Classic cocktail culture, top-of-the-line mixology, curated wines, and honest spots to just grab a beer and enjoy time passing: The best bars in Montreal all represent a fine balance of community, creativity, and captivating qualities.
The best bars in Montreal are where you don’t want miss out on experiencing at least one night out with. Many of the names you’ll find here are where you’ll find the best-trained bartenders, the biggest collections of spirits and taps both local and international, and well-deserved followings earned through years of events, pop-ups, and collaborations. In short, you’re bound to have a good time sitting back and relaxing (or dancing) at any one of these spots. The best bars in Montreal are carrying the torch well for a city that was once known as the Paris of North America—if anything, they’re keeping that torch burning bright.
Restarted by chefs Pablo Rojas and Hakim Rahal of Provisions Bar à Vin and Andrew Whibley of the Cloakroom cocktail bar, Bar Dominion's less of a reinvention of the old Dominion Square Tavern and more of a revisit to its formula, drawing inspiration from both its last form and the one from when it first opened in 1927 as a hotel restaurant. The menu's now toned down from the ploughman's lunches and Sunday roasts of yore and now focused on more drinks and snackable food, with Rojas and Rahal opting for a leaner but refined offering of seafood and fish, like a full raw bar brimming with oysters, crab, caviar and lobster. As for drinks, in addition to wine there are 25 cocktails in all on a menu broken down into martinis, negronis (boulevardiers, white negronis, and so forth), a whiskey-forward cocktail section, a selection of 75s and spritzes, and a section for highballs and fizzes.
Taverne Atlantic, debuting in Montreal’s Mile Ex in late 2019, swiftly became a hotspot at the corner of Avenue du Parc and Rue Beaubien. It’s where restaurateurs Alexandre Baldwin, Alexandre Wolosianski, and Éric Dupuis have crafted a stylish Art Deco haven featuring a long, elegant bar, central seating, and a rooftop terrace. The drink menu, curated by Frédérique Fortin and Alexandre Taillon, includes creative cocktails and a robust selection of beers and wines. Chez Eddy Snack Bar complements the drinks with its menu of pizzas, hot dogs, and poutines, blending American comfort food with gourmet touches.
Snowbird Tiki Bar offers a vibrant tiki escape that can’t be found elsewhere in Montreal. Its bamboo entrance transports you to an island-themed paradise, complete with Hawaiian-shirted bartenders, fish decorations, and retro music. The bar's playful ambiance is enhanced by unique seating options, including swings and cozy booths. Drinks like the Pink Flamingo and Cobra’s Fang, all rated by alcohol content, are as good to look at as they are to drink. Shareable drinks like the Garden Party punch, served in a rock bowl with floral garnishes, epitomizes the tropical vibe. Snowbird’s décor and inventive beverages make it a worthwhile indulgence, offering a perfect retreat—especially when winter’s underway.
Old Montreal’s El Pequeño Bar offers an escape to Old Havana’s glamour. This intimate 150 square-foot bar, transformed from a tiny spot for libations by the Coldroom team, accommodates just 11 guests (plus more via a terrasse in the summer). Step inside to find Cuban-inspired décor, featuring a chandelier, big windows, and exposed brick walls. The expertly curated drink menu includes classics like Mojitos, Daiquiris, and Cuba Libres, alongside the refreshing Runs in the Family cocktail among others. Complementing the drinks is the delicious Cubano sandwich. Despite its size, El Pequeño draws a diverse crowd, making it a must-visit for an intimate yet exclusive experience.
The Coldroom, an intimate speakeasy-style bar in Old Montreal, offers a refined yet clandestine experience. Enter through an unmarked black door at the corner of Saint-Amable and Saint-Vincent streets, ringing the bell for admission. Inside, staff present a seasonal cocktail menu with inventive twists on classics and wholly new creations with emphasis on experience and flavour. The stylish bar features cozy nooks and a minimalist décor with exposed brick and steel beams. Known for attracting celebrities and cocktail enthusiasts alike, The Coldroom ensures an exclusive night out with expertly crafted drinks and top-notch service.
Open since August 2023, Bar Bello blends tradition and the Italian charm of Montreal’s Little Italy. Perfect for aperitifs or digestifs, this spot created by Kevin Demers and Benny Bello is a 65-seat bar (with space for 60 more outside) where European elegance is exuded through black-and-white checkerboard floors, navy-blue velvet banquettes, and a bar stocked with Italian liqueurs. Designed by La Chambre Design Co., the space invites you to enjoy classic and innovative Italian cocktails crafted by mixologist Matt Baker. Complemented by high-quality antipasti and nibbles—plus a negroni vending machine that shouldn’t be skipped—Bar Bello offers an exceptional setting to unwind and indulge in true Italian drinking culture.
Rouge Gorge’s been a cherished wine bar in the Plateau since 2015 because it offers a cozy haven for drinks and bites. Named after a Parisian tavern from the film Children of Paradise, its decor by Zébulon Perron blends industrialism with intimacy, while its wine selection of French bottles alongside global varieties complements seasonal bites including fresh oysters, pasta, and grilled seafood. Whether dining on its terrasse in the summer or drinking in their intimate bar downstairs, Rouge Gorge is where patrons savor good booze and food, making it an essential destination for bar enthusiasts.
Le Mal Nécessaire, now located on Saint-Alexandre Street following opening in 2014 in a basement location in Montreal's Chinatown, has redefined the city’s bar scene. This tropical, tiki-inspired bar, founded by David Schmidt, Alex San Gergorio, and Evan Cowie, blends chic minimalism with vibrant charm. Designed by Juliane Camirand, it boasts plush velvet banquettes, warm hues, and subdued lighting, accommodating up to 160 guests. The bar excels in eco-friendly practices, offering meticulously crafted cocktails using fresh, homemade ingredients. Signature drinks, served in fruits, and DJ-curated music in a welcoming atmosphere promises a memorable night of high-quality libations and good vibes.
Bar George, a blend of historic charm and modern elegance, opened in May 2017 in downtown Montreal. Located in the former manor of tycoon Sir George Stephen, this bar and restaurant offers a sophisticated experience with its stunning wood paneling, marble-topped bar, and rich décor. By day, it has a relaxed hotel bar atmosphere, transforming into a lively party spot on weekends. The cocktail menu, crafted with meticulous attention, complements a British-inspired menu with local influences, overseen by Executive Chef Anthony Walsh and chef Kevin Ramasawmy.
Dimly humming below Little Burgundy’s HENI restaurant, Badin is a 24-seat cocktail-forward listening lounge that opened in April 2024. Accessed through HENI's front doors, this intimate space designed by Juliane Camirand combines low lighting, velour banquettes, and a central DJ stage. It creates a cozy, cocooned setting reminiscent of an audiophile’s living room. Led by Soufian Mamlouk and cocktail program director Émile Archambault, Badin offers innovative, seasonally changing cocktails alongside curated multi-genre vinyl music. Emphasizing intimacy and high-quality sound, Badin’s blend of ambiance, artisanal drinks, and meticulous service promises a unique, memorable experience in the city’s nightlife scene.
Vinvinvin, a vibrant wine bar in La Petite-Patrie, opened in 2019, offers a playful yet sophisticated experience. Located in the former Brutus space on Beaubien Street East, this Nordic-inspired bar features an eclectic design with colorful tones and a central bar. Helmed by Marina De Figueiredo, Antonin Laporte, and Nikolas Da Fonseca, vinvinvin focuses on central and northern European wines, categorized by palate with unique labels like "punk" and "émotion." Complemented by a selection of local beers and small, shareable plates, vinvinvin is a delightful spot for wine enthusiasts seeking a fresh spots for even fresher wines.
Tucked away off Parc Avenue in Mile Ex, Bar Cicchetti brings Venetian charm to Montreal with its focus on cicchetti—small, delightful Venetian snacks—and a curated selection of wines, including macerated vintages. Opened by Elyse Leclerc, Gabriel Lavallée, and Mathieu Delisle, the bar offers a cozy, low-lit atmosphere with a design by architects Julia Manasas and Maxime Lefebvre. Enjoy a vibrant terrace in warmer months and a menu of fresh, seasonal bites on the cheap. With a mix of organic and biodynamic wines, creative cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance, Bar Cicchetti is perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and snacks.
Dieu du Ciel!, a staple on Montreal's microbrewery scene since 1998, is celebrated for its extensive selection of in-house brewed beers. Located on Laurier Avenue in Mile-End, this iconic brewery offers up to two dozen craft beers at any given time, with over 200 unique recipes crafted over the years. Patrons can enjoy 4 oz tasting glasses to explore the variety by flights, or dive into pints and growlers. Reminiscent of English taverns with copper and wood touches, you can accompany your beer with simple, local-flavored dishes from their kitchen. With its perennial popularity, Dieu du Ciel! remains a top destination for beer enthusiasts.
Brasserie Harricana, a standout in Montreal's microbrewery scene since 2015, blends classy craft beer with an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. Located on Jean-Talon West, this chic spot offers over three dozen beers on tap, many brewed onsite, with options from visiting breweries. The airy, light-filled interior features retro touches and a spacious outdoor terrace. Co-founders Marie-Pier Veilleux and Cynthia Santamaria draw inspiration from the original 1975 Harricana in Amos, Quebec, creating a space where everyone feels at home. Complementing the diverse beer selection, the menu features comforting dishes, perfect for sharing and enjoying in a beautiful setting.
Messorem Bracitorium, translating to 'The Grim Reaper's Brewery,' has quickly become a top spot for craft beer enthusiasts since opening in 2019. Located along the Lachine Canal in Montreal's Sud-Ouest, it boasts a spacious canalside terrasse and a large taproom. Known for its creamy IPAs and crowd-pleasing lagers, Messorem offers an extensive range of in-house brewed beers, from low-alcohol thirst quenchers to robust Double IPAs and bourbon barrel-aged stouts. The brewery partners with Mitch Deli to provide delicious food pairings.
Opened in 2020, Verdun Beach quickly became a neighborhood favorite. Embracing the concept of a guinguette—a lively, casual bar with a focus on good food and drink—this spot promises a vibrant atmosphere where you can drink, eat, and dance. Founders Charles Garant, Marc Frandon, and Philippe Jacquelin transformed the former Balconville location into a space with vintage '70s charm. The wine list, curated by Frandon, features over 100 natural wines from 30 independent winemakers. Complemented by craft beers, house cocktails, and a fresh, seasonal menu that rotates dishes regularly, Verdun Beach offers an escape in the heart of Verdun.
Le 4e Mur offers a gamified bar experience that begins with signing up for their newsletter to discover its secret location. Accessible by pushing against its 'fourth' wall entrance, this Prohibition-era speakeasy is steeped in mystery and ambiance. Inside, you'll find burlesque shows and live jazz, with dapper bartenders and drawn curtains enhancing the allure. The founders, all national championship cocktail titlists and one the founder of L’Ecole du Bar de Montréal, ensure top-tier mixology. Ideal for a romantic date or a night out with friends, Le 4e Mur promises innovative cocktails in a uniquely immersive setting.
Wondering why there’s a red carpet in an alley? Fashioned as a speakeasy, Atwater Cocktail Club (ACC) offers a unique bar experience without requiring a password. Inside, dark walls, shiny 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 cocktails like the 40 Thieves impress, while the menu offers French brasserie staples from sister restaurant Foiegwa. No reservations are taken, so be prepared to wait on busy nights. With its striking design, intimate ambiance, and exceptional drinks, ACC is a hidden gem in Montreal.
Travel up a staircase illuminated with black lights, and you'll find yourself in the Milky Way's universe. This bar, with its jungle terrarium skylight and vaporwave accents, offers a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. As part of the Barroco Hospitality Group, Milky Way boasts a unique cocktail menu filled with ingredients like champagne reductions and toasted sesame oil. The drinks draw inspiration from tiki traditions and Latin American classics, all in a space that features hanging plants, a sleek marble bar, and neon-lit glass brick walls. Plus, you can enjoy delicious pizzas from Fugazzi downstairs, making this a top spot in Pointe-Saint-Charles.
Whether you want to sip on a cocktail or a beer between rounds of pool, Bon Délire is a solid place to be. As its name suggests, this vibrant and playful bar offers a lively atmosphere perfect for an eclectic evening. Past its exterior that resembles a pawn shop, its décor—reminiscent of the late '90s—creates a festive and comforting vibe. Offering a laid-back space where locals can relax and have a good time, the drink menu here entices with boilermakers, a variety of alcoholic slushies like frozé, and expertly crafted cocktails by Thomas Yeo and Kate Boushel. Drinking on an empty stomach is never a good idea, so Bon Délire serves a delicious deli-style menu. Whether you’re playing a game of pool on the leopard-print table, enjoying a quiet drink at the bar after work, or partying until the early morning hours, Bon Délire is there for anyone looking for a good drink and time.
Bisou Bisou is a charming cocktail bar located in the heart of Old Montreal, ideal for an apéritif or a night out. Opened in 2023, this stylish Mediterranean-inspired spot is brought to you by Kevin Demers (Coldroom and El Pequeño), Gregory Buda (Dead Rabbit and Beagle in New York), and Robert Weeks (Hawksmoor in London and Coldroom). The bar features a cozy, intimate setting with grey tones and burnt orange accents, comfortably seating around 60 people. The cocktail menu emphasizes apéritif-style drinks, with a mix of alcoholic, low-alcohol, and non-alcoholic options. Check out the range of fortified wines, Mediterranean-inspired preserves, and a charcuterie and cheese platter to complement your drinks.
Originally a bespoke tailor shop, Cloakroom expanded in 2015 to include a hidden speakeasy accessible through its coat check. This 25-seater bar in Montreal's Golden Square Mile quickly gained acclaim for its exceptional cocktails, leading to a second location in Brisbane. The ambiance is swanky, with drinks crafted to order and crystal-clear ice that adds a touch of elegance. Cloakroom eschews a traditional menu, instead offering a bespoke cocktail experience. Guests discuss their preferences with the expert bartenders, who then create tailored drinks, often inspired by pre-Prohibition classics like the Martinez or Old Fashioned. Founded by Andrew Whibley, Cloakroom blends the charm of a clandestine bar with top-notch mixology.
Bar Henrietta’s a refined Portuguese-style bar that recalls community taverns of the 1960s and ‘70s. Named for owner Alexandre Baldwin's Portuguese heritage, Henrietta’s inviting vintage tavern swagger features an open-concept upper floor and a kitschy lower level. A lot of people roll through for the drink menu of classic cocktails and Quebec beers, all bets accompanied by Portuguese-inspired small plates like Manchego popcorn and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Originally a local dive for Saint-Henri residents, Bar de Courcelle was renovated in 2013 while retaining much of its original charm. With a history spanning over 50 years, this spot offers a nostalgic period aesthetic reminiscent of '60s and '70s destinations, complete with vintage textures and materials. Patrons here enjoy tall bottles of beer, classic cocktails, and comfort food in a relaxed setting. The menu includes draft beers, bottled selections, curated wines, and cocktails. It’s a laid-back hangout during the day and a lively venue at night, featuring DJs, live bands, and open mics. All in all, it’s a beloved neighborhood institution where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy its conviviality.
Every borough has its share of pubs, but Grumpy's in downtown Montreal offers a unique, no-frills experience that stands out. Enjoy fresh kegs, affordable whiskey shots, and live music here alongside folk jams on Thursdays, jazz on Wednesdays, and diverse acts on weekends. Located in a heritage building on Bishop Street, Grumpy's is an oasis in the heart of downtown: It’s cozy and inviting, perfect for solo drinks, hanging out with friends, or meeting new people. The bar offers a solid selection of local beers and a variety of whiskies and bourbons. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Grumpy's is the place to enjoy a genuine, unpretentious bar experience.
Nestled in a semi-basement on Park Avenue, Double's Late Night embodies a contemporary dive bar ethos on the Mile End scene. It’s a great place to unwind over drinks, games, and bites. The decor, with traditional dive bar elements infused with modern twists, features a long bar, pool table, and TVs broadcasting sports. Chef Danny Smiles’ simple menu highlights signature burgers, onion rings, fish and chips, and a revolving set of other delicious options (oftentimes Italian) when his mood strikes.
Gokudo, a sophisticated Japanese cocktail bar, offers an immersive experience in downtown Montreal. Created by the dynamic team behind Escondite and Biiru, Gokudo combines traditional Japanese elements with a sleek, modern twist. Hidden behind a small restaurant, Ryōshi, the bar is a revelation: Entering through a black curtain, guests find a chic, dimly-lit space with forest green leather benches and a striking tiger mural. The cocktail menu, inspired by Japanese mixologists, features minimalist yet exquisite drinks. Gokudo's relaxed ambiance and authentic decor make it a standout addition to Montreal's nightlife.
Benelux brewery, the first bar to open in Verdun post-prohibition, revitalizes the main strip with its artisanal brews. Offering a rotating selection from bitters and stouts to Dunkelweizens and Hefeweizens, it caters to all tastes. Established more than 15 years ago on Sherbrooke Street West, Benelux now boasts three Montreal locations in total. The original spot, with its industrial feel and large windows, provides a sunny terrace in summer and cozy evenings perfect for lingering. Located near Quartier des Spectacles, it's ideal for a pre-show beer.
La Distillerie has been a beloved institution in Montreal since its inception in May 2005, founded by David Poulin and Philippe Haman. Renowned for its towering mason jar cocktails, the bar offers a dynamic selection of drinks categorized as Powerful, Refreshing, Fruity, and Classic, with a menu that refreshes bi-annually. The original location, La Distillerie du Quartier des Spectacles (D1), paved the way for two more popular spots, on the Plateau Est (D2) and Promenade Masson that have since closed—but the fire’s being kept alive at the (sole remaining) OG location. Known for its unpretentious, pub-like ambiance and quality cocktails, La Distillerie is a community-centric establishment.
Réservoir, a distinguished brewpub nestled on Rue Duluth, has earned acclaim for its steadfast reliability and charm. Known for its house-brewed beers enjoyed atop a picturesque rooftop terrace, it pairs a stellar kitchen with a selection of about a dozen finely crafted beers at any time. Cozy and casual, the synergy between brewmasters and chefs at Réservoir creates a winning combination. While their entire selection is worth exploring, the cherry beer holds a special place in the hearts of many patrons. A 2017 renovation gave Réservoir a sleek, modern look that’s stayed with it to this day with a longer bar, 40 indoor seats, and a 30-seat terrace.
Established in 2008 in Little Burgundy, the Burgundy Lion’s been a staple in the area ever since. An ode to traditional British pubs, it’s a clean, inviting space adorned with football scarves and classic pub elements. With over 500 whiskies and a curated beer selection, the Burgundy Lion crafts a lot of classic English dishes for the menu like fish and chips and shepherd's pie, available daily from morning until late night. It's a go-to spot for any occasion, from relaxed drinking in the late morning to afternoon to wilder times at night.
Established in 2014, Bishop and Bagg offers a laid-back pub ambiance and a menu of classic eats like bangers and mash and burgers in the Mile End. An unpretentious spot from the Burgundy Lion team featuring wood accents and dark colors, you’ll find an impressive collection of gins and skilled bartenders crafting cocktails from them. Expect to eat well and drink well while you’re here—just don’t be surprised if it’s busy during brunch hours, or during lunch when swathes of video game designers from the nearby Ubisoft office come in. Those times aside, you can easily get a good bite late at night here.
Brouhaha, a microbrewery and pub with a strong tavern ambiance, is a beer enthusiast's haven. With house brews on tap and a rotating selection from visiting breweries, it offers everything from light and refreshing to rich and robust ales. The menu is equally impressive, featuring the famed "poutiflette," a decadent twist on poutine that’s perfect after a few rounds. This gem has long been a gathering spot for Montrealers to watch hockey or enjoy a local brew. With Belgian-inspired house beers, 24 craft beers on tap, and over 60 privately imported options, Brouhaha is a true beer temple.
Le Majestique’s a lively bar first established in 2014, and it’s been boasting a dynamic atmosphere and top-notch cuisine ever since. Decorated by Thomas Csano with a blend of kitsch and curios, Majestique's ambiance invites patrons to indulge in delectable small plates highlighting seafood and seasonal vegetables. Signature dishes like the 12-inch Gaspor pork hot dog are crowd-pleasers and easy date night winners, as is the stellar oyster service. Beyond that, the bar's extensive drink options feature natural wines, microbrews, and classic cocktails, all up for grabs until the late hours.
Vices & Versa in Montreal’s Little Italy stands as a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts. Boasting Quebec Microbrew draft lines and an extensive selection of rare bottles, this taphouse is a dream for beer aficionados. The chalkboard draft list is meticulously curated. The kitchen elevates the experience with gourmet poutines and daily specials, perfectly complementing the drinks. Part of Montreal’s first emerging microbrewery scene, Vices & Versa now offers 40 taps dedicated to independent Québécois brewers and exclusive collaborations. While their scotch, whiskey, and wine selections are notable, the true allure lies in sampling their diverse beer offerings.
Poincaré, more laboratory than bar, excels with craft beers and eco-friendly small plates. This hidden gem in Chinatown, opened in 2019 by Hugo Jacques, Jeremiah Bullied, and Francis B. Melançon, boasts a rooftop terrasse perfect for summer. The menu features innovative, lacto-fermented dishes and a rotating list of house-made beers. Poincaré also offers funky natural wines and inventive cocktails, like the Baijiu Caîpirinha. With its welcoming atmosphere, lush rooftop garden, and gravity-fed draft lines, Poincaré provides a unique, delightful experience for both locals and visitors, making it a must-visit spot in Montreal.
La Buvette Chez Simone, set on Parc Avenue since 2008, is a beloved spot for Montrealers seeking tasty, well-priced wine and simple snacks. Opened by Éric Bélanger, Michel Bergeron, Fabien Lacaille, Gabrielle Bélanger, and Simone Chevalot, it offers a laid-back yet attentive atmosphere. Designed by Zébulon Perron, the space features warm wood tones and an inviting ambiance. Known for its excellent wine selection, charcuterie, and cheese plates, La Buvette Chez Simone is perfect for casual evenings or celebratory gatherings. Its vibrant, convivial environment makes it a staple in the Mile-End neighborhood, ideal for relaxing or enjoying a night out with friends. Don't miss its little sister, Bar à Flot, a stone’s throw away.
Big in Japan Bar, a discreet speakeasy-style spot on the corner of Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Rachel, opened in 2011. Renowned for its elusive entrance, marked only by a nondescript door, this bar offers a sophisticated and intimate drinking experience. Inside, you'll find 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 have crafted a chic, welcoming atmosphere perfect for a cozy date or a night out with friends. Don't miss their unique bottle-hanging service for regulars.
Occasionally, we’ll mention our plans to visit this gem of a bar, and friends will respond with, “Where?” Though it’s tempting to share the city’s best-kept secrets, N Sur Mackay deserves to be handled with care. Tucked away in Montreal's Golden Square Mile, this unassuming cocktail haven stands out for its masterfully crafted drinks and amiable bartenders. Whether you crave a classic concoction or a unique creation, this bar delivers with finesse. The ambiance exudes a charming blend of intimacy and sophistication, making it an ideal spot for those in the know. Let’s keep it that way.
Ahuntsic's cocktail bar is a revelation for those who've confined their social scenes to more renowned districts. It's a place that challenges preconceived notions and invites you to explore Montreal's hidden gems. This bar, with its perfect balance of time-honored classics and cutting-edge concoctions, has single-handedly elevated its neighborhood’s status. Every sip is a testament to the skill and creativity of its bartenders, making it a must-visit for any cocktail aficionado. Established in 2013 by Jean-Maxime Giguère, 132 Vintage was born out of a vision to enrich Fleury Street with a cocktail haven. The bar’s initial offering was an array of vintage classics, categorized meticulously by style. Over time, the menu has evolved to include trendy selections, house-specialties, and a notable assortment of tiki drinks.
Perles & Paddock, a beautifully renovated garage in Griffintown, excels both as a restaurant and a bar. Known for its stunning design, it offers expertly crafted cocktails that pay tribute to fine spirits and a carefully curated selection of Québécois microbrews. Opened in 2017 by Maxime Perrault and Jessica Goulet, this chic space seats 80 guests and features stylish, white-dominated decor with lush greenery and natural light. The menu emphasizes shareable, seasonal dishes with a focus on vegetables, fish, and seafood. Everything is made in-house, ensuring high quality, and the refined atmosphere is deceptively perfect for any occasion, be it special occasions or raucous parties.
Wolf and Workman in Old Montreal is led by Sean Michael, chef Louis-Philippe Camerlain, and sommelier James Hung. This establishment combines great food and drinks in a charming space. Inspired by historical figures Wolfred Nelson and William Workman, the decor features stone walls, wood floors, and red leather seats, creating a slick ambiance. The menu includes British-inspired dishes like pan-seared rainbow trout and handmade lamb pie; the drink selection focuses on natural wines and modern cocktails using local spirits, ensuring a delightful experience for all. They also pull crisp pints on demand.
Housed in the former Alexandraplatz Bar, Wills Bar is the brainchild of cousins Ethan and Alex Wills, who transformed their long-held microbrewery dream into reality. This Mile Ex venue offers a sophisticated, welcoming spot featuring a large terrazzo bar and striking light fixtures. With a focus on easy-drinking, balanced beers and a thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail list, Wills Bar emphasizes quality and community. The industrial-chic decor, designed by Annika Krausz, retains the garage’s historical charm while adding European flair. As a family-run business, Wills Bar aims to become a neighborhood staple, drawing in locals and visitors alike.
Isle de Garde, an exceptional microbrewery in Petite-Patrie, was founded in 2014 by a talented team of restaurateurs, chefs, and brewmasters. This expansive brewpub features 24 taps showcasing a diverse range of beers from across Québec, complemented by their own in-house creations. The beer selection spans from bright saisons to dark stouts, offering something for every palate. The casual yet lively decor, designed by the owners, seats 180 guests and includes a stunning summer terrace. Co-owner Marc-Aurèle and his team craft delightful pub fare, from gourmet burgers to grilled octopus. While the food is excellent, the rotating beer selection is the true star, however.
Barraca Rhumerie, a venerable rum bar on avenue du Mont-Royal, boasts an impressive collection of over 200 rums from more than 20 countries. Renowned for its vibrant tropical ambiance, this establishment offers exotic cocktails, some of the best sangria in town, and a delectable tapas menu. Its kitchen crafts fresh, flavorful Caribbean dishes like ceviche, tartare, and tataki, catering to patrons seeking quality dining in a bar setting. With popular events like karaoke and quiz nights, Barraca ensures a lively, welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying their signature Mojitos and exploring the extensive rum selection.
L’infâme Tittle Tattle, a new wave cocktail bar, opened in July in the space formerly occupied by Bon Service in Old Montreal. Conceived by Loïc Fortin, known as Loyd Vonrose, and Ariel Goldstein, this bar blends Fortin’s mixology expertise with Goldstein’s creative flair. The bar's theme revolves around sins and gossip, featuring a unique glass urn where patrons can anonymously share secrets, inspiring weekly cocktail creations. The interior design is perfect for enjoying Fortin’s innovative cocktails. Using techniques like fermentation and clarification, each drink is a vibrant, nostalgic masterpiece.
Located in Montreal's Mile End, Le Plongeoir is a dive-inspired wine bar created by Antoine Denis, Frédéric Létourneau-Archambault, and John Hale, this 35-seat establishment blends a casual, back alley vibe with a focus on high-quality, affordable natural wines. The décor features lime-washed walls, dark green trim, and a classic billiards table illuminated by a stained-glass lamp, evoking a laid-back European feel.
Le Plongeoir aims to demystify wine drinking, offering a welcoming space where patrons can enjoy a glass or bottle without pretension. The wine list emphasizes French natural wines from lesser-known producers. Complementing the wine is a simple tapas menu featuring charcuterie, cheese, and cold plates. The concept is simple: great wine in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Once a simple espresso spot and preamble cocktail bar to Datcha, Montreal's Kabinet has transformed into a refined dining destination. Inspired by 1970s Parisian bistros, the space now features warm, chic decor designed by ADHOC Architectes, with vintage European touches like marble bistro tables, Thonet chairs, and a stunning crystal chandelier from Ukraine. The menu showcases continental classics with modern twists, such as chicken-liver mousse with sea buckthorn gel and 90-day aged beef tartare. Seasonal changes keep the offerings fresh, with a constant selection of local and imported caviar served in various elegant presentations. Complementing the cuisine, Kabinet maintains its acclaimed cocktail menu and a diverse, dynamic wine list, ensuring a sophisticated yet unpretentious dining experience.
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