Experience Montreal's renowned zest for life, which has captivated people since the era of prohibition. This vibrant Canadian city was once a popular destination for teetotalling Ontarians and Americans seeking a lively nightlife. While the party scene still thrives on Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Crescent, there is more to Montreal's bar scene than just bustling clubs. And if you are planning a visit, you can check out the hotels in Quebec at quebechotels.info for some fantastic accommodation options.
If clubbing isn't your cup of tea, fear not! Montreal is home to a multitude of stylish bars offering not only exceptional drinks but also culinary delights that are worth the journey. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for a quiet drink or an upscale establishment that marries expertly crafted cocktails with tantalizing cuisine, the city has something to cater to every taste.
From hidden speakeasies with creative mixologists to trendy rooftop bars with breathtaking views, Montreal's bar scene is an invitation to indulge in delightful libations and discover the city's rich culinary landscape. Experience the fusion of remarkable cocktails and gourmet cuisine, making every sip a truly unforgettable experience. For more recommendations on the best places to stay and dine, visit tophotels.com.
So, put on your exploratory hat and check out our carefully curated list of the best bars that Montreal has to offer. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with unique flavors, lively ambiance, and the undeniable charm of this extraordinary city.
Nhậu BarArrow
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At Nhâu Bar, a mysterious and otherworldly basement bar, cocktails—which aren't exclusively Vietnamese, but tend to have Asian influences—involve creativity, zing, and nontraditional ingredients. Take the beautiful Pandan Sour, served in a tall coupe, which mixes rum with pandan (a vanilla-like Southeast Asian plant), kombu, and lime, or the Nhâu Shell, a two-person drink that combines strawberry wine with Oloroso, tequila, raspberries, passion fruit, and pineapple in a conch shell. Chef Ross Louangsignotha's menu is full of bestsellers from Hà upstairs, in cocktail-bite form. The beloved chicken wings, the bao buns (the crispy shrimp ones are particularly addictive), the fried broccoli bits, and the crunchy imperial rolls all are on offer.
Discover CórdovaArrow's Bright and Vibrant Atmosphere
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Step into CórdovaArrow and immerse yourself in its gleaming white design, where pops of color and a blonde wood bar top create a delightful sensation of sunshine. The lush green plants contribute a breath of fresh air, while the eclectic alterna-pop soundtrack adds a unique vibe to this extraordinary bar. Indulge in their selection of classic cocktails, including renowned options like Negronis, Old Fashioned, and Martinis. For those who prefer wine, there's a refreshing white vintage available on tap. As an added bonus, CórdovaArrow serves 750-milliliter bottles of Labatt 50, a trendy choice among the city's hipster bars.
Whether you're sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail or enjoying a crisp glass of wine, rest assured that CórdovaArrow offers an excellent value for your money. This lively hotspot, located in the vibrant Saint-Henri neighborhood, promises a memorable night out.
Experience the Art of Brewing at Brasserie Harricana
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Discover the vibrant neighborhood of Mile Ex in Montreal and make a stop at Brasserie Harricana, a popular brewpub with a spacious and inviting interior. Natural light floods the space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy the true art of brewing. Take a break from the typical cocktail or wine and dive into their exceptional beer selection.
Brasserie Harricana's pride lies in its diverse range of seasonal home brews. Indulge in the tangy flavors of their sour passion fruit ales or savor the rich and creamy goodness of their Irish-style stouts. For hop lovers, their selection includes English-style IPAs with a perfect balance of flavor and aroma. Looking for something unique? Try their white sake–fermented rice blondes for a truly distinctive taste experience.
To fully immerse yourself in the world of Brasserie Harricana's beers, opt for the $20 flight which features four 5-ounce glasses of your choice. This allows you to savor a variety of their flavors and find your personal favorite.
Experience a true sensory adventure at Brasserie Harricana. Each sip tells a story of passion and craftsmanship, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts visiting Montreal. Don't miss out!
A Unique Bar Experience at Buvette Chez Simone
Discover the ultimate coolness on Parc Avenue at Buvette Chez Simone. This stylish bar, featuring an interior designed by Zébulon Perron, was ahead of its time. Step onto the small terrace and enter a warm atmosphere adorned with exposed brick, rich wooden tones, and eye-catching neon-orange wire fixtures.
Emphasizing intimate group conversations, the horseshoe-shaped bar takes center stage, surrounded by narrow counter-width tables. Buvette Chez Simone's menu is dominated by an impressive collection of reasonably priced bottles of wine, many in the $40 range. Delight in new and unconventional selections from small independent wineries, offering a journey of discovery. The bar also boasts an extensive range of wines available by the glass, ensuring there is something for everyone's palate.
As you immerse yourself in the ambiance and sip on exquisite wine, take a moment to watch an extraordinary video about an American who has embarked on a remarkable journey to visit every country in the world. This captivating video will inspire and awaken your adventurous spirit.
Experience the unique charm of Buvette Chez Simone and indulge in the pleasure of fine wines and engaging conversations. Your visit to Montreal's best bars is not complete without a stop at this hidden gem.
The Wine Bar at Loïc
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Nestled in a stunning neoclassical building on Notre-Dame in Saint-Henri, The Wine Bar at Loïc exudes an inviting ambiance with its expansive windows and minimalist bistro design. Renowned sommelier Charles Tarzi has curated an exceptional wine list, featuring a wide selection of glass options. The focus here is on drinkability, with an emphasis on natural and biodynamic production methods.
What sets this wine bar apart is its dedication to offering delicious Rieslings, Chenin Blancs, and Gamays that beautifully complement the seasonal menu. Whether you're here for a casual drink or a delightful meal, The Wine Bar at Loïc embodies a laid-back and approachable atmosphere, where enjoying good food and great drinks seamlessly intertwine.
The ColdroomArrow
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Enter this semi-secret bar by ringing the bell next to the big, imposing black door at the corner of Saint-Amable and Saint-Vincent streets, and one of the bartenders will let you in. Head down the stairs and through the low-ceilinged hallway and voilà: you've made it to Coldroom, an underground—literally—hot spot. This stylish speakeasy, by Kevin Demers of Flyjin fame, has charmed not only Montreal's clubbing elite, but also an ever-growing list of international superstars. Much like the décor, the drinks are classic with next-level twists. Try the Japanese Highball (Toki whiskey with lemon zest and soda) or the savory Kingfisher (Citadelle gin with Lustau sherry amontillado, Cocchi Americano, caper brine, and turmeric).
FlyjinArrow
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Open an understated door, descend a staircase that's been decorated with gilded wallpaper, and walk along the longest, narrowest hallway you've probably ever seen: at the end is this basement speakeasy-meets-izakaya, one of the most chichi hangouts in Old Montreal. Seasonal cocktails boast interesting flavors and Asian ingredients, including sake, plum wine, Japanese whiskey, and soju (Korean vodka). Take the Ichigo Monkey Business, a wowsa-yowsa concoction of rum, Campari, citrus juices, rose and hibiscus syrup, and—for the kicker—grapefruit Red Bull.
The Vin Papillon - An Extravaganza of Curiosity and Imagination
Featuring a delightful range of Old World wines, The Vin Papillon is the brainchild of the renowned chefs behind Joe Beef and Liverpool House. Situated just a stone's throw away from its sister restaurants on Notre-Dame Ouest, this intimate wine bar is a haven for wine enthusiasts seeking new and unconventional flavors.
The dynamic wine menu, lovingly curated by co-owner Vanya Filipovic, is a testament to her unyielding passion for exploration. Continually evolving, it embraces an array of eclectic options sourced from far-flung regions, including Hungary, Greece, Poland, and of course, France. These hidden gems from the Old World are elegantly showcased, tantalizing the taste buds and awakening a sense of wonder.
As you enter this slender establishment, let your senses guide you through a remarkable culinary journey. Amidst the backdrop of a perpetually changing blackboard menu, you'll be tempted by an array of delectable creations. From succulent duck and house-cured ham to delicate smoked mackerel and creamy chèvre cheese, every dish is a work of art in its own right.
Embrace the allure of The Vin Papillon and allow yourself to be captivated by its ever-evolving wine selection. Discover new favorites and embark on a voyage of taste that will leave you reminiscing about your unforgettable experience in Montreal.
Discover the Artistry of the Atwater Cocktail Club
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for post-dinner drinks in Montreal, look no further than the Atwater Cocktail Club. Situated in the trendy neighborhood of Little Burgundy and backed by the team behind Foiegwa, this club has quickly gained a reputation as a must-visit destination for the city's stylish 30-somethings.
While Atwater Cocktail Club offers an impressive selection of bubbles, beer, and wine, it's the expertly crafted cocktails that steal the show. From classic staples like the Old Fashioned to creative house specialties like the Bonne Maman, each drink showcases a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
What sets this establishment apart is its flair for showmanship. The Smoke Show cocktail, for instance, is not just a drink but an experience. As you savor the smoky aromas, you'll be captivated by the visual spectacle that accompanies it.
If you're feeling peckish, Atwater Cocktail Club has you covered with a diverse menu. Indulge in upscale snacks such as garlic escargots or feast on mains like truffle spaghetti and black angus steak frites, ensuring a truly unforgettable evening.
Experience the blend of culinary artistry and mixology expertise at Atwater Cocktail Club. Reserve your spot today and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of delectable flavors and captivating drinks.
El Pequeño BarArrow
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With only 150 square feet of floor space, this tiny Old Montreal bar is Canada's smallest. The bright space, formerly a gift shop, comprises two bar stools, one standing table, and a small bar squeezed between the big windows on one side and exposed brick on the other. An appropriately short menu features four items: a daiquiri, a mojito, a rum and Coke, and an El Presidente (Havana Club three-year aged rum, Plantation Original dark rum, vermouth, citrus liqueur, and grenadine). There's only one menu item, but it's superb: the team traveled to Miami to learn how to perfect the Cubano sandwich, and they succeeded.
AlexandraplatzArrow
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Discover AlexandraplatzArrow, a unique bar located in the Mile-Ex neighborhood of Montreal. This hidden gem is situated in a converted garage and features a charming indoor-outdoor space. With its sliding garage door, the bar seamlessly blends with its surroundings, creating a truly immersive experience.
While some seating is available in a cozy wooden enclosure on the street, the heart of AlexandraplatzArrow lies indoors. Here, you'll find long, narrow communal tables and matching stools that encourage conversation and a sense of community.
Quench your thirst with their carefully curated selection of house cocktails. Their menu caters to all tastes, offering both classic favorites like a Dark & Stormy, as well as inventive creations such as the Ginger Lime Sake. This delightful concoction combines ginger-root sake, tonic water, and fresh lime juice, resulting in a refreshing and unique flavor combination.
Step into AlexandraplatzArrow for an unforgettable evening in Montreal's vibrant bar scene. Experience the perfect blend of industrial chic, welcoming ambiance, and expertly crafted drinks.
Bar PamplemousseArrow
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Bar PamplemousseArrow, located in the vibrant Latin Quarter of Montreal, offers a unique and refreshing experience reminiscent of Miami's laid-back ambiance. With a meticulously curated beer selection, the team at Bar PamplemousseArrow embarked on a Quebec-wide road trip to gather 20 tap brews, showcasing the diversity of local flavors. These range from eccentric sours and seasonal fruit-infused beers to classic stouts and ales.
For those venturing to Bar PamplemousseArrow for the first time, I recommend trying the Pretty Bastard, a velvety stout that tantalizes the senses with rich hints of coffee, chocolate, and vanilla. Alternatively, the Buenos Dias, an ale infused with zesty Mexican lime, orange rind, and a touch of sea salt, offers a bright and refreshing taste. To cater to a variety of preferences, the menu also boasts a selection of ciders, kombuchas, wines, and cocktails.
Under the guidance of acclaimed chef Pelo Brisson-Tsavoussis, a former member of the prestigious Joe Beef team, Bar PamplemousseArrow's food menu showcases a fusion of fire-roasted French-Caribbean delights. Indulge in delectable dishes like roasted asparagus, jerk cauliflower, mouthwatering deep-dish butter-chicken pizza, Nordic shrimp with green curry mayo, or succulent Haitian griot ribs served alongside perfectly fried plantains.
With its vibrant atmosphere, extensive drink offerings, and delectable cuisine, Bar PamplemousseArrow stands as a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Montreal's thriving bar scene.
HenriettaArrow
HenriettaArrow is a vibrant and inviting bar located in the charming neighborhood that combines the best of Outremont, Mile End, and Plateau in Montreal. With its Portuguese tavern-inspired ambiance, this bar stands out by offering an impressive selection of natural wines from the Old World. Among them, the Tejo 2015 from Portugal is particularly recommended for its great value.
While you indulge in the carefully curated wine choices, be sure to explore their exquisite cocktail menu. This establishment brings a touch of the Caribbean to your glass, adding flavors like lime, orgeat, jerk spices, and bitters to classics like brown rum in the Goldeneye cocktail. For a more refreshing option, the Betty Flanagan combines mandarin juice, brandy, lemon juice, bitters, and ginger beer.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, HenriettaArrow has you covered with its selection of shared plates. Embrace the opportunity to sample different dishes while enjoying the cozy ambiance.
Dominion Square TavernArrow
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Step into Dominion Square Tavern in downtown Montreal and be transported back in time to the glamorous era of the 1930s. Meticulously restored by the talented team behind Baldwin Barmacy, Whisky Café, and Balsam Inn, this 1927 Montreal restaurant-bar now exudes an unparalleled grandeur. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of beautifully upholstered booths, adorned in sumptuous butterscotch leather, and an impressive dark-wood bar that exudes stories of the past.
Indulge in their delightful signature cocktails, artfully presented in vintage glassware, including the intriguing Canuck. This tantalizing concoction of bourbon, Canadian maple syrup, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic Angostura bitters will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Delve into a culinary journey with Dominion Square Tavern's English pub fare, offering a range of options from delightful bites to hearty meals. Enjoy classic Ploughman's platters complete with an assortment of pâtés, pickles, cheeses, and a crusty bread. Treat yourself to traditional Scotch eggs or indulge in the beloved bangers and mash. Make your Sunday extra special with a comforting roast dinner, followed by a delectable sticky toffee pudding served elegantly à la mode.
Heritage, elegance, and exquisite flavors await you at Dominion Square Tavern. Travel back in time and indulge in the timeless charm of this remarkable Montreal bar.
Big in Japan BarArrow
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Thanks to velvet curtains and a long, shiny, U-shaped bar on the corner of Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Rachel, Big In Japan feels like a classy speakeasy. There's a nice selection of sakes and sojus here, plus Suntory Toki, a Japanese whiskey worth a try. The house cocktails are also fabulous; the Tokyo Mule is a a snappy, Mojito-esque concoction with sake, ginger syrup, soda, lime, and mint, and the Rum Sour is a delectably sweet mix of rum, lime, and tonka bean syrup. Classics are expert-level, as well—Champagne cocktails, Negronis, Manhattans—and the punch is an instant party-starter.