Known as a sexy city with a European feel, it comes as no surprise that wine culture is an integral part of life in Montreal. With
BRING YOUR OWN WINE RESTAURANTS on almost every corner, and a choice of wine bars almost as varied as the grapes they’re made from, Montreal is certainly setting the wine bar high!
Since I’ve spent so many moments kicking back with girlfriends over a glass of grape, here is an ode to my favourite Montreal Wine Bars.
1) BU
When I think of European-style wine bars, BU immediately comes to mind. This little wine bar in Montreal’s Mile End neighbourhood is run by two authentic Italian mamas, who serve delicious antipasti such as carpaccio, bresaola and caponata. In addition, the wine list is comprised of some 500 entries, most of them private imports. Twenty-five different types of wines are offered by the glass, and the selection changes on a weekly basis. Bu is classic and trendy, upscale but casual.
BU 5245 St-Laurent
514 276-0249
Laurier Metro
2) Pullman
Pullman is divided in three levels of sophisticated, eccentric decor (for example, the stunning chandelier made out of wine glasses). The wine list is audacious and well-travelled and offers more than 300 different kinds of wine, 50 of which available by the glass. Dishes are small and perfect for sharing while you sip your vino of choice.
3424 Parc Avenue
514 288-7779
Place-des-Arts Metro
3) Bouchonné
Bouchonné is one of Montreal’s funkiest wine bars, providing guests with a warm, comfy atmosphere, red vinyl seats, and an open kitchen behind the bar. What I like most about this place, besides the décor, cozy ambience and super friendly service is the different formats of wine. Tasting different wines and training your palate is made easy with a choice of 2 oz. or 5 oz. wine glasses, plus 500 ml or full bottles. Although there is a variety of tapas-sized dishes and appetizers, Bouchonné also offers bigger meals for diners with heartier appetites.
5171 St-Laurent
514 273-8846
Laurier Metro
