It’s terrasse season in Montréal

In Montréal, we do things – and say things – differently. Which is why a corner store is called a dep (from the French “dépanneur”), the subway is referred to as the métro, and outdoor patios are known as terrasses. For that added “je ne sais quoi” to your Montréal “joie de vivre,” here’s your guide to 10 amazing places for outdoor summer sippin’.

Terrasse Nelligan: Seeing that Hôtel Nelligan is basically flawless, it makes sense that this Old Montréal boutique hotel’s rooftop terrasse is of equal quality, and comfy and casual too. Imagine unimpeded views of both Old Montréal and the Old Port, as well as the savoury scent of freshly cooked fish and meats on the venue’s outdoor grill.

Auberge du Vieux-Port: Any discussion of picture-perfect Old Montréal terrasses would be remiss if it didn’t include the equally awesome Terrasse sur L’Auberge (atop Auberge du Vieux-Port), with its similarly inspired views of the St. Lawrence River and Old Montréal. This rooftop lays claim to being the best place to watch the annual fireworks competition.
Irish Embassy Pub Grill Faith and Begorrah! This traditional Irish pub is a hit with both visitors and happy gaggles of regulars alike. And its expansive outdoor acreage – terrasses in front and back – is a rarity in downtown Montréal. Indeed, its sprawling, tree-lined beer garden (the back patio) is ideal for chillin’ and swillin’.

Le Sainte-Élisabeth: Located just off Sainte-Catherine Street East near the Quartier des Spectacles, the welcoming, two-floor, European-style pub is complemented by a jewel of a terrasse featuring trees, flower beds and ornate lighting, all surrounded by 45-foot-high, ivy-covered walls. An urban oasis unto its own.

Le Saint-Sulpice Café-Bar: Le Saint-Sulpice on Saint-Denis Street in the heart of the Latin Quarter boasts one of the biggest and liveliest terrasses in town. A leafy canopy, central fountain and ambient lighting contribute to the popularity of this Montréal mainstay.
Society for Arts and Technology [SAT]: Not content just to be a hub for innovative digital music and technology, the SAT is also home to a trendy third-floor terrasse. Large gathering tables and comfy couches, not to mention the imaginative, high-quality cuisine courtesy of the FoodLab initiative (and its rockin’ outdoor grill) keep the crowds coming back.

Newtown: Although this spot is well-known for its founder, Montréal F1 racing legend Jacques Villeneuve, what might be a surprise for some is that this inviting, Mediterranean-style resto/lounge also has an attractive wood-decked rooftop terrasse (called Notre Terrasse) with a commanding view of all the Crescent Street action below.

Sky Pub: No mention of top-tier terrasses can exclude the much-celebrated rooftop of Sky Pub, on Sainte-Catherine Street East in the heart of the Gay Village. The club’s perma-party vibe gets a big helping hand from a mini-pool, Jacuzzi and sizable bar famous for its sangria.

JARGO Chophouse and Mixologie/Hotel 10: JARGO, a new concept in the boutique property Hotel 10, is where comfort and cool come together over great steaks and inventive drinks, with a sprawling, 100-seat terrasse to match. Located atop the historic Godin building, the patio, which overlooks Saint-Laurent Blvd., has a transparent canopy for all-weather enjoyment.

Hyatt Regency Montréal: This utterly unique terrasse, which winds around the sixth floor of the downtown Hyatt Regency, offers an unparalleled view of the Quartier des Spectacles and the architecturally impressive Place des Arts. When it comes to taking in the massive and lively outdoor sites of the Jazz Festival, Les Francofolies and the Just For Laughs festival, there is no better perch.