Tabac Villeray: a magnificent neighbourhood café-wine bar

Tabac is a neighbourhood gathering place that clearly deserves its spot on our list of Villeray’s best addresses. A café by day, a wine bar by night, and always a good reason to stop by. You come here for a quick lunch, brunch with friends, or a dinner that lingers. The menu draws inspiration from French cuisine, served in a space with a European touch and an atmosphere that’s always relaxed, friendly, and inclusive.

A real hit
It was by chance, walking past the space, that Patrick Bernatchez—one of the owners—got the idea to create a small neighbourhood café. Although the project had been on his mind for a few years, he decided to fully commit to the adventure in June 2022, with the help of Guillaume and Jean-François. The original vision was simple: to create a space for lovers of art and culture while serving good food and good wine. Mission accomplished. Whether it’s a book launch or an art opening, the venue can host up to 70 people, and its large summer terrace makes it even more inviting.

Morning, noon, night
In the kitchen, chef Jean-François de Villemure crafts the menu, drawing mainly on his love of forest products and seafood to offer a cuisine that is both restrained and thoughtful, inspired by classic bistros. On the menu, you’ll find a few favourites like veal tartare, foie gras with Williams pear, or a lightly cured salmon gravlax—also available Tuesday to Saturday after 9 p.m. at a special late-night price. And if the plan is simply to share a board or a platter of oysters over a good bottle, Tabac is the place to be. Don’t skip the shoestring fries, a house staple.

On the drinks side, the team has clearly done its homework: a solid wine list (natural, organic, biodynamic), well-crafted house cocktails, and microbrewery beers. In short, a wine bar in the truest sense of the word, with everything you need to stretch out the pleasure.

Weekend brunches
Many regulars like to say that Tabac Villeray’s brunches are, for now, one of the city’s best-kept secrets. The menu changes with the seasons, offering dishes that are both indulgent and refined. And good news: Tabac is one of the few spots where you can make a reservation for brunch—a real luxury when weekend planning can sometimes feel like a challenge.

We love Tabac because it’s the kind of place that simply feels good: a true neighbourhood anchor where you move seamlessly from morning coffee to evening wine. It’s the sort of address that quickly becomes a habit, no matter the occasion.

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: January 04, 2026

Make a suggestion