La Buvette Chez Simone: the must-visit wine bar on Avenue du Parc

Opened in 2008 on Avenue du Parc, La Buvette Chez Simone is one of those places that feels like it has always been part of Montreal’s landscape. A wine bar where you come for a glass, share a few small plates… and often end up staying longer than planned. Behind the project are Simone Chevalot and Gabrielle Bélanger. Pioneers of the wine bar scene in Montreal, they launched one of the city’s very first buvettes—now one of our favorites in Mile End.

A lively space that stands the test of time

This buvette is a truly vibrant, unpretentious spot where wine is at the heart of the mission. Since it opened, many addresses have tried to replicate the formula, but few have managed to recreate the same balance. The design plays a big role in the experience: wood everywhere, an industrial look, large communal tables that invite groups to settle in, and above all, the central bar—the focal point of the space. La Buvette Chez Simone was one of the first major projects by renowned designer Zébulon Perron, who has since completed many others and received awards for this one.

“The layout has kept its original identity. It’s aging beautifully, standing the test of time, and it still feels good to be in. The years have passed, and it may not reflect what’s trending now, but it still has that warm quality that makes us happy to welcome people into this environment.” — Simone Chevalot

A menu built on accessibility

La Buvette Chez Simone is known for its shareable menu. From day one, ordering has been part of the ritual: you make your selections in pencil on order slips—simple, efficient, and wonderfully convivial. Quebec cheeses are proudly featured, and the charcuterie is made in-house. We also come for the cod fritters (among our favorites in the city), the famous Greek salad in homage to Scala—the bar that once occupied the space—as well as the roast chicken (generous and flavorful) and its succulent fries. The menu evolves with the seasons and is rooted in accessibility.

“We’re very proud of our offering, and it’s important to us that it suits all budgets: that was our identity from the start, and it’s still deeply anchored. Our chef, Jonathan D’Amour, who has been in the role since summer 2025, is extremely thoughtful and involved. He’s committed to finding ingenious and creative ways to design standout dishes without driving up costs, both in execution and ingredient selection. The idea is to remain an inclusive destination at a time when dining out has become a luxury for some,” Simone tells us.

“We give carte blanche to our sommelier, who knows our clientele’s tastes and the trends, and ensures our wines remain accessible. We want to break the elitist image of wine. Since opening, we’ve had a house cuvée available by the glass or half-litre: organic, well chosen, and within everyone’s reach.” — Simone Chevalot

Earlier in the week, the atmosphere is more intimate—perfect for a date. The establishment operates mainly without reservations, embracing the spontaneity of being in the moment. Groups are always welcome, though reservations are recommended for parties of eight or more. With its kitchen open until midnight, La Buvette is on our list of the best late-night dining spots—and also among the bars where you eat exceptionally well in Montreal.

In any case, you can’t go to La Buvette Chez Simone without having a lovely evening: there’s something truly comforting about this place. On summer nights, the beautiful terrace is among the most sought-after in the city. It’s also a perfect address for a weekday date or a girls’ dinner on a Saturday night. And yes, like thousands of others, we love La Buvette Chez Simone; for all these reasons, it proudly earns its place on our list of Montreal’s must-visit spots.