Poincaré Chinatown comes across as a lively, welcoming bar with a warm, energetic atmosphere and a thoughtful blend of modern and neighborhood-inspired decor that makes the space feel both refined and inviting. The beer program stands out, with a strong sequence of Kölsch on tap and a rotating craft selection that many guests find exciting, although a few pours have been criticized for excessive foam. The terrace is repeatedly described as charming and among the best in the area, a great spot for groups or a relaxed evening, especially when the weather cooperates. The food experience is varied: some fermented and house-made dishes delight with creativity and fermentation focus, while others find portions small for the price and some dishes uneven in balance or not up to expectations for a dine-in meal. Service is generally friendly and efficient on drinks and at the bar, but can be inconsistent at table service, and a few visits note missteps such as allergy concerns or slower attention during busy times. Overall, Poincaré Chinatown offers a compelling destination for drinks and a convivial vibe, with charm added by its Chinatown location, though dining may not consistently meet every guest’s expectations.
We found this place quite by accident after searching'beer' on Google Maps & saw this happened to be nearby. We are certainly glad we did because it's a hidden gem! Some of the best beer I had in Montreal & some really unique side pouring styles with lots of foam, plus cool clay mugs from Germany! We didn't eat but the food looked & smelled amazing also.
I came here for drinks Sunday night with a few friends & we were pretty disappointed. The beers we ordered were 25% foam. My friend mentionned the foam to the waitress & she just removed the foam & returned it without topping off the pint. I looked around at other tables & they also had an excessive amount of foam. For a $13 pint (including tip) I'd expect the glass to at least be properly filled.
Been here a bunch of times now, mostly late afternoon early or early evening during the week, I am sure it gets very busy later on Friday & Saturday nights. Always good friendly service with a solid & rotating selection of true Montreal/Quebec craft beers ranging from lagers, IPAs & darker beers. Interesting & tasty food too.
Great drinks & calm atmosphere with cute leafy plants around. Service was 10/10 & we got so many good recs. I really liked the number one option for the beer menu!
May 26, 2025
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I went to Poincaré for the Lager of Lagers final (May 2025). The beers were AMAZING. They had 10+ beers on tap, all hand-chosen with care incl. 4 beers on LUKR & 1 on hand-pump (English Bitter). My inner beer-geek was in heaven.The service was efficient, super friendly & fun. Big shout out to Arnaud & his awesome team - Florence the wonderful, JM'Jim' Mr Smoothpour, Antoine the omnipresent bus & Jade with a fresh haircut. If I could give 6 stars, I would. I'll definitely go back !
Came across this restaurant in Chinatown unexpectedly & it was a great surprise. Great food & beer & wine selection. Really nice vibe for an evening date, with friends, or even solo. Good vegan options as well.
Probably the coolest & most laid-back rooftop bar in Montreal. They offer a nice selection of locally brewed draft beer, with friendly service, right in heart of Montreal's Chinatown. Unfortunately, I haven't try the food yet, but the German beer was delicious, so I'm sure to be back to select more of their menu. To be honest, the main attraction is the rooftop, so I wonder if Poincaré is as appealing in the winter when you'd be delegated indoors, on the floor below. In any case, Poincaré is lots of fun & worth a visit.
I had exactly the same experience as another reviewer from a few weeks ago. My friend & I stood awkwardly for the hostess to spot us while it was quiet inside with barely any customers. We didn't eat, but the drinks were mediocre & way overpriced. We were asked to pay immediately before we even got out drinks, like why do I need to tip before I even get the service & why does 18% show as the minimum on the machine? Bloody Caesar was too salty & spicy for no reason. My friend waited a much longer time just for a draft beer. When we were finally told there was room on the rooftop, we had to basically sit right next to another group & share their table, which seems to be a normal thing at that place but still felt awkward, & there really isn't much of a view to justify going up there anyway. I'm guessing the food must be this business' strong point since most people are leaving enthusiastic reviews based on that, but from what we've seen this place is outrageously overrated & you can do a lot better in the area.
Jul 3, 2024
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Cute place with great service! Everyone was very welcoming & super nice! The fermented fries were a bit too tangy for my taste however the chicken skewers & the kefir lime salad was delicious! Beer was great & the summer cocktail was very good too!
