L’idéal | New Wine Bar & Podcast Studio in Downtown MTL
Located at the corner of Ontario and de Bullion streets, L’idéal bar & contenus is the new and unusual hybrid of a bar, café, club and podcast studio, launched by a diverse group of creatives, that seeks to bring together fans of natural wine, culture and the arts.
First and foremost, the bar’s wine service is led by the sommelier duo formed by Frédérique-Anne Brosseau and Sydney Auger, who have judiciously selected a refreshing menu of natural and uninhibited wines.
On the menu, a series of emojis describes the many wines in the form of categories including de soif (thirsty), de course (on the run) and signature, to name a few.
To eat, the selection currently includes several platters to share, as well as small dishes including cod, poultry mousse and pork, creations by chef Julia Giraud.
The iconic space – which previously housed Mme Lee and the legendary Jello Martini Lounge – was completely transformed by the design agency Finkel.
A mix of wood, marble and brown leathers in a raw texture-oriented spirit lends a sense of authenticity to the space of over 35,000 square feet. The back room, which includes the podcast studio, brings in a whole new energy and allows for private events and cultural happenings.
Cocreated by lez spread the word magazine founder Florence Gagnon and Radio-Canada cultural columnist Eugénie Lépine-Blondeau, the new podcast recording studio – Studio idéal – camped at the back of the bar, is a partnership between L’idéal bar & contenus and MOOG Audio. Many podcasts are scheduled, including Sorcières, a women’s lib talk show hosted by journalist Judith Lussier.
Every month, an event program including live recordings and discovery events will bring together common interests related to culture, the arts and wines, such as the En Résidence wine club run by Sydney and Florence, and its podcast hosted by Eugénie.
In addition to tastings and descriptions of the wines presented; the monthly events will also be embellished with special guests and current themes, bringing together wine enthusiasts, beginners or initiates for discussions and exchanges in a festive and accessible atmosphere, energized by DJs like Gayance and Guillaume Michaud. With such an ideal setup, what more can you ask for?
Here is what you need to know about L’idéal
Location: 151 Ontario St E, Montreal, Quebec H2X 1H5
Opening Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 11 AM to Midnight
Facebook: @lidealmtl
Instagram: @lidealmtl | @enresidence
Website: lidealmtl.com
Best Kept MTL does not condone the overconsumption of alcohol or other substances. If you are going to consume alcohol or cannabis, please do so responsibly and only if you are of legal age. If you are finding more often than not that you cannot consume responsibly, it is time to get some help.
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