BYOB Restaurants in Montreal: How “Apportez Votre Vin” Works

One of the most charming features of Montreal’s dining scene is the “apportez votre vin” restaurant, better known to English speakers as BYOB, or bring your own bottle. In these restaurants, you bring your own wine to dinner instead of ordering from a wine list. It is a tradition that many visitors discover with delight, and that Montrealers have embraced for decades.

The best BYOB rooms are small and book up quickly on weekends, so it pays to reserve a table in advance.

This guide explains how BYOB restaurants work in Montreal, where to buy your wine, the etiquette to follow and how to make the most of the experience.

What does “apportez votre vin” mean?

“Apportez votre vin” literally means “bring your wine”. Restaurants with this designation hold a permit that allows customers to bring their own wine, and in many cases beer, to drink with their meal. Look for signs reading “Apportez votre vin” or “AVV” on the window or the menu.

These restaurants generally do not sell alcohol themselves. The concept allows guests to enjoy a bottle they love without restaurant markups, while the restaurant focuses on the food.

Why BYOB is so popular in Montreal

• Value: you pay store prices for wine instead of restaurant prices, which can make a big difference on the final bill.
• Choice: you can bring a special bottle, a favourite producer or a wine you have been saving.
• Relaxed atmosphere: many BYOB restaurants are friendly neighbourhood spots perfect for groups and celebrations.
• Variety of cuisines: you will find BYOB restaurants serving French bistro fare, Greek, Portuguese, Italian, Indian, Vietnamese, Persian and many other cuisines.

Where are BYOB restaurants in Montreal?

BYOB restaurants exist across the city, but some neighbourhoods are especially known for them.

The Plateau Mont-Royal

The Plateau is the heart of Montreal’s BYOB culture. Prince-Arthur Street and Duluth Avenue have long been associated with bring-your-own-wine dining, and many small restaurants on the side streets follow the tradition.

Mile End and Outremont

These neighbourhoods offer a mix of casual and refined BYOB restaurants, often with creative menus.

Villeray, Rosemont and Little Italy

Further north, family-run BYOB restaurants are common, especially in neighbourhoods with a strong immigrant culinary heritage.

For a broader view of each area’s food scene, see our neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood guide to where to eat in Montreal.

Where to buy wine before dinner

In Quebec, wine is sold at the Société des alcools du Québec (SAQ), the provincial liquor corporation, as well as in grocery stores and dépanneurs (convenience stores), which offer a more limited selection. For a wider choice of quality wines, an SAQ branch is the best option. Plan ahead: store hours vary, and you will want to buy your bottle before heading to the restaurant.

Grocery stores and dépanneurs also sell beer, which many BYOB restaurants allow.

BYOB etiquette in Montreal

Bringing your own wine is easy, but a few simple courtesies make the experience better for everyone.

• Check the policy first. Confirm when booking that the restaurant is BYOB and whether beer is also accepted.
• Bring wine, not spirits. The permit typically covers wine and, in many cases, beer. Spirits are generally not allowed.
• Bring your bottle chilled if needed. Some restaurants have limited fridge space, so chill white wines and bubbles at home.
• Let the staff open it. Most servers will open your bottle and bring glasses.
• Ask about corkage. Some restaurants charge a small corkage fee, while others do not. It is a good idea to ask when you book.
• Tip on the full experience. Since the server still opens and pours your wine, many guests tip generously to reflect the service.
• Take unfinished bottles home if permitted. Ask the staff how to transport an opened bottle in accordance with the rules.

How to pair wine with BYOB menus

Since you choose the wine before you see the menu, a little planning helps.

• Check the restaurant’s menu online before going to the SAQ
• For a varied group meal, bring both a white and a red
• Light reds and dry rosés are versatile with many dishes
• Crisp whites pair well with seafood, salads and many Asian dishes
• Bolder reds suit grilled meats and rich sauces
• Bubbles are a perfect start for any celebration

Planning a BYOB night with a group

BYOB restaurants are ideal for birthdays and gatherings. Reserve in advance, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings, and confirm how many bottles you plan to bring. If you are organizing a larger event, our guide to a restaurant in Montreal with a private room can help. For other budget-friendly ideas, see cheap eats in Montreal.

Drink responsibly

BYOB dining encourages lingering conversations and shared bottles. Plan your ride home in advance: use public transit, a taxi or a designated driver. Quebec has strict rules against impaired driving.

FAQ: BYOB restaurants in Montreal

What does BYOB mean in Montreal?

BYOB means “bring your own bottle”. In Montreal, these restaurants are often identified as “Apportez votre vin”, meaning you can bring your own wine, and often beer, to enjoy with your meal.

Can I bring beer to a BYOB restaurant in Montreal?

Many BYOB restaurants accept beer as well as wine, but it is best to confirm with the restaurant when you book.

Do BYOB restaurants charge a corkage fee?

Some do and some do not. Policies vary, so ask the restaurant in advance.

Where can I buy wine in Montreal?

Wine is sold at SAQ stores, which have the widest selection, as well as at grocery stores and dépanneurs, which offer a more limited choice.

Which neighbourhood is best for BYOB restaurants?

The Plateau Mont-Royal is the most famous area for BYOB dining, but you will find bring-your-own-wine restaurants in many neighbourhoods, including Mile End, Villeray, Rosemont and Little Italy.