Marci: pizza and natural wine on the Plaza

At Marci, it’s not just the food and the wine that matter; music is a key ingredient too. No surprise, since several of its co-owners are veterans of the scene. With its New Jersey-flavoured menu, its lovely natural wine list and its excellent sound system, this newcomer on Plaza St-Hubert has what it takes to turn heads — and turntables!

Behind the project is a group of friends from all sorts of backgrounds, who between them own several well-known Montreal spots (Fleurs & Cadeaux, Sans Soleil, Mal Nécessaire, among others): Julien Patenaude, David Schmidt, Alex Geoffrion, Kris Guilty, Hideyuki Imaizumi and Marc-André Patry. They all share the same passion for restaurants, hospitality and music. They firmly believe in the revival of Plaza St-Hubert, which is exactly why they chose to set up here.

Marci bonsoir

The name “Marci” has several meanings. Some might think it’s a nod to Marcy Avenue in Brooklyn, but it’s really a tribute to Mario C., the father of one of the owners. The space that now houses the bar was also once a jewellery shop called Marco; and it’s a little bit of a “Merci!” in the spirit of Gerry Boulet.

The décor, dreamed up by David Schmidt and interior designer Daniel Finkelstein, is a blend of inspirations: a Las Vegas wedding, the vintage look of the legendary Chalet Bar-B-Q, a 1960s Italian bistro. The materials were carefully chosen to create a pleasant acoustic atmosphere that encourages conversation, even when the music is pumping through the speakers. Those speakers, by the way, were custom-built to deliver the best possible sound quality. The restaurant’s roughly 70 seats are spread across a long bar, small two-tops along the wall and a long L-shaped banquette, plus a mezzanine that holds 25 and can be privatized for groups. The whole thing is warm and welcoming.

For the vibe, you’ll be able to count on some of the best DJs in town (a few of whom are part of the team!), the owners promise.

New Jersey Style

Chef Alex Geoffrion puts together a menu inspired by “New Jersey style.” “I love the States!” he tells us. “I built a menu with things I find comforting and unpretentious.” Pizzas, casino clams (clams served on the shell with breadcrumbs and bacon) and a Caesar salad topped with two beautiful anchovy fillets are a few of the classics you’ll find on the menu.

The wines — natural and, for the most part, private import — are offered at fair prices. Plenty of wines and digestifs by the glass, hovering around $15, are written by hand on the big mirror behind the bar. We’re also glad to find negronis and martinis at $10!

What do the owners love most about their restaurant? The lively atmosphere, the natural wine selection, the closeness to the community and the chance to share their passion for food and wine with a wide audience. They’re devoted to offering a quality experience at an affordable price, all while fostering a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere for their guests.

With its young, dynamic team, its affordable offering and its gorgeous décor, Marci is a lovely addition to Plaza St-Hubert. Well worth discovering!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Updated on August 11, 2026

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