Restaurants Near Place des Arts Montreal: Where to Eat Before a Show
Place des Arts is the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, home to the Montreal Symphony Orchestra’s Maison symphonique, the Opéra de Montréal, Les Grands Ballets and festivals like the Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs. Here is how to eat well before or after a performance.
Best areas within walking distance
- Quartier des Spectacles itself: restaurants and bars around the public squares, plus food halls and the Complexe Desjardins across the street, convenient on a tight schedule.
- Chinatown: a few minutes’ walk south, with dumplings, noodles and Hong Kong-style cafés for a quick, affordable meal.
- Saint-Laurent Boulevard (the Main): walk north toward the Plateau for bistros, delis and bars.
- Downtown (Sainte-Catherine West): steakhouses, brasseries and chain restaurants a few blocks west.
Timing tips
- Book a table at least two hours before showtime, and tell the restaurant you have a show so they can pace the meal.
- Many restaurants nearby offer a pre-theatre menu early in the evening; ask when booking.
- Leave 15 minutes to walk, check your coat and find your seat.
- For a relaxed meal, consider dinner after the show instead; many bars and bistros serve late.
Getting there
Place des Arts has its own metro station on the green line, connected to the underground city, which is very convenient in winter. Paid parking is available under the complex, but it fills up quickly on festival nights.
During festivals
During the Jazz Festival, Francofolies or Montréal en Lumière, the area is crowded and terraces fill fast. Reserve early or grab food from festival stands and enjoy the free outdoor shows.
More ideas: where to eat in Montreal and romantic restaurants.
