The Great Big Bar List: Where to Drink in Montreal (August 2026)

Entre-Deux built its NDG reputation on precision that never asks for credit. Numéro is that same instinct pointed at cocktails, dropped into the thick of Little Italy's restaurant strip. Marc Flynn, Félix Poirier, and Alex Quinton kept the layout minimal and the light low, working in brown tones and 1970s furniture arranged so that no seat feels like an afterthought. The drinks split the difference between invention and the canon, made with the quiet discipline that has become the group's calling card. Late-night bites lean Spanish, simple and timed to land when you want them.

Restarted by chefs Pablo Rojas and Hakim Rahal of Provisions Bar à Vin alongside Andrew Whibley of Cloakroom, Bar Dominion revisits the old Dominion Square Tavern formula, drawing inspiration from both its recent iteration and its 1927 origins as a hotel restaurant. The menu is leaner now, focused on drinks and snackable food: a raw bar brimming with oysters, crab, caviar, and lobster. The cocktail list runs 25 deep, broken into martinis, negronis, whiskey-forward options, 75s and spritzes, and highballs. Less reinvention, more refinement.

Taverne Atlantic landed in Mile Ex in late 2019 and quickly became a neighbourhood hotspot. Restaurateurs Alexandre Baldwin, Alexandre Wolosianski, and Éric Dupuis built a stylish Art Deco space with a long bar, central seating, and a rooftop terrace. The drink menu, curated by Frédérique Fortin and Alexandre Taillon, runs creative cocktails alongside a solid selection of beers and wines. Chez Eddy Snack Bar handles the food: pizzas, hot dogs, poutines, American comfort with gourmet touches.

Snowbird Tiki Bar offers a vibrant escape you won't find elsewhere in Montreal. Step through the bamboo entrance into an island-themed paradise: Hawaiian-shirted bartenders, fish decorations, retro music, swings and cozy booths. Drinks like the Pink Flamingo and Cobra's Fang are as good to look at as they are to drink, all rated by alcohol content. Shareable punches arrive in rock bowls with floral garnishes. The décor and inventive cocktails make it a perfect retreat, especially when winter hits.

The Coldroom is an intimate speakeasy-style bar in Old Montreal offering a refined, clandestine experience. Enter through an unmarked black door at Saint-Amable and Saint-Vincent, ring the bell for admission. Inside, staff present a seasonal cocktail menu with inventive twists on classics and wholly new creations emphasizing experience and flavour. Cozy nooks, minimalist décor, exposed brick, steel beams. Known for attracting celebrities and cocktail enthusiasts alike, The Coldroom delivers expertly crafted drinks and top-notch service in an exclusive setting.

Messorem Bracitorium—"The Grim Reaper's Brewery"—has become a craft beer destination since opening in 2019 along the Lachine Canal. The spacious taproom and canalside terrasse draw crowds for creamy IPAs, crowd-pleasing lagers, robust Double IPAs, and bourbon barrel-aged stouts. The beer list runs from low-alcohol thirst quenchers to heavy hitters, all brewed in-house. Mitch Deli handles the food pairings. A top spot for beer lovers in the Sud-Ouest.

Projet Pilote blends distillery, microbrewery, restaurant, and bar into one cohesive space. Over half a decade in the works, it's the city's first venue integrating both a distillery and microbrewery. Located next to La Banquise, expect small batches of gin and eaux de vie alongside house-crafted beers. The kitchen uses produce from the rooftop garden for flavourful dishes. Experimentation thrives here.

Travel up a black-lit staircase and you'll find yourself in Milky Way's universe. This Pointe-Saint-Charles bar from the Barroco Hospitality Group features a jungle terrarium skylight and vaporwave accents. The cocktail menu draws from tiki traditions and Latin American classics, with ingredients like champagne reductions and toasted sesame oil. Hanging plants, a sleek marble bar, neon-lit glass brick walls. Plus, pizzas from Fugazzi downstairs. Vibrant, eclectic, and worth the climb.

A red carpet in a Saint-Henri alley leads to Atwater Cocktail Club, a speakeasy without the password. Inside, dark walls, silver banquettes, and glass ceilings inspired by French discotheques create a dramatic, intimate atmosphere. The cocktail program, led by award-winning mixologist Kate Boushel, features elegant drinks with high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Signature creations like the 40 Thieves impress; French brasserie bites from sister restaurant Foiegwa complement the drinks. No reservations, so be ready to wait on busy nights.

Open since August 2023, Bar Bello blends tradition and Italian charm in Little Italy. Created by Kevin Demers and Benny Bello, this 65-seat bar (plus 60 outside) exudes European elegance: black-and-white checkerboard floors, navy velvet banquettes, a bar stocked with Italian liqueurs. La Chambre Design Co. handled the space; mixologist Matt Baker crafts classic and innovative Italian cocktails. High-quality antipasti, nibbles, and a negroni vending machine you shouldn't skip. True Italian drinking culture, Montreal-style.

Le Mal Nécessaire started in a Chinatown basement in 2014 and now occupies a larger space on Saint-Alexandre Street. This tropical, tiki-inspired bar from David Schmidt, Alex San Gergorio, and Evan Cowie blends chic minimalism with vibrant charm. The Juliane Camirand–designed room features plush velvet banquettes, warm hues, and subdued lighting for up to 160 guests. Cocktails are meticulously crafted with fresh, homemade ingredients, signature drinks arrive in hollowed-out fruit, and DJ-curated music keeps the vibe right. Eco-friendly practices and high-quality libations in one welcoming package.

Old Montreal's El Pequeño Bar offers an escape to Old Havana glamour in just 150 square feet. Transformed by the Coldroom team, this intimate spot accommodates 11 guests inside (plus more on the summer terrasse). Cuban-inspired décor, a chandelier, big windows, exposed brick. The drink menu covers Mojitos, Daiquiris, Cuba Libres, and house creations like the Runs in the Family. The Cubano sandwich pairs perfectly. Despite its size, El Pequeño draws a diverse crowd for an intimate, exclusive experience.

Whether you want cocktails between rounds of pool or a late-night hangout, Bon Délire delivers. Past the pawn shop–style exterior, the décor—reminiscent of the late '90s—creates a festive, comforting vibe. Boilermakers, alcoholic slushies like frozé, and expertly crafted cocktails by Thomas Yeo and Kate Boushel. A deli-style menu keeps you from drinking on an empty stomach. Play pool on the leopard-print table, enjoy a quiet drink after work, or party until early morning. Bon Délire is there for anyone looking for a good time.

Badin hums dimly below Little Burgundy's HENI restaurant, a 24-seat cocktail-forward listening lounge that opened in April 2024. Access through HENI's front doors into a space designed by Juliane Camirand: low lighting, velour banquettes, a central DJ stage. It's cozy and cocooned, reminiscent of an audiophile's living room. Soufian Mamlouk and cocktail director Émile Archambault lead the program with innovative, seasonally changing drinks alongside curated multi-genre vinyl. Intimacy, high-quality sound, and artisanal cocktails in one memorable package.

Modelled after a French guinguette, Verdun Beach is less of a wine bar and more of a mood. Opened in 2020 by Charles Garant, Philippe Jacquelin, and Marc Frandon (the latter behind natural wine import agency Primavin), the space brings old-world charm to Wellington Street. The sharply seasonal kitchen punches above its weight, with dishes like corn salad poured tableside with a velouté of its own kernels. The wine list is arranged by winemaker, not region, and reads like a who's who of natural wine. Come sundown, the disco ball kicks in and the guinguette lives up to its name.

Vinvinvin opened in La Petite-Patrie in 2019, bringing a playful yet sophisticated wine bar experience to the former Brutus space on Beaubien. Marina De Figueiredo, Antonin Laporte, and Nikolas Da Fonseca focus on central and northern European wines, categorized by palate with labels like "punk" and "émotion." Nordic-inspired design, colourful tones, a central bar. Local beers and small shareable plates complement the bottles. A fresh spot for even fresher wines.

Originally a local dive for Saint-Henri residents, Bar de Courcelle was renovated in 2013 while keeping much of its original charm. Over 50 years of history, a nostalgic '60s and '70s aesthetic, vintage textures and materials. Tall bottles of beer, classic cocktails, comfort food in a relaxed setting. Laid-back by day, lively by night with DJs, live bands, and open mics. A beloved neighbourhood institution where locals and visitors gather.

Burgundy Lion has been a Little Burgundy fixture since 2008, blending British pub tradition with Montreal sensibility. Décor filled with England travel memorabilia and artist collaborations. A rotating beer list including two house brews, plus one of Quebec's largest whiskey collections with over 500 bottles. Pub fare stays true to its roots—bangers and mash, Lancashire hotpot, shepherd's pie—with seasonal updates. Brunch brings the full English, Scotch eggs, avo toast, and mimosas. Welcoming and reliable.

Réservoir on Rue Duluth has earned acclaim for steadfast reliability and charm. House-brewed beers enjoyed atop a picturesque rooftop terrace, a stellar kitchen, and about a dozen finely crafted beers at any time. The cherry beer holds a special place in many hearts. A 2017 renovation brought a sleek, modern look with a longer bar, 40 indoor seats, and a 30-seat terrace. Cozy, casual, and consistently good.

Rouge Gorge has been a cherished Plateau wine bar since 2015. Named after a Parisian tavern from the film Children of Paradise, the Zébulon Perron–designed space blends industrialism with intimacy. The wine selection pairs French bottles with global varieties alongside seasonal bites: oysters, pasta, grilled seafood. Summer brings the terrasse; year-round there's the intimate downstairs bar. Good booze, good food, essential drinking.

Grumpy's offers a unique, no-frills experience in downtown Montreal. Fresh kegs, affordable whiskey shots, live music: folk jams on Thursdays, jazz on Wednesdays, diverse acts on weekends. Located in a heritage building on Bishop Street, it's cozy and inviting—perfect for solo drinks, hanging with friends, or meeting new people. A solid selection of local beers and a variety of whiskies and bourbons. Genuine, unpretentious, and worth the visit.

Le Plongeoir in Mile End is a dive-inspired wine bar from Antoine Denis, Frédéric Létourneau-Archambault, and John Hale. This 35-seat spot blends back-alley vibes with high-quality, affordable natural wines. Lime-washed walls, dark green trim, a classic billiards table under a stained-glass lamp. The wine list emphasizes French natural wines from lesser-known producers; simple tapas—charcuterie, cheese, cold plates—complement the bottles. Great wine, relaxed setting, no pretension.

Nestled in a semi-basement on Park Avenue, Double's Late Night embodies contemporary dive bar energy in Mile End. Unwind over drinks, games, and bites in a space featuring a long bar, pool table, and TVs broadcasting sports. Chef Danny Smiles' simple menu highlights burgers, onion rings, fish and chips, and rotating specials—often Italian—when the mood strikes. Traditional dive bar elements infused with modern touches.

Located in the stunning Le Mount Stephen Hotel, Bar George offers British tradition with a Montreal twist. Vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, plush seating, 300-year-old stained glass, 22-carat gold fixtures. Weekend brunch brings the full English with black pudding, lobster eggs Benedict, scrambled eggs with black truffle. Evenings shift to Beef Wellington and black truffle risotto. Every meal feels like a special occasion—British-inspired luxury for Montrealers and visitors alike.

Tucked off Parc Avenue in Mile Ex, Bar Cicchetti brings Venetian charm to Montreal. Elyse Leclerc, Gabriel Lavallée, and Mathieu Delisle focus on cicchetti—small Venetian snacks—alongside curated wines including macerated vintages. The cozy, low-lit space was designed by Julia Manasas and Maxime Lefebvre; a vibrant terrace opens in warmer months. Organic and biodynamic wines, creative cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance make it perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and bites.

Originally a bespoke tailor shop, Cloakroom expanded in 2015 to include a hidden speakeasy accessible through its coat check. This 25-seat bar in the Golden Square Mile gained acclaim for exceptional cocktails, leading to a second location in Brisbane. The ambiance is swanky, with drinks crafted to order and crystal-clear ice adding elegance. No traditional menu—guests discuss preferences with expert bartenders who create tailored drinks, often inspired by pre-Prohibition classics. Founded by Andrew Whibley, Cloakroom blends clandestine charm with top-notch mixology.

Le 4e Mur begins with signing up for their newsletter to discover the secret location. Push through the "fourth wall" entrance into a Prohibition-era speakeasy steeped in mystery: burlesque shows, live jazz, dapper bartenders, drawn curtains. The founders—all national cocktail championship titlists, one the founder of L'École du Bar de Montréal—ensure top-tier mixology. Ideal for a romantic date or a night out, Le 4e Mur delivers innovative cocktails in a uniquely immersive setting.

Bisou Bisou is a charming Old Montreal cocktail bar ideal for apéritifs or a night out. Opened in 2023 by Kevin Demers, Gregory Buda (Dead Rabbit, Beagle), and Robert Weeks (Hawksmoor, Coldroom), this Mediterranean-inspired spot seats around 60 in a cozy setting of grey tones and burnt orange accents. The cocktail menu emphasizes apéritif-style drinks with alcoholic, low-alcohol, and non-alcoholic options. Fortified wines, Mediterranean-inspired preserves, and charcuterie and cheese round things out.

Bar Henrietta is a refined Portuguese-style bar recalling community taverns of the 1960s and '70s. Named for owner Alexandre Baldwin's heritage, the space features vintage tavern swagger with an open-concept upper floor and a kitschy lower level. Classic cocktails and Quebec beers pair with Portuguese-inspired small plates like Manchego popcorn and grilled cheese sandwiches. Inviting, nostalgic, and always a good time.

Once a simple espresso spot and preamble to Datcha, Kabinet has transformed into a refined dining destination. Inspired by 1970s Parisian bistros, the ADHOC Architectes–designed space features marble bistro tables, Thonet chairs, and a crystal chandelier from Ukraine. The menu showcases continental classics with modern twists: chicken-liver mousse with sea buckthorn gel, 90-day aged beef tartare, local and imported caviar. The acclaimed cocktail menu and dynamic wine list ensure a sophisticated yet unpretentious experience.

Established in 2014, Bishop and Bagg offers laid-back pub ambiance and classic eats in Mile End. From the Burgundy Lion team, expect wood accents, dark colours, an impressive gin collection, and bartenders who know how to use it. Bangers and mash, burgers, good drinks. Busy during brunch and lunch when Ubisoft designers flood in, but easy to get a good bite late at night.

Brouhaha is a microbrewery and pub with serious tavern energy. House brews on tap, a rotating selection from visiting breweries, everything from light and refreshing to rich and robust ales. The famed "poutiflette"—a decadent poutine twist—is perfect after a few rounds. Belgian-inspired house beers, 24 craft beers on tap, over 60 privately imported options. A true beer temple and longtime gathering spot for watching hockey or enjoying a local brew.

Housed in the former Alexandraplatz Bar, Wills Bar is the brainchild of cousins Ethan and Alex Wills, who turned a long-held microbrewery dream into reality. This Mile Ex venue features a large terrazzo bar and striking light fixtures. Easy-drinking, balanced beers alongside a thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail list. The Annika Krausz–designed industrial-chic space retains the garage's historical charm while adding European flair. A neighbourhood staple in the making.

Vices & Versa in Little Italy stands as a beacon for craft beer lovers. Quebec microbrew draft lines, an extensive selection of rare bottles, a meticulously curated chalkboard draft list. The kitchen elevates things with gourmet poutines and daily specials. Part of Montreal's first emerging microbrewery scene, now offering 40 taps dedicated to independent Québécois brewers and exclusive collaborations. Scotch, whiskey, and wine selections are notable, but the beer is the true allure.

Turbo Haüs offers a vibrant DIY venue where musicians and community collide. Cheap food and drinks alongside a reliable performance space. Live shows, trivia nights, comedy—all curated to appeal broadly. Whether you're a punk fan, a student, or exploring the city's cultural offerings, Turbo Haüs provides a welcoming environment for connection and creativity.

Poincaré is more laboratory than bar, excelling with craft beers and eco-friendly small plates. Opened in 2019 by Hugo Jacques, Jeremiah Bullied, and Francis B. Melançon, this Chinatown gem features a rooftop terrasse and lush garden, gravity-fed draft lines, and a rotating list of house-made beers. Innovative lacto-fermented dishes, funky natural wines, and cocktails like the Baijiu Caipirinha. A unique, delightful experience for locals and visitors alike.

La Buvette Chez Simone has been a beloved Parc Avenue spot since 2008. Éric Bélanger, Michel Bergeron, Fabien Lacaille, Gabrielle Bélanger, and Simone Chevalot built a laid-back yet attentive atmosphere in a Zébulon Perron–designed space of warm wood tones. Excellent wine selection, charcuterie, cheese plates—perfect for casual evenings or celebratory gatherings. A Mile End staple with vibrant, convivial energy.

Big in Japan Bar is a discreet speakeasy-style spot on the corner of Saint-Laurent and Rachel, opened in 2011. The nondescript door hides a labyrinthine, wrap-around bar adorned with hanging whiskey bottles, hundreds of candles, and plush draped walls. The drink menu features a stellar selection of whiskeys, sakes, and house cocktails like the Tokyo Mule and Rum Sour. Co-owners André Nguyen and Julie Bisson crafted a chic, welcoming atmosphere perfect for a cozy date or a night out. Don't miss the bottle-hanging service for regulars.

Occasionally we mention plans to visit this gem, and friends respond with "Where?" Though it's tempting to share the city's best-kept secrets, N Sur Mackay deserves careful handling. Tucked in the Golden Square Mile, this unassuming cocktail haven stands out for masterfully crafted drinks and amiable bartenders. Classic concoctions or unique creations, delivered with finesse. Intimate, sophisticated, ideal for those in the know.

Ahuntsic's cocktail bar is a revelation for those who've confined their social scenes to more renowned districts. Established in 2013 by Jean-Maxime Giguère, 132 Vintage was born to enrich Fleury Street with a cocktail haven. The initial offering—vintage classics categorized by style—has evolved to include trendy selections, house specialties, and a notable tiki assortment. Every sip testifies to the skill and creativity of the bartenders. A must-visit for cocktail aficionados.

Wolf & Workman from the Burgundy Lion Group brings old-world gastropub charm to Old Montreal. Named for former mayors Wolfred Nelson and William Workman, the space features imposing stone walls, red leather seating, and a long wooden bar. Cozy yet elegant, perfect for weekend brunch or a casual pint. Hearty, refined fare: lamb pie, pasta, a knockout burger, full English breakfasts, duck Scotch eggs, croque madame.

Le French Line is a bar built for time travel. Set on the reborn 9th floor of the Eaton Centre, this intimate 35-seater takes cues from the golden age of transatlantic voyages. Andrew Whibley's drinks lean into the 1920s and '30s playbook, updating classic milk punches and flips with modern technique. The raw bar, curated by seafood veteran Daniel Notkins, keeps things elegant: oysters, caviar, pristine seafood towers. Original tables from the Île de France ocean liner, a view over the city, a piano in the background. No gimmicks—just a place that understands the assignment.

L'infâme Tittle Tattle opened in July in the former Bon Service space in Old Montreal. Conceived by Loïc Fortin (Loyd Vonrose) and Ariel Goldstein, the bar's theme revolves around sins and gossip, with a glass urn where patrons anonymously share secrets that inspire weekly cocktail creations. Fortin's innovative techniques—fermentation, clarification—make each drink a vibrant, nostalgic masterpiece. Perfect design for enjoying bold mixology.

Part cocktail bar, part kitchen experiment, Bar Minou runs on curiosity and a willingness to play. Yailén "Yaya" Díaz and her partner Phil craft drinks that riff on classics (think margaritas spiked with Aperol and jalapeño, negronis dressed with rhubarb from the neighbour's garden) alongside small plates that take days to prep before hitting the grill. The menu shifts with the mood, but the through-line is Mediterranean flavours refracted through Cuban and Nova Scotian memories. It's less about polish than personality, and that's exactly why it works.

A maximalist dive bar where country kitsch meets Montreal nightlife with full commitment. Opened by Anthoni Jodoin (the mind behind Taverne Cobra and Snowbird Tiki Bar), the Petite-Patrie space doubles down on Americana: neon beer signs, a cowboy hat disco ball, vintage thrift-store finds, and a menu that includes actual spaghetti. The soundtrack is all country, all the time, and weekly line dancing lessons seal the deal. It doesn't matter if you've never set foot on a ranch. Spaghetti Western is less about authenticity and more about atmosphere, and right now, Montreal is eating it up.

A neighbourhood favourite in Pointe-Saint-Charles that combines historic character with low-key charm. Named for the family who once owned the surrounding farmland, Knox captures a working-class aesthetic with exposed brick, herringbone floors, and a climbing plant wall that stretches to the ceiling. The menu focuses on elevated comfort food with nods to the chef's Mexican heritage, including the beloved Knox Burger with its Coca-Cola mayo. Inventive cocktails with homemade mixers and a "secret" oyster happy hour make this one of the most genuinely underrated spots in the city.

Born from the minds behind Pizza Bouquet, Star Bar is a hybrid pizzeria and bar that keeps nailing Bouquet's Montreal take on New York-style pizza. The space has playful kitsch and warm familiarity: stained-glass lanterns, vintage photos, and yes, a mounted shark. Since opening, it's become a hub for LGBTQI2S+ folks and allies, fostering a creative, inclusive community vibe. Go here for a crisp slice, a cold drink, and laid-back energy.

A former dépanneur transformed into an intimate 25-seat bar next to Hélicoptère in Hochelaga. Chic yet relaxed, Copilote works as a spot to extend an evening into the night or start things off with a pre-dinner drink. The cocktail menu by Benjamin Gauthier highlights seasonal ingredients and Quebec spirits, while shareable finger foods like oysters, tartare, and chicken liver mousse come from a team with serious kitchen credentials. It closes earlier than your average local bar, but the quality here mirrors the restaurant next door.

After nearly three decades without one, Montreal has a true German beer hall again. This brainchild of Anthoni Jodoin (the designer behind Snowbird Tiki Bar, Spaghetti Western, and Taverne Cobra) transforms 3,500 square feet of Plaza St-Hubert into a cinematic reimagining of Bavarian tradition: long communal tables beneath massive chandeliers, exposed beams, and steins colliding between brick walls. Sixteen taps pour a mix of local brews and imports like Erdinger and Starnberger, all served in hefty glassware. The menu keeps to the essentials with fresh-baked pretzels and a build-your-own sausage setup fit for marathon sessions of drinking and debate.