The bars and drinks that wowed local Montreal writers and photographers in 2024

Montreal’s bar scene wasn't just pouring drinks throughout 2024—it was setting the tone for so many of the city’s best nights out. From understated wine bars to sleek speakeasies, the places that stood out may not always have been the flashiest, but they all delivered atmosphere, creativity, and memorable menus.

We asked local food writers, photographers, and critics about the spots that defined their year in drinking. Whether it was a perfectly executed gin martini at Double’s, a whisky-and-cocoa butter revelation at Salon Badin, or the cozy familiarity of Taverne Atlantic, these are the bars and cocktails that made the city’s nights unforgettable.

For a scene that might not boast as many newcomers as the restaurant world, the quality—and variety—of these favourites is undeniable.