This tiny neighborhood bar, in the “irreducible Gaulish” style (i.e. not trying to be trendy), offers really cheap beer and rock music shows from time to time. If you don’t know the place, you’ll probably have a hard time finding it; it looks like the door to an apartment. But you’ll be welcomed like at home, so no worries.
Barfly is described as one of Montreal's most authentic dive bars, a gritty gem in the Plateau that pulses with character where musicians, artists, and industry folks swap stories over pints of in-house lager. Free pool and a central table create a communal vibe, while the low lighting, eclectic music, and constant buzz set a scene where it feels easy to strike up conversations after a set or a recording session. Notable quirks include graffiti-covered bathroom walls that invite patrons to leave their mark, and the place embraces its rough edges rather than trying to be fancy, which is part of its appeal. Visitors describe great staff and strong live music, with the owner credited for making Barfly a go-to spot in Montreal. One review recalls a smell on a particular night and hopes for a fix. Another review mentions a rude bartender who pressured tipping, a contrast to the welcoming atmosphere noted by others. Overall the sentiment is that Barfly delivers a raw, real dive bar experience, a homey venue where free pool, in-house lager, and a vibrant creative crowd come together, making it a favorite for many.
Debit machine has tip options of 19% & 23% both way higher than is customary.
If u give less you will get a snarky remark from the server. Weird way to do business. It is a graduity not a fee.
1. I won't come back here.
2. I won't be tipping if I have to come to the bar or for take-out.
I've been a server before. They get guaranteed minimum wage like everyone else. Stop this nonsense.
Barfly is one of Montreal's most authentic dive bars, a gritty gem tucked into the heart of the Plateau that pulses with character & charm. It's the kind of place where musicians, artists, & industry folks gather after hours, swapping stories over pints of their crisp, in-house lager. The vibe is laid-back & unpretentious, making it easy to strike up a conversation with someone who just came off stage or out of the studio.
The pool table is a central fixture-well-loved & always in use. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking to kill time between rounds, it adds a communal feel to the space. The music is eclectic, the lighting is low, & the energy is always buzzing.
One of Barfly's quirks is its legendary bathroom walls, covered in layers of graffiti, stickers, & scribbled memories. It's practically a rite of passage to leave your mark-just grab a Sharpie & add your voice to the collage of past patrons.
Barfly isn't trying to be fancy, & that's exactly why it works. It's raw, real, & reliably fun. If you're looking for a place to drink, shoot pool, & meet Montreal's creative crowd, Barfly delivers.
Used to be my favorite bar, but I see that the blond bartender woman is rude with everyone else too. Well, she literally complained about the tip I gave, & the second time I went for a drink she forced me to tip more, otherwise no beer. Ain't cool. Especially since I'm a bartender as well. That's not how you treat guests 😬
This is my favorite bar. It's the CBGB's of Montreal. Lots of great bands play there, it feels like home. Good place to have a drink & watch the Habs play & the bartenders are awesome people.
Jul 3, 2025
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I wish I could say everyone was rude & disrespectful being as it is a dive bar. But Edan was nice & made sure everyone felt welcome even at the shift change & with the'easy dj' which may not be everyone's vibe for a dive bar. My only suggestion would be to play more dive bar music & less techno but that's just me.
