Top 5 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Montreal

Montreal's iconic skyline featuring diverse architectural styles and prominent skyscrapers.
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Montreal's drinking scene is notably vibrant and diverse, attracting a mix of locals and visitors with its array of sophisticated cocktail bars, intimate speakeasies, extensive wine bars, and lively brewpubs. The city maintains a dynamic nightlife, with venues offering everything from crafted beverages to unique, themed experiences.

Entertainment and Music:

Montreal's entertainment scene is vibrant, heavily influenced by its dynamic live music offerings and numerous annual festivals.

Montreal boasts a vibrant live music scene across various genres, from the intimate jazz performances at Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill to the energetic punk and rock shows at Les Foufounes Électriques. Larger acts also frequent venues like MTELUS, complementing a year-round calendar of renowned music festivals, including the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal and Osheaga.

1. The Coldroom

Type: Speakeasy Cocktail Bar

Tucked away in Old Montreal, The Coldroom offers a dimly lit, cozy, and secretive atmosphere. Guests will find no menu; instead, bartenders craft custom drinks based on individual flavor preferences. It's a place to expect a personalized cocktail experience.

Getting There: Located in Old Montreal, it is typically within walking distance from many central areas. For those further afield, public transport (metro/bus) is available, with a single fare costing $3.75 CAD.

2. Le Vin Papillon

Type: Wine Bar

This charming and cozy wine bar provides an urban yet rustic setting. The atmosphere is warm with earthy tones, white brick, and wine barrels. It features a diverse selection of wines, including natural and organic options, making it ideal for those seeking unique wine discoveries paired with gourmet bites.

Getting There: Le Vin Papillon is situated in Griffintown/St-Henri. Public transport is accessible via metro and bus, with a single fare costing $3.75 CAD.

3. Atwater Cocktail Club

Type: Cocktail Bar

Hidden down a graffiti-lined alleyway, this charismatic cocktail bar presents a dramatic setting with dark walls, silver banquettes, and glass ceilings. The atmosphere is convivial and known for its creative, high-quality cocktails, often incorporating innovative techniques. It's a popular spot that takes walk-ins, so be prepared for a potential wait on busy nights.

Getting There: Located in downtown Montreal, it is often walkable from many central points. Public transport options (metro/bus) are readily available; a single fare costs $3.75 CAD.

4. Dieu du Ciel!

Type: Brewpub

Known for its excellent craft beers, this brewpub offers a great vibe for beer enthusiasts. It's a place to experience a wide range of house-brewed beers in a lively environment.

Getting There: Located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal area, it is accessible by Montreal's metro and bus system. A single public transport fare is $3.75 CAD.

5. Le Rouge Gorge

Type: Wine Bar

Le Rouge Gorge offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, with chic decor featuring marble-topped bars and white-painted brick walls. It boasts an extensive wine list, primarily focusing on French regions, and is known for its gourmet food pairings. It can be a great spot for happy hour or an intimate date.

Getting There: Situated on Avenue Mont-Royal in Plateau Mont-Royal, this venue is easily reachable by public transport. A single metro or bus fare costs $3.75 CAD.