In Montréal, the best bars are more than just places to grab a drink-they are spaces where stories unfold, creativity thrives, and unforgettable memories are made. Finding the perfect spot to toast often becomes an exciting journey in this vibrant city, known for its cultural and culinary diversity. Whether you're after a creative cocktail, a locally crafted beer, or a refined mocktail, Montréal is brimming with treasures waiting to be explored.
To help you navigate these countless options, we've crafted a detailed guide spotlighting the city's most remarkable establishments. Beer lovers will uncover local gems, while cocktail enthusiasts can dive into inventive and bold creations. If you're drawn to mystery, our curated list of speakeasies is a must-see. For those seeking alcohol-free nights, you'll find bars where mocktails reach a new level of sophistication. And if dancing is your thing, our picks for lively bars with dance floors will keep you moving into the night.
This guide aims to introduce you to places where every drink, every song, and every moment turns into an unforgettable experience. Whether you're in a festive mood or simply seeking a relaxing evening in an inspiring setting, Montréal undoubtedly has a bar to match your ideal night out.
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Get ready to raise your glass and explore the richness of Montréal's nightlife, one venue at a time.
Bars That Shine with Their Distinctions
512 Avenue Atwater, Montréal, H4C 2G5
The Atwater Cocktail Club strikes a perfect balance between authenticity and innovation, adding an unmistakable charm to Petite-Bourgogne. Every cocktail is a masterpiece, blending top-quality ingredients, homemade syrups, and carefully selected spirits. The bar also stands out for its exceptional mocktail offerings, where alcohol-free creations shine with boldness and finesse. Internationally recognized, this venue captivates with its refined and welcoming ambiance, where every detail-from the service to the atmosphere-enhances the experience. Whether reinventing classics or crafting original creations, the team brings a palpable passion to each drink. It's a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and those seeking new and exciting flavors.
R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, H2Y 1G8
Hidden away in the basement of a historic building in Old Montreal, The Coldroom is an address where mystery and refinement blend harmoniously. A discreet duck logo and doorbell announce the entrance to this emblematic venue. Ranked 12th among the best bars in Canada in 2024, and regularly mentioned in this list for several years, this speakeasy stands out for its intimate atmosphere and unique creations. Inside, exposed brick walls and wooden beams evoke a raw charm, while subdued lighting invites relaxation. The menu celebrates boldness and creativity, with signature cocktails like the "Cranachan", a balanced blend of scotch, raspberry and wild honey. Each glass can also be customized to your taste, offering a bespoke experience orchestrated by a passionate team. Much more than a bar, The Coldroom is a veritable mixology laboratory.
2175 Rue de la Montagne #100, Montréal, H3G 1Z8
The Cloakroom Bar, tucked behind Maison Cloakroom in downtown Montreal, is a landmark for lovers of exceptional cocktails. This 25-seat speakeasy captivates with its no-menu approach, where each drink is crafted to suit individual tastes. The cozy atmosphere, enhanced by elegant woodwork and soft lighting, sets the stage for intimate conversations and moments of relaxation. The bar stands out with its remarkable collection of rare spirits, including vintage bourbons and amari, reflecting a genuine passion for the history and complexity of flavors. Ranked the 3rd best bar in Canada and 39th in North America in 2024, the Cloakroom Bar epitomizes elegance and expertise. From personalized service to unique creations, every detail solidifies its reputation as a must-visit destination for mixology enthusiasts.
For more details and to discover our top recommendations, check out our full article on the winners of Canada's 100 Best 2024 in Montreal.
The Best Beer Bars in Montreal
273 Avenue Bernard O, Montréal, H2V 1T5
HELM Microbrewery, located in the Mile-End, transcends the simple concept of a pub to become a true tribute to local beer and regional products. With approximately 4,177 positive reviews on Google, this establishment continues to charm craft beer enthusiasts. Their unique, on-site brews pair perfectly with comforting dishes such as generous poutines or charcuterie platters. The decor, blending industrial style with warm accents, is centered around a large bar, creating a lively space for animated conversations. Between its selection of Quebec ciders, North American wines, and Thursday DJ nights, HELM offers an atmosphere where flavors, music, and discussions come together in an authentic and festive setting.
Brasseurs du Monde - Brasserie Quartier Latin
1567 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3K3
In Quartier Latin, Brasseurs du Monde celebrates the art of craft beer with an exclusive selection brewed at their Saint-Hyacinthe microbrewery. Their tea-infused beer series is a delightful surprise, blending delicate tea aromas with the complex flavors of artisanal brewing. On the menu, classics like duck poutine and the giant pretzel deliver big on flavor, making them perfect companions to a great pint. Recently renovated, the brewery offers a modern and bright setting that invites you to relax, whether for a weekend brunch or a leisurely evening hangout. Beer enthusiasts will love the complimentary samples, a great way to explore their extensive selection. With its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and generous dishes, Brasseurs du Monde stands out as a must-visit spot for enjoying craft beer and delicious food with friends.
Brasserie Harricana / Restaurant & Boutique
95 Rue Jean-Talon O, Montréal, H2R 2W8
For beer enthusiasts looking for new discoveries, Brasserie Harricana is a true gem. Located between Petite-Italie and Mile-Ex, this bright and elegant space stands out for its constant creativity: new beers are regularly added to their carefully curated menu. On the food side, the generous dishes are always a hit, featuring options like slow-cooked lamb shank or their signature house burger. The decor, designed by Alain Carle, pays homage to 1970s breweries with retro and modern touches that create a relaxing atmosphere. Whether it's after work or for a night out with friends, Harricana offers a stylish and flavorful escape. With over 2,600 positive Google reviews, this spot is more than just a bar: it's an institution where creativity, flavors, and a unique vibe come together seamlessly.
Taproom & Pub & Annexe BreWskey
Multiple locations
BreWskey is a must-visit brewing trilogy that brings creativity and passion to Old Montreal. At the Taproom, enjoy a relaxed vibe, 30 taps of house-brewed beer, and a terrace with stunning views of the Old Port. The Pub BreWskey, cozier and welcoming, offers a hearty menu featuring homemade poutine, fried pickles, fish and chips, and beer onion soup. During summer, the bustling terrace on Saint-Paul Street becomes the go-to spot for a pint or meal under the sun. At L'Annexe BreWskey, the charm lies in its prohibition-era atmosphere, with a mezzanine overlooking the brewing barrels and a "smokehouse" menu featuring tender ribs and flavorful sides. The adjacent boutique lets you take home unique beers and branded items.
Each location delivers a distinctive vibe but shares one mission: to celebrate local flavors with bold craft beers and thoughtful dishes. A visit to BreWskey guarantees a memorable evening filled with discovery, great food, and a warm atmosphere.
For more details and to discover our top recommendations, check out our full article on the best Microbreweries in Montreal.
Where to Find the Best Cocktails in Town
115 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2T 2N6
Ranked 46th among Canada's Best Bars, Bar Henrietta is a must-visit for cocktail lovers. Nestled in the vibrant Mile-End, this Portuguese-inspired tavern boasts a carefully crafted cocktail menu where every drink tells a story. The Belle Jaune, with its fresh hints of thyme and cucumber, and the Sylvestre, featuring tropical notes of pineapple and rum, showcase the bartenders' creativity and flair. The ambiance is just as refined, with whitewashed brick walls, dark wood accents, and golden chandeliers setting the stage for memorable evenings. Pair a perfectly mixed cocktail with small plates like mahi-mahi ceviche, manchego popcorn, or the Portuguese sandwich for an elevated dining experience. Open until 3 a.m., Henrietta is the perfect spot for a lively night out or a cozy date over expertly crafted drinks. For those seeking cocktails that stand out, this Laurier West gem truly earns its place among Canada's finest.
401a Rue St-Vincent, Montréal, H2Y 3A4
El Pequeno Bar, ranked 29th among North America's Best Bars, is a hidden gem in Old Montreal. Inspired by the golden age of 1920s Havana, this tiny 150-square-foot space charms with its exposed brick walls and a stunning chandelier, radiating irresistible vintage flair. The menu masterfully blends Cuban classics with creative innovations. Try the iconic El Presidente or the bold Mango No. 5, a delightful mix of rum and mango. Pair your drink with a Cubano Sandwich or plantain chips for a full Cuban experience. Cozy yet lively, El Pequeno is the perfect spot for cocktail lovers looking for refined flavors and an extraordinary setting.
1233 Avenue Mont-Royal E, Montréal, H2J 1Y2
Located on Mont-Royal Avenue East, Mlle Rosa is a cocktail and tapas bar that redefines mixology with boldness and creativity. Each cocktail is crafted like a true masterpiece, such as the Toki Wasabi, an intriguing blend of Japanese whisky, kiwi, and wasabi, or the Dragonfruit Sour, an exotic fusion of pisco and dragon fruit. The menu, inspired by Indian flavors, features refined tapas that pair perfectly with the drinks. The chic atmosphere transforms into a lively party with DJ nights from Thursday to Saturday, perfect for extending the evening with friends. From show-stopping cocktails to electrifying DJ beats, Mlle Rosa guarantees nights that leave a lasting impression and make you want to come back for more.
For more details and to discover our top recommendations, check out our full article on the best cocktail spots in town.
The Best Speakeasies in Montreal
4263 Rue Ontario E, Montréal, H1V 1K4
With its dim lighting and speakeasy charm, Copilote, in Hochelaga, is much more than just a hidden bar. The latest addition to the Hélico family easily earns its place among our favorite speakeasies, as well as in the ranks of the best cocktail and wine bars in the city. Its menu boasts 18 bold signature creations, such as the El Dorado, a captivating blend of mezcal and mango purée, or the Zen, a delicate harmony of gin, jasmine, and agave. On the food side, refined dishes like leek and blood sausage or the blue cheese and grape dessert elevate the experience. With a carefully curated wine selection and meticulously crafted plates, Copilote redefines modern elegance in a setting where every detail matters.
2021 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3K8
Behind the intriguing facade of a detective agency, Le 4e Mur invites you on an immersive adventure in the heart of Montreal's Quartier des Spectacles. This speakeasy captures the spirit of the 1920s with signature cocktails like the Tigre Blanc or the Papi Flynt, blending boldness and sophistication. Pair your drink with flavorful dishes such as the iconic Guy's potatoes or a reimagined grilled cheese. The interactive mystery concept, with clues hidden in a captivating gazette, adds a playful twist to the experience. The dimly lit atmosphere, enhanced by burlesque performances, gives the venue a theatrical flair. Le 4e Mur masterfully combines mystery, creativity, and mixology for an unforgettable night in Montreal.
Montreal's Must-Try Wine Bars
1290 Rue Beaubien E, Montréal, H2S 1P9
vinvinvin is a tribute to natural wine and the pure joy of indulging without pretense. Tucked away in Rosemont, this Nordic-inspired bar shines with a curated selection of biodynamic and organic wines, from bold Central European vintages to hidden gems of Quebec's terroir. Each bottle, whether it's a rare orange wine or a local creation, tells its own unique story. To complement these liquid treasures, the menu offers shareable dishes full of surprises: hearty steamed buns, tender duck confit, or creamy chicken liver mousse. The atmosphere, blending laid-back charm with understated elegance, invites guests to linger. Ranked among Canada's top bars, vinvinvin isn't just a spot-it's a celebration of sharing and raw pleasure. Here, simplicity meets celebration, one sip at a time.
150 Rue St-Zotique E, Montréal, H2S 1K8
Vin Mon Lapin, located in Montreal's Little Italy, stands as a must-visit destination for lovers of natural wines and bold cuisine. Ranked #1 on Canada's 100 Best Restaurants 2024 and awarded the Best Sommeliers Award, this cozy wine bar from the Joe Beef team is renowned for its carefully curated selection of organic, biodynamic, and natural wines, often sourced through private imports. Co-chefs Marc-Olivier Frappier and Jessica Noël craft a daily Quebec-inspired menu featuring standout dishes like scallops croque and cabbage with trout roe. Led by owners Marc-Antoine Gélinas, Vanya Filipovic, and Alex Landry, Vin Mon Lapin delivers an experience where every detail, from attentive service to flawless food and wine pairings, invites guests to savor the moment.
To find out more and discover our detailed recommendations, read our articles dedicated to the best wine bars and buvettes in Montreal.
Where to Enjoy Alcohol-Free Drinks in Montreal
6778 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2S 3C7
In Little Italy, Ratafia takes pride in offering mocktails as sophisticated as its signature cocktails. Creations like the Thai no gin, blending Thai basil and ginger, or the Nonno, with house bitters and non-alcoholic gin, set new standards for alcohol-free beverages. But this wine bar offers even more: its selection of natural, biodynamic, and organic wines pairs perfectly with a six-course tasting menu that seamlessly combines savory and sweet. Set in a warm Art Deco-inspired space, the team of five talented pastry chefs designs each dish as a work of art, where flavors and textures harmonize beautifully. With its inclusive approach and innovative offerings, Ratafia deserves recognition as both one of the best cocktail bars and wine bars in the city.
Multiple locations
Since its inception, La Distillerie, with locations in Quartier des Spectacles and Vieux-Longueuil, has stood out for its alcohol-free beverages that are as creative as they are refined. Creations like the Amalfi Sans Alcool, a vibrant mix of passion fruit and elderflower, or the DIY Spritz, designed for guests to assemble themselves, offer delightful surprises in every sip. Options such as the Jeune Caesar or the Corona Sunbrew prove that alcohol-free drinks can be both sophisticated and festive. The warm atmosphere, highlighted by their signature Mason jars, adds a unique nostalgic charm. Exploring their menu reveals why La Distillerie shines as brightly in the mocktail category as among the city's best cocktail bars.
Check out our full article on alcohol-free drink options in Montreal for more details and to discover our top recommendations.
Bars Where the Dance Floor Awaits You
1735 Rue St-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3K4
El Lounge Resto-Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink-it's a full immersion into the vibrant energy of Latin nightlife in the heart of Quartier des Spectacles. From the first sip, the atmosphere takes hold. A perfectly balanced margarita, a crisp and refreshing mojito, or a tropical sangria-each drink is a prelude to an unforgettable night. On the menu, Latin American flavors shine: golden empanadas, crispy chicharrón, hearty arepas, and zesty ceviche. But the real magic happens at 11 PM. The lights dim, the beats intensify, and the dance floor comes alive with the irresistible sounds of salsa, reggaeton, and bachata. The energy is electric, the crowd moves as one, and the night reaches its peak. With exotic cocktails and pulsating rhythms, El Lounge turns every evening into a celebration where the music, dancing, and laughter never stop.
2017 Rue St-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3K8
Since 2013, Point Bar has brought Latin energy to the Quartier Latin with its festive vibe and authentic South American flavors. Under the leadership of Sinai Milian, this welcoming venue offers a creative cocktail menu, featuring the renowned Point Bucket and a mojito often hailed as unmatched, even by tropical standards. With an intimate capacity of 50 people, the atmosphere comes alive with local DJs who masterfully spin Latin beats, keeping the crowd dancing late into the night. More than just a bar, it's a lively escape where friends and strangers come together to share laughter, dancing, and unforgettable memories.
1476 Rue Crescent, Montréal, H3G 2B6
Club Electric Avenue brings the spirit of the'80s and'90s back to life with timeless beats and an iconic dance floor. Located in downtown Montreal, this spot combines retro rhythms, modern lighting, and an electrifying vibe for unforgettable nights. Ideal for a night out with friends or a corporate gathering, the club offers VIP service and expertly crafted cocktails to add a touch of elegance. With its unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair, Electric Avenue is a must-visit destination for those looking to dance the night away and make lasting memories.
To find out more and discover our detailed recommendations, read our article dedicated to Montreal's supper clubs.
Montreal continues to amaze with its diverse and innovative bars, catering to all preferences-from inventive cocktails to dance-filled nights and creative non-alcoholic options. Each spot in our selection offers a unique glimpse into the city's dynamic character, combining creativity with a memorable atmosphere.
For sports fans looking for the best places to cheer on their teams in a lively setting, we recommend checking out our dedicated article on Montréal's top sports bars. Whatever your mood, Montréal has the perfect venue to make every outing unforgettable.
