All this talk of ‘recession’ can make a queer feel economically oppressed.

Thankfully Montréal is a great city for eating-out on the cheap. There is a wonderful thing called “Apportez Votre Vin” (Translation: Bring Your Own Wine). Yes, you can actually bring a bottle of your favourite grape beverage to certain restaurants. This means that you don’t have to break the bank for a good meal.

Here are four restaurants (two in the Gay Village, two outside the Gay Village) that are reliable favourites…



YUKI SUSHI (Japanese) – All-you-can-eat sushi (Sushi à volonté), with cutie-patootie servers and unpretentious décor. Right across the street from Parking Nightclub. Don’t miss the deep-fried sushi roll with creamy, wasabi mayo dressing.

1281 Amherst Street (Gay Village)
514.523.2516


RESTAURANT MOZZA (Italian) – Great choice for a date. Pick your pasta, pick your sauce and away you go with a personalized creation… or get the Table d’Hote for an appetizer and dessert. Space is cozy, so you might want to make a reservation. Check out the H20 infusions.

1208 Ste-Catherine Street E. (Gay Village)
514.524.0295


LELE DA CUCA (Brazilian & Mexican) – A stone’s throw from my apartment, this intimate restaurant offers an exotic atmosphere with super delish Latin dishes. Each Table d’Hote includes soup, main dish, dessert and coffee. On Saturday night they have the cutest man playing live music.

70 Marie Anne Street E. (Near St. Laurent Blvd.)
514.849.6649


LA PRUNELLE (French) – Okay, so it might not fall into the “Budget” category, but it is consistently reviewed as one of the best bistros in Montréal. And if you bring your own wine, you can keep la facture below three digits. Phone ahead. After dinner enjoy a romantic stroll along Duluth.

327 Duluth Street E. (corner Drolet)
514.849.8403