How to Read a Montreal Menu Like a Local
Montreal's restaurant scene is one of the most diverse in North America. While many menus are bilingual, you'll still come across expressions and traditions that might leave visitors wondering if they're missing something.
The good news? Once you know a few local customs, ordering becomes second nature.
Here are a few things you'll want to know before your next reservation.
BYOW (Apportez votre vin)
One of Montreal's best-kept dining secrets is the abundance of Bring Your Own Wine restaurants.
Known locally as Apportez votre vin, these restaurants don't serve alcohol, meaning guests are invited to bring their own bottle from a nearby SAQ or grocery store (where permitted).
It's a great way to enjoy an excellent meal while spending considerably less than you might at a traditional restaurant.
Tip: Don't forget a bottle opener—although most restaurants have one available.
Table d'hôte
If you see Table d'hôte on a menu, don't assume it's just another dish.
A table d'hôte is a prix fixe menu, usually including:
- Appetizer
- Main course
- Dessert
Sometimes coffee is included as well.
You'll often find the best value at lunchtime, when many restaurants offer shorter versions of their dinner menus at a lower price.
Cinq à sept
Literally translating to five to seven, the cinq à sept is Montreal's version of after-work social hour.
Many bars, wine bars, and restaurants offer:
- discounted cocktails
- wine specials
- shareable plates
- oysters
- happy hour menus
It's one of the best times to experience the city's social atmosphere without committing to a full evening out.
Terrasse Season
The moment temperatures begin to rise, Montreal transforms.
Locals don't simply eat outside—they actively seek out the city's best terrasses.
From hidden courtyards in Old Montreal to rooftop restaurants downtown, terrace season is practically a local sport.
If you're visiting between May and September, booking ahead is highly recommended.
Reservations Matter
Montreal has no shortage of incredible restaurants, but many of the city's most sought-after spots fill up days—or even weeks—in advance.
If there's a place you've been hoping to try, reserve early.
Walk-ins can still be rewarding, especially at bars and smaller neighbourhood restaurants, but planning ahead gives you far more options.
Service and Tipping
In Quebec, tipping is customary.
A gratuity of 15–20% before tax is generally expected when service is good.
Many payment terminals calculate the tip after tax by default, so don't be surprised if the suggested percentages appear slightly higher than expected.
A City Built Around Food
One of the things that makes Montreal special isn't just the food—it's the culture surrounding it.
Long dinners.
Neighbourhood cafés.
Late-night wine bars.
Weekend brunches.
Seasonal terraces.
Food here is less about rushing through a meal and more about enjoying the experience.
Understanding a few local customs simply makes it easier to do what Montrealers do best: slow down, order another plate to share, and stay a little longer.