Le Bar Des Ormeaux is a dive with the personality of an aging boxer—scarred, smoky, and still kicking. You’ll find it hidden in Tétreaultville, where life slows to the clink of cheap beer bottles and the hum of a tired jukebox churning out hits that haven’t been popular since the turn of the century. Inside, it’s all dented metal, gritty floors, and walls that wear their chips and scratches like badges of honour. Regulars perch like fixtures, their glances sizing up newcomers. Your server will be quick with a joke and a knowing grin—an unpolished gem in this time-warped tavern.

Sel et Poivre is a karaoke dive in the heart of Masson that’s clung to its ‘40th anniversary’ banner for nearly a decade—an inside joke to its regulars. Here, local legends like a pool shark whose trophies cover the walls like holy relics reign. The crowd? A mix of grizzled locals and nostalgic millennials, sharing rounds of cheap Molson and wisdom on life, women, and billiards. With dust-heavy air, barely-functioning air-con, and a jukebox full of ‘80s rock, Sel et Poivre thrives as a chaotic, loveable mess.

Bar Rocky is what happens when a neighbourhood dive decides it doesn’t need frills or finesse—just cheap beer, a touch of testosterone, and maybe a hint of Halloween decor that’s out all year. Situated between Beaudry and Papineau, it’s a kind of sanctuary for rough edges and local eccentrics, a place where regulars nurse cheap pints of 50 while watching reruns of Gilles Proulx in all his dated glory. The staff knows exactly when you need another round, and patrons range from retired graphic artists to pool hall philosophers who think every angle in life is geometry.

La Remise is what happens when the Plateau’s glossy facade fades away, revealing the kind of raw, untouched grit only a dive bar can pull off. Hidden somewhere in the maze around Laurier, it’s the place you stumble upon by smell alone—a mix of stale beer, smoke, and long-past renovations. Inside, you’ll find aging regulars who’ll rant about permit-free escapades and throw questionable punchlines without batting an eye. The jukebox is a time capsule of Quebec rock, and the decor, if you squint through the dim lights, is a surreal collage of local legends laminated for posterity.

The Bruno Sport Bar is a time capsule and testament to Montreal’s enduring tavern culture—a place where history, kitsch, and camaraderie come together in an unabashedly authentic way. Sitting unassumingly in Rosemont, this spot draws a loyal crowd who appreciate the sticky tables, vintage beer posters, and classic décor that hark back to an era long before craft cocktails and avocado toast.
 
From the paper-thin hot dogs to jumbo grilled cheeses, the menu is pure, no-frills tavern fare, reasonably priced to encourage a second round (or third). The beer selection may lack the trendy varieties, but it offers a comforting familiarity: pitchers of Sleeman or promotional non-alcoholic brews served without irony. This is a bar that feels wonderfully stuck in 1978.
 
It’s also a place where the community shines: Regulars, mostly silver-haired, gather to swap stories and enjoy simple pleasures, from free popcorn to games on the big screen. The walls are adorned with everything from sports memorabilia to a nearly ancient air conditioning unit doubling as a Loto-Québec promo board. Each visit offers a chance to spot another relic from the past, such as an oversized microwave perpetually set to nine seconds or a jumble of colourful trinkets that defy logic but add character.

Bienvenu Bar Salon, or BBS to the regulars, is Ahuntsic’s unpolished gem—a tavern that hasn’t let the polished Promenade Fleury strip soften its edge. The decor? Dark-tinted windows that make the place look closed, cracked tiles in the bathroom, and a DJ booth with water damage that no one’s in a hurry to fix. The menu is an ode to simplicity: Labatt 50 pitchers, pop-corn refills, and a stack of takeout menus from local legends like Au Coq. With a loyal clientele of locals who’ve been greeted by name for years, BBS is a pure dive in the best, nostalgic way.

Brasserie Beaubien isn’t here to impress; it’s here to endure. Tucked away in Petite Italie since 1924, this place is a true dive, with a bar back who manages the regulars and newcomers alike with a grin and a quick Quebecois wit. Sure, the bathrooms are hilariously bad, and the decor is pure dated charm, but you don’t come here for polish. Somehow, its held its ground as a ragtag DIY venue, despite sound systems that looked like they’d last been updated when VHS was king. Drinks are cheap, the mood is laid back, and Beaubien remains what it’s always been: An unpretentious gem for the neighbourhood.

MR250 Bar Lounge might be a dive in spirit, but it’s got an unmistakable edge and charm that keeps the crowds coming back for more. This cash-only spot combines biker decor with laid-back vibes, making it the kind of place where everyone, from neighbourhood regulars to weekend partiers, can feel right at home. The bar has a bit of everything: Muskoka chairs on the front terrace for people-watching, fair-priced drinks, and an attached tattoo parlour for those spontaneous late-night decisions.

Les Verres Stérilisés is a relic from a time when “clean glassware” was enough to draw a crowd—a promise proudly advertised in neon above the door. There’s a certain charm here, with its gleaming steins, unpretentious air, and a refreshingly low level of grime compared to other dives. Every pint on tap is served in a glass so clean you’d think they’re still showing off that old glass washer, and classic tallboys of Laurentide and Labatt 50 go for the kind of price that lets you linger. With a pool table, a few VLTs, and a Canadiens game lighting up the wall, this bar knows exactly who it is and who it’s for—and it doesn’t need to change a thing.

If you’re looking for a grim dive with barely a pulse, this place has it in spades. The draw? Fifteen poker machines and the grey haze of Welfare Check Day. There are three bars, but only one actually serves drinks, with the other two practically abandoned. The crowd? Mostly regulars glued to their screens, feeding in cash faster than you can say “depressing.” A couple of locals might approach for a chat, stories tinged with a heaviness that lingers long after you’ve left. Cash only and cheap beer reign supreme here.

Barfly is a Plateau institution where cheap beer, live music, and sheer character are on tap every night of the week. This place is pure, unfiltered Montreal, where locals squeeze into the tight space, beers slosh from glass to floor, and a dog might be sharing a pint in the corner. No pretension, no fuss—just raw, homegrown energy and live shows spanning blues to bluegrass. Don’t be surprised if the conversation you start turns into impromptu comedy for the whole bar. It’s the kind of dive that wears its Habs memorabilia like a badge and lets you feel instantly at home, whether you’re there for the music or just the cheap Moosehead.

Bifteck is the people’s bar of St-Laurent, a no-frills dive that stands in delightful contrast to the pricey clubs surrounding it. This two-storey institution pulls in crowds with cheap pitchers, free popcorn salty enough to turn your mouth to sandpaper, and bartenders who keep the vibe just friendly enough. It’s not the place to bring a date, but it’s everyone’s top-five spot to settle into at the end of a night, where friends blend with strangers over a pitcher of Boréale and rounds of pool upstairs.

Bifteck’s charm lies in its unpretentious mix of students, locals, and regularswho’re likely down for a round of pool and a story or two. Legends say it’s where VICE’s founders first met, and that checks out—Bifteck is for the conversationalists, not the scenesters. So grab a pitcher, snag a seat by the front windows, and enjoy a bar where pretension doesn’t stand a chance.

This Chinatown dive, tucked away above Saint-Laurent Boulevard, is the kind of place where cheap drinks and gritty charm collide in equal measure. Cash-only and unapologetically unrefined, it offers supremely cheap bottles and mixed drinks at prices that haven’t felt inflation’s bite. Most patrons are glued to the lineup of VLT machines, giving the rest of the room a hushed vibe, perfect for low-key conversation and a few rounds with friends. The bar’s staff is a study in contrasts—a friendly regular will be all smiles, while another tougher one keeps things running with a no-nonsense edge. No kitchen, no frills, and a bathroom that’s seen better days, but if you’re looking to skip the refined spots nearby, this is as real as it gets.

Brasserie Capri has the kind of timeworn charm only a classic, blue-collar Montreal bar can pull off. It keeps the same unpretentious feel that once caught the eye of Anthony Bourdain: The food is straightforward, featuring beloved Quebecois staples like pig knuckle with sauerkraut, smoked meat spaghetti, and a club sandwich with a “secret” family recipe. Hockey reigns supreme here, with screens flashing Habs games and draft beers flowing for loyal fans. Service is warm and often starts with a free basket of popcorn, though the ambiance—a mix of video poker machines, faint stale beer, and dampness—requires a bit of nostalgia.

Piranha Bar is a dive with a dual personality: it’s a laid-back downtown hangout by day and a gritty, chaotic live music venue by night. Established in 2007, it’s evolved from a small basement dive into a two-level powerhouse of Montreal’s music scene, complete with arcade games, a pool table, and a line of slot machines. There’s even a punching bag machine for the rowdier regulars.

The vibe here leans rock and metal, with local acts on the upstairs stage and an unapologetically raw, anything-goes crowd. The bar’s famous for its fish tank, though opinions are mixed. All told, this bar might not be for the faint of heart, but if you’re after cheap drinks, grungy charm, and a slice of downtown Montreal’s untamed spirit, this place has it all. Just don’t come expecting a food menu or much of a beer selection beyond the basics.

Andrew’s is the kind of dive bar where cheap drinks and an unfiltered vibe rule the roost, just a block off the main action on Sainte-Catherine downtown. It’s not winning any awards for decor, but with shots of liquor and cheap mixed drinks, it’s a go-to for budget-conscious regulars, students, and anyone who wants a drink without fuss.

The crowd is a mix, from hipsters to locals to students on a budget, and the staff has been called everything from refreshingly direct to downright ornery. But for those who know what they’re getting into, Andrew’s is a low-key spot to start or end a night, and maybe even leave with a story or two about the city’s unpolished side.

TRH-Bar, or “Trash Bar,” is a skate haven and chaotic party zone where Montreal’s grittiest nightlife unfolds. Channelling a secret lair vibe straight out of a ‘90s action flick, this bar isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s got an actual skate bowl inside, metal toilets behind the bar, and walls covered in graffiti. The crowd’s here to watch skaters tear it up in the bowl, knock back jugs of PBR, and soak in the punk-meets-hip-hop chaos across two floors.

While it has all the elements of a wild night out, TRH-Bar’s not without its share of rough edges. On the upside, the bartenders and sound crew are known for being friendly, and the energy here is unlike anything else. Just bring your board—or your best moves—and prepare for an unpredictable night.

Bar Aigle Noir is a Village dive that promises a mix of edgy charm, eclectic entertainment, and a vibe that’s anything but sanitized. It’s the kind of bar where you might find Lord of the Rings projected next to, well, something much racier—think gay porn and classic Disney sharing the screens. The decor is bold, with shirtless bartenders and walls lined with cheeky artwork, creating a no-filter atmosphere for the regulars and visitors alike.

Known for its diverse patrons, the bar can feel a bit unpredictable—some love the unabashedly queer vibe and casual (sometimes chaotic) service, while others find the crowd a bit polarized. For those who want a quieter spot, there are back and upstairs bars with more privacy. Drinks are decently priced if you stick to basics, though cocktails can vary depending on the bartender. Aigle Noir may be a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place, but it’s undeniably an institution of the Village, delivering a memorable, unapologetic Montreal experience.

Brasserie Cherrier is the definition of a neighbourhood classic—warm, unpretentious, and very Montreal. Tucked away on the Plateau since the 1930s, it’s a local institution where regulars gather to watch the Habs, sip a cold one, and settle in for a game or two. The crowd leans older and predominantly francophone, adding to the no-frills, old-school vibe that’s all about good company and easy conversation. Beer selection may be limited to a handful of Canadian staples and the odd import, but nobody here seems to mind. With its welcoming, familiar energy, Brasserie Cherrier is where you go to feel like you’re part of the city, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.

Pub Epoxy near the Saint-Henri metro is unapologetically rugged—a dive bar wrapped in Habs memorabilia and filled with regulars who know what they’re getting. Post-renovation, it boasts more space, a pool room, and a well-worn vibe that feels like a time capsule for anyone missing the old Brasserie St. Jacques days. Specials pull in the crowds, and the bar’s approach to decor—complete with a classic condom machine in the bathroom—adds to the no-frills, almost relic-like charm.

Beyond the rough edges, Epoxy is also a neighbourhood favourite with a surprisingly warm side. With about 15 beers on tap and plenty more in bottles, there’s no shortage of choice for drinkers who don’t need fancy. The bar even has a jukebox for those moments when you want to set the soundtrack.

Monkee's is classic dive bar glory tucked away in Ville-Émard and proudly defiant of any hipster takeover. From the moment you step in and catch a dry, sarcastic welcome from the barmaid, you know you’re in for a night that feels like stepping back into the ‘90s and early 2000s. This is a bar where Dropkick Murphys can share a playlist with Eric Lapointe, and a glass of red wine is served with a wink and a healthy dose of irony. It’s full of character and regulars, with leather jackets, worn pool tables, and all the gritty charm of a true neighbourhood haunt.

Despite its dive status, Monkees isn’t the sticky-floor kind of joint; recent renovations have kept it clean enough without sacrificing its worn-in, unpolished vibe. There’s a surprisingly decent espresso machine, a row of lotto machines, and pool tables, plus big screens for sports fans. And for those who want a casual spot with affordable drinks, this is the perfect alternative to pricier downtown spots—complete with boisterous conversations, sexy staff, and that unfiltered, anything-goes energy that makes every visit memorable.

Goldie’s Bar is a classic dive where regulars and newcomers alike come to forget their troubles, get lost in cheap beer, and soak in the unique local flavour. Known for its unpredictable history, Goldie’s attracts a loyal crowd despite (or perhaps because of) its gritty edge. The drinks are famously affordable, and colourful touches—like a lingerie vending machine—add to its distinct charm. Friendly bartenders and pool sharks make the place feel like home, especially for anyone seeking comfort in a no-frills spot with character.

This is a warm, unpretentious spot where Snowdon locals and newcomers mingle over cheap drinks, live music, and a laid-back vibe. The space feels like stepping into a friend’s living room, with art-filled walls showcasing pieces painted by the bartender and a cast of regulars who seem straight out of a TV show. The welcoming manager often greets guests like family, and her homemade salsa is a crowd-pleaser. Expect open mics, karaoke, and even the manager’s son on guitar—a true community gem with plenty of character and good vibes.

Bistro Jono Bar is as no-frills as it gets—a classic dive sports bar that sticks to the basics. Cheap pitchers are the main attraction, with a rotating microbrew selection that includes a tasty hemp beer. Hockey fans will find TVs in every direction, and it’s one of the few spots where cheering for the Leafs doesn’t get you thrown out. The vibe is friendly and laid-back; regulars flock here to shoot darts, play pool, and grab cans of Pringles or whatever novelty prizes are in the robo-claw vending machine. Expect good laughs, cheap drinks, and music wars on the jukebox.

La Brasserie des Patriotes is a neighbourhood dive in Hochelaga with a refreshingly unpretentious vibe. This spot is perfect for groups, solo drinkers, or those simply seeking good company. The food is classic and affordable—generous nachos and comforting dishes like spaghetti or Italian sausages are served up with friendly service from bartenders who make regulars and newcomers feel right at home. With great beers on tap, good music, and a vibrant, local crowd, Brasserie des Patriotes is a slice of Montreal charm you don’t want to miss.

Bar L’Hémisphère Gauche, tucked away in Montreal’s Plateau neighbourhood, is a legendary dive that has hosted Montreal’s music lovers for over two decades. This unassuming venue draws a diverse crowd for everything from punk and metal gigs to open mic nights and comedy. With dim lighting, graffiti-clad walls, and cheap drinks, it’s the ideal spot to catch a local band, dive into an open jam session, or belt out karaoke after midnight.

The staff bring a laid-back, welcoming vibe, happily catering to newcomers and regulars alike. If you’re after a night of unfiltered Montreal nightlife, L’Hémisphère Gauche is it—equal parts gritty, inclusive, and unforgettable.

Bar de la Salle is a classic neighbourhood dive with over 20 years under its belt, offering the perfect mix of cheap beer, friendly staff, and a laid-back vibe. Known by the neighbourhood for its pool table, the bar is a haven for regulars and first-timers alike. You’ll find cheap beers, plenty of space, and a lively jukebox filled with rock favourites to set the tone. While the music can get loud, the charm of Bar de la Salle lies in its no-frills atmosphere and a warm welcome that feels like coming home.