Cul-sec

I originally came here right after it opened, I had an incredibly rude welcome from the waitress, and left without ordering anything. I live nearby though, and I knew I liked the owners and the concept, so I would peek in whenever I walked by to feel it out. Recently it was a quiet night and my man and I were tired and torn about where the get fed and rest our bones so we headed in. This time there was nothing but an incredibly warm, happy, relaxed welcome. The waitress seemed like a professional, she gave excellent advice on the wine and plates and managed the pacing of the service just right. We were so happy with the wine list and with our bottle, super interesting and affordable, and the homemade gnocci and the chocolate tarte were super tasty standouts in a meal full of nice flavours.
I’m so happy that this tiny, romantic, casual spot with it’s incredible wine and beer list and delicious food has found quality service to match. I wish them nothing but the best and can’t wait to go back.

Pour tout les amateurs de vins, Cul-​sec est un incontournable. Un menu digne des plus grands restaurants avec une sélection de vin incroyable, ce restaurant est idéal pour un souper en tête à tête. Avec son ambiance décontractée et raffinée, on y retrouve toutes sortes de personnes différentes qui n’ont qu’un point en commun: le plaisir de bien boire et bien manger.

This little spot offers wines (including ‘vin nature’ and organic wines) on private import (ie not available at the SAQ) by the glass or bottle. You can actually buy bottles to go if you purchase a meal (note you also have to eat in order to drink there).
The food is classic and pairs well with wine (go figure). A group of friends and I tried a variety of things including the chopped liver, beef tartare, caesar salad and we were quite pleased. The portions are just large enough and everything tasted fresh (albeit a little rich).
The spot is quite small and intimate (as in you may be sharing counterspace or a sitting at a large shared table), so expect some ‘joie de vivre’ in the atmosphere while you enjoy your food and wine. The staff seemed knowledgeable and eager to sell wine. Not a complaint since that’s the concept! A nice addition to Beaubien.

Ouvert depuis peu, il s’agit en fait d’un caviste. Vous devez manger (ou prendre pour apporter) un repas complet (de 8 $ pour un sandwich a 18 $ pour un repas plus élaboré) afin de pouvoir acheter du vin, à consommer sur place ou pour emporter. C’est tout petit avec 4 ou 5 tables hautes et un petit comptoir. Tabourets (on né s’éternise pas).
La bouffe: nous avons mangé une entrée de champignons sur une tartine et des tartares de bœuf. Très bon dans l’ensemble mais la salade en accompagnement était un peu simple.
Le vin: carte assez élaborée, avec des vins natures et plusieurs petits producteurs. Idéal pour faire des découvertes sans prétention avec quelques bouteilles à moins de 30 $. Il y a aussi des trucs plus exclusifs qui valent la peine (ravenneau a 110 $).
Très bonne musique, service gentil, ambiance correcte. Décor très minimaliste et confort moyen. Concept original.