Best Live Entertainment / Shows Restaurants in Golden Square Mile (2026) - Reviews & Menus

Shô-Dan (Shodan)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Review Summary

Shô-Dan earns praise for fresh, beautifully presented sushi and inventive, high quality dishes housed in an upscale yet welcoming setting. Specialty rolls like Cancun and Black Dragon stand out for creativity, and the service is consistently attentive, making it a great spot for a shopping break or celebration. Prices are on the higher side and a few items miss the mark, with overcooked edamame or bland non specialty rolls mentioned, but the overall experience is described as refined, delicious, and worth returning for. The emphasis on freshness, thoughtful presentation, and a memorable atmosphere, along with friendly staff and dessert options, rounds out a standout dining experience.View restaurant profile

Les Trois Monkeys

Family entertainment center with a variety of fun activities including bowling, laser tag, indoor mini putt, arcades and complete resto-bar.

Opens Today at 11 am

(463)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Burgers Comfort Food Poutine Pizza Salads Chicken Wings

Mentioned in: The Best Sports Bars in Montreal: Where to Watch Your Favorite Games Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Montreal with Tacos, Tequila and More View More

Review Summary

Les Trois Monkeys is described as an energetic all-in-one venue where arcade games, mini golf, bowling, laser tag, and a full bar and restaurant come together to create easygoing fun for families and friends. Reviewers praise the wide variety of games, the engaging arcade and ticket rewards, and the modern, clean facilities that stay lively late. The bowling lanes, laser tag experiences, and other activities are highlighted as highlights that keep groups entertained for hours. The staff across areas are consistently noted for friendly, accommodating service and a welcoming vibe, with many mentions of helpful bartenders and attentive servers. The drinks, food, and overall atmosphere are described as enjoyable and affordable, contributing to a warm, upbeat mood. The location downtown and the family-friendly energy make it a popular go-to for gatherings, celebrations, or a night out with friends, with something for everyone to enjoy.View restaurant profile

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Bar Nacarat

Located in the Hôtel Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

Opens Tuesday at 4 pm

(196)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Tartare Seafood/Fish Grill Charcuterie Contemporary/Modern Pub Food

Mentioned in: 17 Restaurants with Amazing Views in Greater Montreal Sip & Savor: The Ultimate Guide to Montreal's Cocktail Scene View More

Review Summary

Bar Nacarat draws praise for a warm, intimate atmosphere and a chic setting complemented by a radiant rooftop view that makes evenings feel extra special. Cocktails are celebrated for creativity, balance and showmanship, with drinks ranging from richly complex to perfectly approachable, crafted by a skilled and attentive team even during the busiest hours. The experience often includes thoughtful bar snacks and a welcoming staff, with music and lighting that enhance the mood for dates or friendly gatherings. While prices can be on the higher side and a few signature drinks or non alcoholic options may not hit every note, the overall impression is one of professional hospitality, impressive technique and a memorable high quality outing at Bar Nacarat.View restaurant profile

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Grumpys Bar

Opens Today at 5 pm

(63)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Snacks & Treats Sandwiches

Mentioned in: Where to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Montreal?The Best Quiz and Trivia Nights in Montreal View More

Review Summary

Grumpys Bar comes across in reviews as a cozy, divey Montreal staple with a friendly staff and a welcoming regular crowd. Fresh beer, reasonable prices, and strong musical nights stand out, from Thursday bluegrass to Irish tunes and local favorites played on the screen, with The Wire often in the background. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, a cool vibe where one can grab a mocktail or a beer without drawing attention. No food is served; the emphasis is on drinks and good times in a relaxed setting. A gruff looking bartender appears in some notes, but overall service is appreciated and the mood stays friendly and authentic. It is described as different from tourist spots, a downtown Montreal staple that appeals to locals and professionals seeking a comfortable, unflashy bar. The reviews reflect language variety and classic charm, with the beer described as always fresh and the vibe suitable for both lively nights and quieter evenings.View restaurant profile

Sir Winston Churchill Pub

Opens Today at 12 pm

(423)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

International Grill

Mentioned in: Where to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Montreal?

Review Summary

Reviews of Sir Winston Churchill Pub describe a timeless Montreal pub with warm dark wood, classic decor, and a welcoming, unpretentious vibe that stays charming rather than trendy. The atmosphere draws a mixed crowd of locals and visitors, making it easy to relax, chat, or watch a game while enjoying a well curated beer list that pours reliably, with options ranging from local to traditional favorites. Food is pub fare that is generally decent and tasty, though some feel it does not always match the price, while others praise solid snacks and standout dishes, suggesting variable value. Service is frequently praised for friendliness and attentiveness, though a few reviews note slower or uneven service during peak times. Live music, a terrace with street views, and a strong happy hour contribute to a vibe suitable for both socializing and quiet evenings, though some nights can be darker inside or more crowded; overall, it is viewed as a reliable spot for drinks and casual bites in a genuine pub atmosphere, with drinks and ambience receiving the most consistent praise despite mixed opinions on price and menu quality.View restaurant profile

Wienstein & Gavino's

Opens Today at 11 am

(1007)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Italian Pizza Grill Pasta

Mentioned in: Where to Eat Before a Hockey Game or Concert at Montreal's Bell Centre

Review Summary

Reviews highlight Wienstein & Gavino's as a lively Italian spot on Crescent Street with fresh pasta, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a reliable downtown option for pizza, pasta, and seafood. The pasta is frequently described as fresh and flavorful with items such as pesto al basilico, fettuccine Alfredo, ravioli, and other house specialties, and the pizzas and arancini are often cited as standouts along with burrata bruschetta. The service is praised for friendliness and attentiveness, though there are occasional notes of slower pace or less consistent front of house during busy times, and a few visits mention noise level and large crowds. The ambience is described as chic yet comfortable, with a vibrant energy, warm bread with olive oil, and a solid wine and cocktail program that pairs well with meals, sometimes with lively terrace options. Some reviews point to minor drawbacks such as occasional heavy sauces, limited menu clarity on certain dishes, or accessibility concerns, but the consensus is that the restaurant delivers flavorful Italian fare in generous portions at good value, prompting repeat visits and recommendations to friends.View restaurant profile

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Abu el Zulof

Opens Today at 1 pm

(575)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Grill Middle Eastern Salads

Review Summary

Overall, reviews describe Abu el Zulof as a lively, welcoming spot where authentic Middle Eastern flavors shine in generous portions, with highlights including mezze, kebab, mansaf, tabbouleh, fattoush, kibbeh nayyeh, and other traditional dishes that keep guests coming back. The atmosphere is repeatedly praised for being warm and festive, with live music and a belly dancer on certain evenings that many find memorable, while the service is often described as friendly, attentive, and professional, making diners feel at home. Guests commonly commend fresh, well seasoned food that is nicely presented and reliably flavorful, and note that the per person set menus and sharing style work well for groups and celebrations. Some reviews mention high prices relative to portion sizes or occasional inconsistency in portions or pacing, and a few dishes receive mixed opinions. Overall, Abu el Zulof is regarded as a strong choice for authentic Lebanese and Middle Eastern dining with a vibrant ambiance, great value for some, and a willingness to return for the overall experience.View restaurant profile

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Hurley's Irish Pub

Cozy pub with brick walls and carved wood, and a patio to enjoy draft beer, single malts, food and live music.

Opens Today at 11 am

(592)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Irish Pub Food Fish & Chips Burgers Chicken Wings

Mentioned in: Where to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Montreal?The Best Quiz and Trivia Nights in Montreal View More

Review Summary

Overall, Hurley's Irish Pub comes across as a Montreal institution, offering a welcoming two floor layout with cozy corners, live music, and a festive Celtic atmosphere that works for pre game buzz or a relaxed night out. Reviewers praise a tremendous beer selection and an impressive whiskey list, along with solid pub fare and standout dishes like beef stew or a hearty fish and chips, though some meals have been noted as inconsistent and portions as smaller since Covid. Staff receive frequent compliments for friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to a warm, engaging vibe across multiple visits. Two levels, a downstairs intimate space and an upstairs area with music, plus a terrace, are highlighted as great features that add to the original charm, though crowds can push seating and service during peak times. While prices can be on the higher side and a few menu items have been cut back, the overall sentiment is that this pub delivers a top notch experience for beer lovers, sports crowds, and fans of live Irish music. Many say they will return, making this a go to spot in Montreal for those seeking good drinks, lively entertainment, and a friendly crowd.View restaurant profile

Brutopia

Opens Today at 2 pm

(379)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Pub Food Sandwiches

Review Summary

Brutopia is described as a lively downtown Montreal pub with a solid lineup of house brewed beers, some guest taps, and a welcoming casual vibe. Reviewers note frequent live music and open mic nights that add a friendly, neighborhood feel, a small stage, and a bustling yet accommodating atmosphere. The beer selection is praised for freshness and variety, with favorites like nut brown ale, a West Coast IPA, and stout mentioned, and overall quality described as reliable. Food receives mixed but generally positive comments, with crowd pleasers like burgers and poutine, though a few dishes are noted for consistency. Service is described as friendly and efficient on many visits, though some experiences mention delays or order mix ups during peak times. The space is portrayed as cozy and intimate yet busy, with a welcoming vibe and clean facilities, and the patio is suggested for a quieter experience when the music is loud.View restaurant profile

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Piranha Bar

Opens Today at 8 am

(388)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Bar Pub Food

Review Summary

Reviews describe Piranha Bar as a downtown dive with an electric, eclectic vibe where cheap drinks, a welcoming crowd and a heavy metal, punk and goth sensibility draw locals and visitors alike. Staff are repeatedly praised for friendly, attentive service, the shows are well staged with solid sound for the venue size, and the place is noted for its lively atmosphere, a big terrace and even slot machines. Safety is a concern for some, with warnings to go in groups for young women and calls for better security. No kitchen currently serving food, but outside food is allowed, and the venue is known for its real piranha tank feature that adds to the unique vibe. Overall the place is seen as a standout metal-focused hub in the city, beloved by a mixed crowd and appreciated for its character, price point, and consistent live entertainment.View restaurant profile

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

Opens Today at 5:30 pm

(755)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Bar Grill

Review Summary

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill is praised for its intimate, warm atmosphere and the strong live jazz that many consider among Montreal's best. The small venue offers excellent acoustics and sightlines, with the ambience described as cozy, romantic, or electric depending on the night. Reservations are highly recommended because shows fill up, and seating can be tight with a few tables offering less optimal views. Service is frequently described as friendly and attentive, though some visits report slower service during peak times and occasional missteps. The food range is generally good to very good, with several dishes highlighted, but some reviews note inconsistency in temperature or quality and meals arriving not hot enough. The music earns high marks for talent and variety, though some nights feature louder or more vocal sets; choosing the lineup in advance and opting for instrumental sets is advised. Price point is often described as on the higher side for a jazz club, with value tied to the ambience and performances but some feel it can be pricey when dining. Overall, Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill remains a beloved destination for jazz lovers, delivering great music in a cozy venue with caveats about seating, service speed during busy shows, and occasional food inconsistencies.View restaurant profile