Verdun Beach: Favourite “guinguette” on Wellington Street

Opened on June 24, 2020, Verdun Beach is a great neighbourhood buvette! Featuring a concept that is still relatively uncommon in Montreal, Verdun Beach takes the form of a guinguette where you drink well, eat well, and dance until you’re dizzy (outside of pandemic times).

At one time in France, a “guinguette” was a popular cabaret in the suburbs of Paris that also functioned as a restaurant and neighbourhood drinking spot.

Three veterans of the restaurant world are behind this wonderful project, which officially opened the day after the lockdown was lifted. The three minds behind the operation are Charles Garant, Marc Frandon, and Philippe Jacquelin, each bringing their own expertise to the table. Charles worked for many years at Aux Vivres, Marc is a wine importer with the private wine agency Primavin, and Philippe Jacquelin is a trained designer who notably helped design the terraces of Majestique and Confetti alongside Thomas Csano.

For the record, Verdun Beach set up shop in the former Balconville space. The current owners discovered the location in March 2019 and immediately fell in love with it. After settling in and refreshing the space, they initially planned to announce a festive opening around March/April 2020. The rest of the story, everyone knows… Because of the pandemic, it was simply impossible for them to begin this new adventure on the planned date. The cheerful team therefore celebrated its official opening in June, when restaurants reopened, and has since offered Verdun locals a lovely place to escape for an evening.

The place first charms visitors with its décor and its 1970s vibe. The dominant tones lean toward orange-brown hues that blend into a vintage setting reminiscent of Hollywood or even Miami during the postwar boom years in the United States.

As for drinks (since that’s also—or especially—why people come here), Marc showcases the Primavin agency through Verdun Beach’s wine list, which features more than 100 natural wine references. Guests can sip delicious wines from around thirty independent winemakers. The menu is rounded out with a few house cocktails and a selection of craft beers.

Verdun Beach is not only a bar where you drink well—it’s also an excellent eatery! From small bites to bigger appetites, the house satisfies everyone. Chef Philippe Gougeon, known from establishments such as Park and Roseline, prepares a delicious menu full of freshness that evolves with the seasons. Those with a sweet tooth will also be delighted, as the menu offers some lovely desserts.

The goal was to recreate the lively spirit of French guinguettes, to bring a little lightness during uncertain times, and to bring guests back to the simple pleasures of life: eating well, drinking well, and enjoying it all in good company. Mission accomplished—we happily return!

For wine lovers, also check out our list of the best wine bars in the city right here. In addition, this address is featured in our guide to the most beautiful terraces in Montreal!

Written by Clay Sandhu
Photography by Alison Slattery

Updated on April 17, 2026

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