The end of May brings an explosion of musical diversity to Montreal’s biggest stages. From a historic co-headlining tour of bachata kings and a country superstar’s outdoor extravaganza to the farewell of a legendary comedian and the raw energy of a rising rap star, this week has something for every taste. Before the shows, discover an inventive BYOB destination in the east end that is redefining the neighbourhood’s culinary standards.
👉 For more nightlife and dining picks, visit MontrealNightlife.com.
🍱 Restaurant of the Week: Bistro Le Cerf-Volant
📍 Address: 8225 Rue Hochelaga, Montréal, QC H1L 2L3 (Tétreaultville)
The east side of the city can rejoice with the arrival of Bistro Le Cerf-Volant, which breathes new life into the former space of the iconic Taverne Reeves in Tétreaultville. This restaurant offers a “bring your own wine” experience that stands out from the current offerings in the neighbourhood with its high-end concept and commitment to quality. Its modern bistronomic cuisine showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients, blending friendliness and authenticity with contemporary gastronomy.
Atmosphere & Décor
The task of revitalizing the space was entrusted to the design studio Catherine Catherine, which faced the main challenge of preserving the essence of Taverne Reeves. It’s safe to say they succeeded.
The decor is stunning, cozy, and enveloping. Highlights include the charming intimate terrace at the front of the restaurant, the brown ribbed ceramic that adorns the service station, and the black plexiglass light fixtures that add a modern touch to the space. Even the tavern chairs have been preserved as a nod to the past. Bravo!
🍽️ What to Order: Unique and Refined Flavours
The menu, crafted by chef Robert Lapaj (DoubleTree by Hilton, L’Ardoise)—a hotel school graduate—brings thoughtful dishes that balance precision and creativity. The kitchen honours the chef’s Polish heritage while embracing French and Asian influences.
Starters (Entrées):
- Pierogies aux champignons ($17): A standout favourite. Mushroom and porcini-filled pierogies served on a layer of sour cream, beet purée, caramelized onions, and topped with Padano cheese. A beautiful homage to the chef’s Polish roots.
- Crabe des neiges ($25): Snow crab served with cornbread, bisque, and cajun spices—rich, coastal, and indulgent.
- Foie de veau ($17): Calf’s liver with apple cider, shallot confit, and pear—a classic prepared with finesse.
- Ris de veau ($18): Sweetbreads with ginger, sweet potato, and honey—a delicate, flavourful starter.
- Crudo du jour ($21): Fresh crudo of the day with green pepper, kalamata olives, and lemon—bright and refreshing.
Plats (Mains):
- Bavette de boeuf (50/84 with table d’hôte): Flank steak with romesco sauce, oyster mushrooms, and chimichurri—a robust, satisfying main.
- Scialatielli alla vongole (41/75 with table d’hôte): Scialatielli pasta with clams, turbot, lemon, and confit tomatoes—a taste of the sea.
- Magret de canard (44/78 with table d’hôte): Duck breast with avocado purée, lemongrass, cilantro, and peanuts—sharp, explosive flavours that work beautifully together.
- Pétoncles poêlés (50/84 with table d’hôte): Pan-seared scallops with parsnip, yellow apples, and Sichuan pepper—delicate and elegant.
- Tartare de boeuf (43/77 with table d’hôte): Beef tartare with guanabana aji, yucca, and cilantro aioli—a creative take on a classic.
Desserts:
- Le fameux beigne ($11): The famous doughnut. Served with maple, sea buckthorn, and bacon—served with vanilla ice cream. It’s decadent, and you will still be thinking about it long after.
- Sernik ($11): Polish cheesecake made with twaróg cheese, poppy seeds, and apricot—a traditional favourite.
- Le dragon vert ($11): Kiwi, Midori melon liqueur, and passion fruit—light, bright, and refreshing.
- Plateau de fromages (24/+13 with table d’hôte): A cheese plate with seasonal accompaniments.
Special Features & Formats:
- Amuse-bouche: The evening begins with a complimentary bite from the chef.
- Trou normand ($7): A palate cleanser between courses.
- Table d’Hôte: Available for each main course, including the amuse-bouche, starter, main, trou normand, and dessert.
- Group Menus (75or85 per person): Available for groups of 15 or more, including the amuse-bouche, trou normand, and a choice of starter, main, and dessert.
🍷 The BYOB Advantage
Le Cerf-Volant is proudly a bring-your-own-wine establishment. There is no corkage fee, allowing you to bring the perfect bottle from your cellar to accompany the inventive, flavourful cuisine. A nice selection of non-alcoholic cocktails is also available.
Why You Should Go
Because Bistro Le Cerf-Volant brings a new vision to the culinary offerings of East Montreal, redefining standards with meticulously crafted dishes. The atmosphere is lively without being noisy, the service is warm and attentive, and the prices reflect the quality and care put into each plate.
For a romantic date or a gathering with friends, don’t hesitate to bring your best bottle of wine and let yourself be carried away by the flight of Le Cerf-Volant. It is a destination worth the trip in the east.
🔗 Visit Le Cerf-Volant’s website
🎤 Performances of the Week
Presented by MontrealNightlife.com
💃 Romeo Santos & Prince Royce at Bell Centre
For the first time ever, bachata kings Romeo Santos and Prince Royce join forces for the historic “Mejor Tarde Que Nunca Tour 2026.” Two of the most successful Latin artists of all time share the stage for a night of romantic, dance-inducing hits. This is a landmark event for fans of bachata and Latin music.
📍 Venue: Bell Centre
🗓️ Date & Time: Thursday, May 28, 2026 — 8:00 PM (Doors: 7:00 PM)
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
🤠 Luke Combs at Parc Jean-Drapeau
Presented by LASSO Montréal, country music superstar Luke Combs brings his “My Kinda Saturday Night” show to Parc Jean-Drapeau for two massive nights. One of the biggest names in modern country, Combs delivers hit after hit with his powerful voice and relatable songwriting. With special guests Dierks Bentley, Ty Myers, and Thelma & James.
📍 Venue: Parc Jean-Drapeau (Doors: 4:00 PM)
🗓️ Dates: Friday, May 29 & Saturday, May 30, 2026
🎟️ Ticket Options: General Admission, PIT (limited capacity), Terrace (private platform, luxury washrooms), and private Tables, Booths, and Suites.
🎟️ For tickets and information click here (Evenko)
Mike Ward at Bell Centre
Québécois comedy icon Mike Ward takes over the Bell Centre for two special events. On Friday, May 29, he presents an emotional final performance of his acclaimed show “MODESTE”—a grand farewell in front of a mourning (but surely laughing) crowd. Then on Saturday, May 30, he returns to record a live episode of his wildly popular podcast “Sous Écoute” in front of a public audience.
📍 Venue: Bell Centre
🗓️ Dates: Friday, May 29 & Saturday, May 30, 2026
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
🎸 The Guess Who at Place Bell
Canadian rock legends The Guess Who bring their timeless catalog to Place Bell. With hits like “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” and “No Time,” the band defined a generation of rock music. This is a night of pure nostalgia and classic rock power.
📍 Venue: Place Bell, Laval
🗓️ Date & Time: Friday, May 29, 2026
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
🌸 Fredz at MTELUS
Québécois singer-songwriter Fredz brings his “On s’enverra des fleurs” show to MTELUS for two nights. One of the most beloved new voices in Francophone pop, Fredz’s heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies have earned him a devoted following. (Note: Fredz also performs on Friday, May 29, 2026.)
📍 Venue: MTELUS, 59 St Catherine Est
🗓️ Date & Time: Saturday, May 30, 2026 — 8:00 PM (Doors: 6:30 PM)
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
🎧 Haute & Freddy at Le Studio TD
Haute & Freddy bring their “Big Disgrace Tour” to Le Studio TD. This 18+ event is a high-energy showcase of their unique musical fusion. Expect a night of bold sounds and electrifying performance.
📍 Venue: Le Studio TD, 305 rue Sainte-Catherine West
🗓️ Date & Time: Saturday, May 30, 2026 — 8:00 PM (Doors: 7:00 PM)
🔞 Age: 18+
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
🎤 Baby Keem at MTELUS
GRAMMY-winning rapper and producer Baby Keem brings his “The Ca$ino Tour” to MTELUS. One of the most exciting young voices in hip-hop, known for hits like “Family Ties” (with Kendrick Lamar), “Orange Soda,” and “Hooligan,” his live show is an explosive display of raw talent and energy.
📍 Venue: MTELUS, 59 St Catherine Est
🗓️ Date & Time: Sunday, May 31, 2026 — 8:30 PM (Doors: 7:00 PM)
🎟️ For tickets click here (Evenko)
📚 Sources
