Montréal's most beautiful winter rooftop terraces
Now that it’s getting a little chillier outside, we’re saying goodbye to outdoor terrasses, but who says we have to skip our soaring vistas? We’ve rounded up the best restaurants and bars where you can soak up the Montréal skyline, all cozy and chic.
Hiatus
Perched atop Place Ville Marie, the city's highest restaurant-bar offers a dazzling Franco-Japanese menu and a panoramic view of Montreal's urban landscape. Welcome to the 8th heaven. Take the opportunity to discover its little sister, Sora 45, a refined Japanese counter serving sushi, wine and cocktails.
1 Place Ville Marie, 45th and 46th floor
Portus 360
This excellent Portuguese restaurant treats you to two floors of dining with panoramic city views. Experience an unforgettable afternoon or evening thanks, among others, to the its 360-degree rotation that lets you admire Montréal in all its splendour. You and your company will love the traditional Portuguese petiscos prepared with a modern and creative flair.
777 Robert-Bourassa Boulevard, 30th floor
Restaurant Île de France
The historic Art Deco restaurant Le 9e and Restaurant Île de France have reopened their doors after a quarter-century of closure. Classified as part of Quebec's cultural heritage in August 2000, they have been wonderfully restored. The Île-de-France restaurant, in addition to offering a fabulous view of downtown, seats 120 guests, regaled by Chef Liam Hopkins (Hopkins, McKiernan, Park) and Culinary Director Derek Dammann (Maison Publique, McKiernan, Fifteen). Enjoy a gastronomic experience featuring French culinary traditions infused with New York and Montréal influences.
1500 Robert-Bourassa Boulevard, on the 9th floor of the Eaton Centre
Terrasse du William Gray
Get comfy in one of the heated domes on the rooftop of the William Gray Hotel and feast on a magnificent full-course meal or a delicious brunch as you soak up the sweeping views of the dazzling and luminescent Place Jacques-Cartier, the St. Lawrence River and the Grande Roue de Montréal. A chic, cozy and can’t-miss experience!
421 Saint-Vincent Street, 8th floor
Les Refuges du Bivouac
The weather outside may be frightful, but inside the dome, it’s delightful! Settle in for an evening or lunch under a magical dome facing Place des Festivals in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles and discover for yourself why this enchanting wintry setting was the recipient of the 2023 Tourism Montréal Distinction Award in the Gastronomy category. On the menu: a six-course gastronomic experience created by Chef Xavier Dahan to feature seasonal northern flavours with four distinct themes (vegetarian and vegan options available). New this year: on Sundays and Mondays, enjoy a glass of sparkling wine on the house and starting in January, thematic Tuesdays will feature live performances to add to the magical atmosphere. A fire pit, a tea and hot chocolate bar round out the experience, warming visitors inside and out.
1255 Jeanne-Mance Street, 6th floor
Marcus
This sublime Four Seasons restaurant in downtown Montréal’s Golden Square Mile neighbourhood offers several choice tables and places along the bar to admire the mural dedicated to Leonard Cohen created by Gene Pendon and El Mac. A five-star view that comes with an exquisite menu created by Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Date night at its dreamiest!
1440 De la Montagne Street, 3th floor
Belvu Hors-piste
An après-ski scene smack dab downtown? It’s all this and more at the Montréal Marriott Château Champlain! Nestled high above the city with crackling fireplaces, cozy terrace heaters, soft, snuggly furs and giant arcade games for the little ones, this winter terrace promises an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a delightful selection of hot drinks and indulge in comforting dishes like irresistible raclette and the famous Kogo, a delicious twist on the classic Korean pogo, reimagined with Quebec flair. Perfect for a magical winter escape!
1050 De la Gauchetière Street West, 3rd floor
Emmanuelle Lounge
Nested in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles in the 2-22 building at 2 Sainte-Catherine Street East, this lounge has made a name for itself with its year-round terrace tucked under a giant glass roof. It is, without a doubt, one of Montréal’s prettiest four-season pergolas. Delicious cocktails are expertly prepared with top-notch spirits and seasonal ingredients, and its refined menu wows the most sophisted palates.
2 Sainte-Catherine Street East, 5th floor
Original article in French by Laure Juilliard, adapted into English by Dawn Bessey-Gans.
Laure Juilliard
Originally from Paris, Laure Juilliard made Montréal her home over 15 years ago and has never looked back. Won over by her new city's unique energy, cultural vibrancy and gastronomic effervescence, she loves exploring all the coolest spots. A writer and blogger specialising in lifestyle, culture, travel and gastronomy, she has lent her pen to Tourisme Montréal for more than 10 years, in addition to magazines such as ELLE Québec and Clin d'œil, as well as a variety of well-known companies and agencies. Always on the lookout for innovative concepts and the best addresses wherever she is in the world, she is also always planning her next trip.