Reviews describe Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill as an intimate, cozy venue with high quality live jazz that makes audiences feel close to the performers. The program ranges from local favorites to guest artists, delivering energetic performances that are often praised as fantastic, memorable, or magical. Food and drinks are generally well received, with many noting tasty dishes and good value, though a few comments point to occasional dishes arriving not as hot as hoped or menus needing refreshed. The atmosphere is frequently described as romantic or warm, making it a great setting for a night out or a relaxed evening of music, while the venue can feel crowded and seating tight during peak hours. Service is commonly described as friendly and attentive, with praise for helpful staff and efficient operation, though a minority report slower service at busy shows. Reservations are recommended, especially for popular performances, and knowing who is playing ahead of time helps select a good table. Overall Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill is seen as a Montreal staple for jazz lovers, consistently delivering memorable music and a distinctive vibe.
I only take frites & a couple of drinks. I can say that the place is really nice, great atmosphere, excellent service, very good music. I really enjoy it & I would certainly come back soon.
Nice place. Good music. There's a parking area just in front.
I hoped to hear different jazz styles. Was too repetitive for me. The food was very unflavored. I ordered seafood casserole, it it was surprisingly tasteless. My husband ordered a burger. Wasn't happy either. We paid around 120 for 2 dishes, sparkling water & the entrance fee.
Too packed also. The tables could be a bit far from each other.
Four stars for the atmosphere , the band & the overall mood. Thank you!
Second time at Upstairs for a casual dinner & cocktails, & it didn't disappoint. Once again, a great experience, excellent food, great music, & a really enjoyable atmosphere. Definitely a spot we'll keep coming back to.
Amazing atmosphere & vibe. We got such great service & had a fantastic time hearing some blues during our trip to Montreal. The food was tasty but nothing amazing, we attending the early seating where dinner is required but you may choose to attend the later one & just get snacks & drinks & enjoy some great music!
We've been loyal customers of Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill for years & have always appreciated the atmosphere & quality of performances, which makes this review particularly disappointing to write.
Last evening, we made the effort to drive a significant distance specifically to attend what we believed would be a Cuban jazz performance, based on a previous experience with the same artist. Unfortunately, the music turned out to be a mix of funk & other American jazz styles, which was not what we expected. While it may not have been explicitly advertised, clearer communication about the style of the performance would help avoid this kind of misunderstanding.
More concerning, however, was the overall experience during the show. We were seated very close to the stage in an already tight layout, next to a visibly intoxicated individual (likely under the influence of alcohol &/or drugs) who was disruptive throughout the evening. He repeatedly encroached on our space to the point where we had to physically move our table just to maintain minimal comfort. This behavior was noticeable to others as well.
Although staff appeared aware of the situation, no meaningful action was taken to address it. We did ask if we could be moved, but no alternative seating was offered. Ultimately, the experience was uncomfortable & overshadowed the entire evening.
As a gesture, one of the two tickets was removed from our bill, which we do appreciate. However, given the circumstances - including the long drive, the misleading expectations about the performance, & the lack of intervention regarding a disruptive guest - we feel that a more substantial response would have been appropriate.
It's unfortunate to say, but this will be our last visit. It's a real shame, as this used to be one of our favorite spots in Montreal. We hope management takes these concerns seriously, both in terms of clearer event descriptions & ensuring a safe & comfortable environment for guests.
MY PREVIOUS REVIEW:
We've been to Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill around fifteen times over the years, & it remains one of our favorite spots in Montreal for live music. The atmosphere is always inviting, intimate, warm, & with that unmistakable charm that makes jazz feel alive & close. The lineup is consistently strong, from local talents to seasoned performers, & the sound quality in the room is fantastic.
The beer is good but the selection is not solid, same for food is good, though I'd love to see the menu refreshed from time to time (perhaps every couple of years) just to keep things interesting. The current dishes are well-prepared, but the variety could be a bit broader. Still, the overall experience more than makes up for it: good service, great music, & a cozy setting that never loses its appeal.
Apr 8, 2026
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Fabulous experience here! The music was incredible (an extraordinary local group did a Roy Hargrove retrospective) & the staff super attentive, friendly, & efficient. We had a great evening! I liked going to the later show so we could linger over drinks & talk after the music was done.
The show was amazing but the food & the drinks we're just ok unfortunately. I had the duck & some sangria. The service was very friendly so I might go back & choose something else from the menu!
