Bring Your Own Wine Restaurants in Montreal: Guide
One of Montreal’s most beloved dining traditions is the bring your own wine restaurant, known locally as “Apportez votre vin” or simply BYOW. You pick up a bottle on the way, the restaurant opens and serves it, and you pay only for the food. It is a great way to enjoy a special bottle or keep a group dinner affordable. Here is how BYOW works in Montreal, where to look and the etiquette to follow.
How BYOW restaurants work
Restaurants that do not sell alcohol themselves can hold a specific Quebec permit allowing customers to bring their own wine (and, depending on the permit, beer) to drink with a meal. The restaurant provides glasses, opens the bottle and serves it. Look for a sign in the window or a mention on the menu or website saying “Apportez votre vin”.
What you can usually bring
- Wine: the classic option, red, white, rosé or sparkling.
- Beer or cider: often accepted; check with the restaurant.
- Spirits: generally not part of BYOW service.
Where to find BYOW restaurants in Montreal
The Plateau-Mont-Royal is famous for them, especially around Prince-Arthur Street and Duluth Avenue, where pedestrian-friendly blocks are lined with bistros, Greek tavernas and Italian spots. You will also find BYOW restaurants scattered across many neighbourhoods, from Little Italy and Villeray to the West Island and Plateau side streets. Cuisines range widely: French bistro, Greek, Portuguese, Italian, Vietnamese, Lebanese and more.
Corkage fees: do you have to pay?
Many Montreal BYOW restaurants do not charge corkage, which is part of their appeal. Some may charge a small fee, especially higher-end places or on special occasions. Ask when you book. Remember that your bill includes GST and QST on food, plus the tip; our restaurant bill and tip calculator helps you split costs in a group.
BYOW etiquette: the unwritten rules
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Buy your bottle before you arrive | Showing up expecting the restaurant to sell wine |
| Let the server open and pour | Bringing your own corkscrew and glasses unless invited |
| Bring a bottle that matches the cuisine | Bringing more bottles than your table can reasonably drink |
| Tip on the food service as usual | Skipping the tip because the wine was yours |
| Offer the server a taste of something special | Arriving with spirits |
Choosing the right bottle
Think about what you will order:
- Greek or Mediterranean grills: a crisp white, rosé or a light red.
- French bistro dishes: a red from the region the dish comes from is a classic pairing.
- Seafood and fish: a mineral white or sparkling wine.
- Spicy Asian dishes: an off-dry white like Riesling.
- Steak or game: a structured red.
Chilled whites and sparkling wines should be cold when you arrive; some restaurants offer an ice bucket.
Booking and practical tips
- BYOW restaurants are very popular on Friday and Saturday nights: reserve ahead. Our guide on getting a restaurant reservation in Montreal has tips.
- Check the restaurant’s hours: some close earlier than bars.
- Plan your ride home. Quebec has strict impaired driving laws; use public transit, a taxi or a designated driver.
- If you do not finish your bottle, ask whether you can take it home properly resealed.
Reading the menu in French? Keep our French menu glossary handy. Exploring the South Shore too? This Brossard local guide covers restaurants and services just across the bridge.
FAQ: BYOW restaurants in Montreal
What does “Apportez votre vin” mean?
It means “bring your own wine”. These restaurants let you bring your own bottle to drink with your meal.
Can I bring beer to a BYOW restaurant?
Often yes, but it depends on the restaurant and its permit. Ask when you book.
Is BYOW cheaper than a regular restaurant?
It can be, since you avoid restaurant wine markups. Total cost depends on the food prices and the bottle you choose.
Do I still tip at a BYOW restaurant?
Yes. Tip on the food bill as usual; some diners add a little extra when the server provides wine service.