Rooftop Terrasse R in Montreal

Terrasse R: a two-level rooftop right downtown

At the top of the Renaissance hotel

On Robert-Bourassa Boulevard, between Place Ville Marie and the Eaton Centre, the Renaissance Montreal Downtown Hotel hides a terrace spread over two levels on its roof. Palm trees, green walls and lounge furniture create a holiday setting amid the office towers. As for the view, you look down onto the boulevard and the steeple of neighbouring Christ Church Cathedral, while to the south your gaze runs between the skyscrapers all the way to the St. Lawrence River.

A good part of the terrace is covered and heated when needed, which makes it possible to stretch out evenings at the beginning and end of the season.

Asian food and summer cocktails

The menu blends summer classics with Asian flavours: dumplings, chicken wings with plum chili sauce, salmon sashimi, inarizushi, chirashi poke bowl or Korean burger, with sharing platters for groups. At the bar, Aperol Spritz and margaritas sit alongside house creations with yuzu or lavender, sangrias and a short list of wines by the glass.

Parties and private events

On several evenings over the summer, DJs take to the decks from 5pm. The terrace can be booked in part or in full, for up to 120 people, for a corporate happy hour, a party or a wedding, and it opens all year round for private events.

Practical information

The terrace is seasonal: it opens in the warm months and closes in winter. In summer, it is open for lunch and dinner every day; check the dates and opening hours before you go. Expect to pay $17 for a classic cocktail and $19 to $21 for a house creation, before taxes and tip. Book online or on +1 514 657 5000 (extension 3). Access through the hotel, 1250 Boulevard Robert-Bourassa; McGill metro station (Green Line), a few minutes' walk away.