Overall, Buvette Nicole comes across as a warm, intimate French bistro in Old Montreal with a welcoming atmosphere, chic yet cozy decor, and a team that is consistently described as friendly, attentive, and helpful. The menu earns praise for comforting French classics and standout dishes such as fondue, beef bourguignon, duck, gnocchi, and tartare, complemented by well crafted cocktails and thoughtful wine pairings, with brunch and happy hour also receiving high marks. Service is frequently highlighted as fast and personable, though a few visits note occasional slow pacing during busy times and occasional missteps that affected the flow of the meal. The value is a point of contention for some, with several diners calling prices steep or portions variable, yet many reviewers regard the quality and presentation as exemplary. Most reviewers intend to return, describing the place as a gem, a spot to linger with friends or family, and a destination that captures the spirit of a neighborhood French bistro in Montreal.
This has been our go-to spot for about 5 years now. We visit Buvette Nicole every time we come to Montreal (once or twice a year) & we tell our friends to go there whenever they are in the city. (Always positive feedback). The staff are lovely (shout out to Olivier for hosting us so wonderfully last night). The atmosphere is cosy & the food is always excellent. The steak tartare & the escargot are a must try! Go for the happy hour drink specials (between 4-6) & stay for dinner.
Mar 27, 2026
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The food is great, good & unique combination of flavors. We had the special, the beef skewers & poutine. The special lasagna was delicious.
Good service as well.
We had a wonderful time here! The food was fantastic, very lovely atmosphere. They were surprisingly packed but our server Andrew & his colleague took great care of us. Our first dining experience in Montreal & it made us feel very welcome.
Super belle expérience à la Buvette Nicole! Nous y sommes allés hier avec mon copain & notre bébé de six semaines. Elle a dormi tout le long, mais l'équipe a été vraiment gentille & accueillante. Comme ce n'était pas trop occupé pour un jeudi d'hiver, on a même pu l'installer confortablement sur la banquette.
Les serveurs étaient super aimables, le service rapide & la nourriture excellente. Nous avons pris la salade de betteraves, le foie gras, le tartare de boeuf & la fondue au fromage - tout était délicieux!
Une petite ambiance décontractée & très cool dans le Vieux-Port. Je recommande à 100 % & j'y retournerai, c'est sûr!
In a very touristy neighbourhood this reataurant is truly a gem! Great sized space, genuinely fantastic service, delicious cocktails & very well prepared dishes at a relatively fair price - what more could you ask for?! The duck was outstanding! Highly recommended.
Mar 5, 2026
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Went here with my family for our first time in montreal, our drinks were well made & our bartender Olivier was very kind & engaging. Great atmosphere! Didn't get to try the food, but i strongly recommend.
Wonderful wonderful restaurant! Our Server Cè was so delightful & made the experience very memorable. She was knowledgeable on the menu & even asked the Chef to make me a dish that was not on their reduced menu at the time, which was very special! If you are visiting old Montreal this is an absolute must stop!
Nous y sommes allés cette semaine un midi avec mon amie. Avons pris le croque monsieur qui était bon ainsi qu'un tartare de boeuf. Bon mais portion minuscule & frites pas maison alors qu'elles étaient annoncées maison sur le menu ce qui est vraiment dommage…
L'endroit est par contre très agréable :)
trés decu par notre repas, la soupe a l'oignon trop salée comme si elle etait directement sortie d'une boite..
mes machoire se sont fatigués avec le magret de canard. la planche de charcuteries & fromages est faites qu'avec des produits costco.. la qualité n'atteint pas le prix qu'ils chargent..
We really enjoyed ourselves at Buvette Nicole. We had the cheese fondue to start which was very tasty, & a few appetizers to finish. The service was fantastic, thank you!
Très mauvaise expérience pour le brunch…
Il n'y avait pas grand monde & le service a été extrêmement lent.
La nourriture est plus qu'ordinaire..
Allô mon Coco sur Mc Gill est nettement un meilleur rapport qualité prix.
Feb 22, 2026
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Petite buvette sympathique du vieux Montréal. Il y a peu de place, donc, il est préférable de réserver, même s'il est possible d'arriver par hasard, comme nous l'avons fait.
Le service était un peu lent parce que j'imagine que le restaurant manque de personne. Mais le serveur présent était très efficace, sympathique & arrangeant avec les clients.
La nourriture était bonne & les assiettes copieuses.
bref, une belle découverte due au hasard où nous reviendrons surement
Came here for a drink before our reservation at gibbys. Tried the octopus & tartare had a couple of very well mixed drinks. Food was delicious. We will be back
Incredible meal, start to finish! Amongst our group, we had the salmon, bourguignon, hunter chicken, & steak dishes & all said they were some of the best meals of our lives. Finished off with dessert - espresso brownie & a dolce de leche cheesecake - delicious way to end. Andrew was super friendly without being pushy or intrusive & gave great recommendations. Thanks again for a tasty final meal for our time in Montreal!
