17 great summer terrasses in the Quartier des Spectacles

It’s terrasse season! The Quartier des Spectacles has loads of great spots to sit outside and sip a drink, grab a bite and hang with friends. Here’s the look at the Quartier’s terrrasses and patios.

By Sébastien Tétrault

L'abreuvoir
403, Ontario ST. east

A spot that’s been open for 15 years, with a stunning backyard patio that’s heated in the winter and lush in the summer – a fantastic place to be any time, any season. Couples and friend groups gather here to enjoy a beer, sip cocktails and eat delicious fare from the kitchen, from small plates to full meals.

Le Saint-Bock
1749, Saint-Denis ST.

This restaurant and bar’s large terrasse is right on Saint-Denis, making it an integral part of the Quartier Latin’s irresistible vibe. And it’s no surprise, given the brewpub’s menu of more than 500 beers – one of the most extensive in Canada! With the kitchen staying open until late, it’s a good spot for a bite after a movie or a concert.

Brasseurs du monde
1567, Saint-Denis ST.

This Quartier Latin newcomer is a welcoming space serving beers made by its namesake brewery in Saint-Hyacinthe, alongside a large selection of local beers. The menu also includes some delicious brunch options, among other delicious items. And it has two terrasses: one facing Saint-Denis and the other facing the Grande Bibliothèque. An excellent choice for soaking up the neighbourhood ambiance.

Café-bar de la cinémathèque
355, de Maisonneuve BLVD. East

Located inside the Cinémathèque québécoise, you can’t beat this café as a pre- or post-movie stop. Set back from De Maisonneuve Blvd., the intimate, welcoming terrasse is the place to go for an impromptu happy hour. You might even spot some local film luminaries in the wild!

Jardins Gamelin
Place Émilie-Gamelin

One of the city’s biggest, greenest terrasses is found in Les Jardins Gamelin, an urban oasis that sets the beat for Montreal’s summer. If you’re thirsty, hungry or just want to rest your feet, it’s a handy pit stop on any downtown outing. The Casse-croûte, by Les Survenants, has an appetizing selection of snacks and refreshments.

Le Sainte-Élisabeth
1412 SAINTE-ELISABETH ST.

This Euro-style pub is known for its hidden patio whose luxuriant vegetation instantly transports you to another place and time. The charming establishment, on a small eponymous street perpendicular to Sainte-Catherine East, is an amazing spot for after-work drinks, romantic outings and get-togethers with friends.

Emmanuelle Lounge
2, Rue Sainte-Catherine EAST

Located on the fifth floor of the 2-22 Building, this new lounge boasts an unbeatable view of the Quartier des Spectacles. Founded by local DJ and entrepreneur Donald Lauture, it’s notable for its elegant setting and refined vibe, great for hanging out with friends old and new. You’ll appreciate chef Nick Bramos’ menu and Dimitry Saint-Louis’ cocktail creations.

Café Bloc

1209-1211 BOULEVARD SAINT-LAURENT

A café of many pleasures, featuring nearly 100 climbing blocks for climbers of every level. You can have a good workout before retiring to the café and rooftop terrasse, where you can quench your well-earned thirst with a well-chilled microbrew.

TERRASSE POP-UP À LA SAT

1201, SAINT-LAURENT BLVD

While we wait for the SAT’s new restaurant to open, enjoy their pop-up terrasse, opening on June 12 – a fantastic place for after-work drinks, get-togethers before shows in the Dome, or simply hanging out with friends. There’s a great selection of beers, wines and cocktails, all in a friendly setting with a gorgeous view of the downtown core! On opening night, rig thrall and zepha will have everyone dancing all night!

GALAXIE BRASSERIE

1414 CLARK ST.

This laid-back European-style brasserie is located on Esplanade Tranquille, with a welcoming terrasse that makes an unbeatable spot for savouring an intimate meal. Under the leadership of chef Guillaume Lepage, the kitchen serves up a varied menu inspired by French classics. There’s a lunchtime table d’hôte, and you’ll enjoy the excellent wine list and delicious cocktails.

CAFÉ TRANQUILLE

1442, CLARK ST.

Located inside the Esplanade Tranquille pavilion, this café features a patio on the Esplanade, a great spot for getting together with friends or stopping for an impromptu drink. The café opens at 10 a.m. and serves a variety of hot and cold drinks and tasty snacks, including vegan and gluten-free options. And you’ll get a discount on your drink if you bring your own reusable cup!

BIVOUAC

1255, JEANNE-MANCE ST.

A happy blend of craft-cocktail bar, modern bistro and social club, Bivouac presents a unique culinary experience inspired by quality Quebec ingredients. Not only is the menu built around excellent local seasonal products, the names of the dishes honour the province’s cities and regions. The huge terrasse overlooking Place des Festivals provides a unique panoramic view.

KAMÚY

1485, JEANNE-MANCE ST.

This restaurant owned by Haitian-Canadian chef Paul Toussaint boasts an irresistible pan-Caribbean menu that salutes the culture and history of the islands. The restaurant is bathed in exceptional natural light, and it’s a fine place for get-togethers. Its terrasse opens onto Jeanne-Mance St., letting you soak up the festive atmosphere on Place des Festivals!

MUZE LOUNGE & TERRASSE

355, DE MAISONNEUVE BLVD. WEST

Perched on the fifth floor of the luxurious Hôtel Honeyrose, this trendy bar is known for its jungle-inspired décor and large covered terrasse with a spectacular view of the Quartier des Spectacles. Couples and groups head there to take a break from the bustling streets, dine on fine Mediterranean fare and enjoy the party vibe spun by DJs every Wednesday through Sunday.

PAPITO RESTAURANT

1425, SAINT-ALEXANDRE ST.

This latest entry from the group behind Furco and Café Parvis is named in honour of the father of one of the owners. Its mission: creating memorable moments for families and friends. They serve generous portions of delicious dishes, many of them big enough to share. With its lush vegetation, the terrasse is a delightful spot for al fresco dining.

LE BALCON X TERRASSE

463, SAINTE-CATHERINE ST. WEST

Le Balcon’s terrasse is on the parvis of St. James United Church – and it quickly emerged as one of the Quartier’s most popular spots. It offers an exceptional culinary experience accompanied by a wonderfully festive evening vibe: from 6 to 11 p.m., DJ Cynful spins a dynamic mix of soul, disco, house and pop.

BIIRU

1433, CITY COUNCILLORS ST.

In the shadow of St. James United Church, this elegant Japanese izakaya is a superb place to grab a bite and a drink before a show. The excellent cocktail selection complements the restaurant’s mouth-watering traditional fare, including plates for sharing. The charming terrasse is tucked away from the street, enhancing the feeling of being transported to another land.