Le Upstairs, ce sont des spectacles de jazz de grande qualité, auxquels vous pourrez assister confortablement assis dans un sofa, un verre à la main ou en dégustant un savoureux repas.
Les avis décrivent Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill comme un lieu intime et chaleureux, idéal pour écouter du jazz en direct et profiter d'une atmosphère conviviale. Le programme va d'artistes locaux à des invités, offrant des performances énergiques et souvent mémorables. La nourriture et les boissons sont généralement bien accueillies, avec plusieurs plats et boissons jugés savoureux et de bonne valeur, bien que quelques commentaires signalent des plats arrivant tièdes ou un menu à renouveler. L'atmosphère est souvent décrite comme romantique ou chaleureuse, adaptée pour une soirée ou un dîner musical; toutefois la salle peut être bondée et le placement des tables serré lors des heures de pointe. Le service est fréquemment chaleureux et efficace, avec des compliments pour le personnel attentif, mais certains trouvent le service plus lent lors des soirées très fréquentées. Les réservations sont recommandées, surtout pour les spectacles populaires, et il est utile de savoir qui joue à l'avance pour choisir une bonne table. Dans l'ensemble, Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill est perçu comme une référence montréalaise pour les amateurs de jazz, offrant régulièrement une musique mémorable et une ambiance distinctive.
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.
Great food & service. The vibe & the music were awesome.
One comment is that the singer was too loud at times shouting . I think in an intimate venue with a low ceiling it would have been a bit more pleasant on the ears if his mic was turned down a bit.
Overall a great evening.
Great venue, the ambiance is groovy & intimate! The band was GREAT (Remi-jean LEBLANC Quartet PLAYS STEVIE WONDER), unfortunately the vocals were waayyyy too loud (according to my brother's nerdy smartwatch, drums maxed at 85 dB while vocals peaked at over 112dB when she sang her stronger/higher notes, as even when belting, she never held the mic away from her lips). People tensed & winced & some literally covered their ears. We mentioned it to a waiter - in vain. Still, beautiful voice & clever jazz adaptations of Steve Wonder's hits!
Service was great, but the food was generally ordinary. (I don't recommend the ceviche, tacos or burgers) The egg noodles with sun-dried tomatoes & creamy sauce was amazing - & the cheese cake too!
My wife & I have been going to the Upstairs Jazz Bar & have enjoyed the food, ambience & great jazz for many years. The intimate atmosphere of this iconic jazz club is perfectly suited for both traditional & modern jazz bands to play in. Excellent food & a great bar along with great service contribute to very pleasant & enriching dinner & jazz evenings!
Joel Giberovitch is an outstanding owner & host who has been serving the Montreal jazz community for over 30 years! Upstairs is deservedly a regular venue in the Montreal Jazz Festival.
First time checking out Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill on a late Sunday night. There's up to 3 sets with cover ranging from free to $15.00.
The inside is intimate, dimly lit with a mix of seat options. Checked out a 10pm show (free cover) that featured a quartet but the show was only 35 min. Ordered a Belle Gueule blonde ($5.00) & Sauvignon blanc ($10.00). 3.5 stars.
Been here several times now, the most intimate & nicest jazz club I've been to! Patrons are respectful & keep quiet during the performances. You can actually enjoy the music as opposed to many other venues which have loud patrons which I find disrespectful. Will definitely be attending many shows in the future!
4 oct. 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.
A very satisfying jazz club evening!
27 juil. 2025
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