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.
Busy, cozy little jazz spot with great cocktails & a romantic, dreamy vibe. Feels like you're on the set of a movie. It was busy when we went so we waited quite awhile for our drinks & food but didn't mind at all because the music was so good
Small, but cozy with a great ambience. Dinner is expensive but worth the price. Make sure you look up who's playing when you make your reservation & you won't be disappointed.
Feb 16, 2026
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I had an amazing time at Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill. I sat at the bar for the show. My bartender was very attentive & kind. It was the night before Valentines Day & I was solo but I didn't feel awkward or lonely. The band was fantastic & the venue was cozy & romantic
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.
Oct 26, 2025
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Cozy place with a lot of character. Brick walls, candlelight, a grand piano by the window - everything sets the mood just right. The music is good, the staff is kind, & it's just a nice spot to relax.. We only had one evening in Montreal - & we're glad we spent it in this jazz bar.
Imagine a nice, cozy cottage but in the middle of a beautiful, cosmopolitan city. Imagine you've hired a private chef fully staffed. Now imagine that your friends brought their friends who happen to be amazing jazz musicians. …& they start playing with full force yet in a very friendly way, they play pieces that take you places & make your night one to remember. I will remember that night. Thank you!
Make sure to make a reservation for an hour before the show is meant to start so you have time to order & eat your food (we got there for 06:30pm for a 7:30pm jazz show on Wednesday night). The seating is very close & cozy & you are able to chat before the show starts but won't be able to (& shouldn't!) once the show starts.
The jazz was up close & personal & VERY GOOD! If you are looking for a cozy & authentic night of jazz in Montreal you won't be disappointed with Upstairs.
The food was really amazing! It is VERY reasonably priced, a fairly large serving, & surprisingly fancy! Like I said the place is very cozy so the serving staff are side stepping quite gracefully between the tables, & never stop moving, but expect a bit of a wait for your food if it is a full house.
Aug 7, 2025
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I had a great experience last Friday as I went with my friend to watch a show. Music was great, cocktails were great & the place super cozy & intimate. Would recommend for a date!
If you're looking for a cozy spot to hear jazz then you have to visit Upstairs. Make sure to make a reservation which was easy online. & then get ready for a very intimate jazz club with great food. & of course great drinks. I sat at the bar & had a great time with the server while listening to a really good jazz sextet playing mostly original music.
Music almost every night a week I think….& always changing.
Fantastic little cozy venue for both music, drinks & dining! Saw/heard jazz singer Laura Anglade & her 3 person band there last night & she/they were the highlight for me, of this year's Montréal Jazz Festival!
Great place to see a nice show. It is cozy & feels close to the band. Have plenty of space even sitting at the bar.
Service is great & fast. & the fact that the price of the Thursday show is included makes it easier to manage.
Jun 13, 2025
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My husband & I enjoyed our time at this establishment. Amazing live jazz music in a small & cozy atmosphere. Our server was very attentive & friendly. Highly
recommend!
I was ecstatic in this place, the music was incredible, a beautiful show, the food was delicious, a very cozy & beautiful place, the waiter was super friendly the whole time, we will definitely come back.
I can't get enough of this place. It's cozy, relaxing, fun, & efficient. They bring in the best musicians, & everything feels like I am part of something special. Genuinely. :)
Fun spot to come see some live shows, cozy & intimate, can be a little tight trying to leave The fish & chips were delicious End of the bar isn't the greatest spot to see the shows but all the servers & bartenders are so chill & gave off such good vibes that I had fun regardless
