy a meal while soaking in the picturesque charm of Terrebonne.
211 Rue Beaubien E, Montréal, H2S 1R5
Located in Petite-Italie, Buvette Beaubien stands out with its simplicity and flavorful offerings. The constantly evolving menu features shareable dishes like pork shoulder and fried gnocchi, paired with private-import wines or local beers. Whether for lunch or an aperitif, the relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality products make this spot a favorite among regulars. Along with its warm ambiance, the venue also offers a private room, perfect for hosting intimate events.
324 Rue Saint-Paul O, Montréal, H2Y 2A3
In Old Montreal, Buvette Nicole seamlessly blends French tradition with a contemporary atmosphere. The menu showcases reimagined classics such as grilled shrimp, bone marrow, and the butterfly cheeseburger. What sets it apart is the daily offer of half-priced drinks from 2 PM to 6 PM, drawing a diverse clientele of successful aperitifs. Its elegant décor and attentive service make every meal-whether lunch or dinner-an enjoyable experience in a chic yet accessible setting. With its attention to detail, Buvette Nicole has become a sought-after meeting spot, where each visit is a special moment to savor.
Saucette Caviste - Buvette de quartier
38 Rue Green, Saint-Lambert, J4P 1R9
Saucette Caviste, located in the heart of Saint-Lambert, is much more than just a buvette. What sets it apart is its unique selection of carefully curated private-import wines, which can be savored alongside original small bites. Open from Wednesday to Saturday starting at 11 a.m., Saucette offers a relaxed wine shop experience, with light snacks available throughout the day for a casual drink. The full menu, available from the afternoon, is designed to enhance each glass, creating a true tasting experience. With a welcoming, reservation-free atmosphere, Saucette is perfect for gatherings and culinary discoveries. It has become an essential spot for wine enthusiasts.
4869 Avenue du Parc, Montréal, H2V 4E7
In Mile-End, Buvette Chez Simone welcomes you to a warm and inviting setting, ideal for a drink and a bite to eat. The menu offers a delightful variety, featuring charcuterie, cheese, and dishes like salmon tartare, ideal for those who appreciate simplicity done right. With a terrace overlooking Parc Avenue, it's the perfect spot for an evening aperitif as the sun sets. Open daily, this wine bar is also known for its curated selection of imported wines and craft beers, highly appreciated by enthusiasts. The laid-back vibe and attentive service ensure that every visit is a pleasant experience, whether for a 5 à 7 or a late-night gathering.
414 Rue St-Zotique E, Montréal, H2S 1L9
Buvette Pompette, in the Petite-Patrie district, offers a real trip to Spain without leaving Montreal. Its menu revisits Iberian classics such as patatas bravas and pan con tomate, accompanied by carefully selected natural wines and Mediterranean cocktails. Open all week long, this bar attracts a clientele in search of authentic simplicity. With its sun-drenched flavours and warm ambience, it's perfect for an aperitif with friends or an evening of light bites.
To discover even more of Montreal's best buvettes, take a look at our complete list here.
Whether you're looking for an aperitif with friends or an extended evening out, you'll find all the options for enjoying wines, beers and cocktails in the city's coziest buvettes.
