The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting longer, and that means we’ve lost our tan and the long winter months are upon us.
Fortunately, and given that Montrealers always find a silver lining to the icy winds of the dark season, it also means that our evenings (and our availability to hang out in cocktail bars, in the warmth) are getting longer.
To avoid drinking the same Baha Breeze as all our sworn enemies in a bar that was only good because of its terrace, we’re going to try out the ultimate form of cocktail bar: the speakeasy…
1.Milky Way
Where: Centre Street, Pointe-Saint-Charles
This is the most designer of all Montreal bars, and an excellent option for a second date.
You enter via Fugazzi’s pizzeria, cross a leopard-skin, then up a flight of stairs surrounded by rainbow neon lights and into a small, dark and colorful bar. We drink sweet cocktails from fish-shaped glasses.
No reservations possible.
2 .Atwater Cocktail Club
Where? Ruelle derrière le Foiegwa, Saint-Henri
Behind the steel doors of retro diner Foiegwa lies Atwater Cocktail Club.
French disco, signature cocktails and very, very exclusive. The Atwater Cocktail Club is on the 2025 list of the 50 best bars in North America…
No reservations.
3 Le Mal Nécessaire
Where? 1015 rue Saint-Alexandre
To find Le Mal Nécessaire, spot the glowing pineapple and head downstairs to discover this retro bar with a focus on tropical, sustainable cocktails.
Drinks are refreshing and often served in unique containers, perfect for a casual evening with friends.
4.Big in Japan
Where? Boulevard Saint-Laurent, no visible sign
This signless bar is easy to miss, and was one of the addresses frequented by chef Anthony Bourdain during his visits to Montreal.
Regulars can even store their own bottle of whisky on the ceiling for year-round enjoyment.
A perfect place for a mysterious, elegant evening, and the bar closes very, very late.
5.4th Wall
Where? Rue Saint-Denis, secret address
This secret bar requires registration on their website to obtain the address.
The six monthly cocktails reveal clues to solve a mystery… and that’s all we know, we swear!
6 The Coldroom
Where? Rue Saint-Amable, near Place Jacques-Cartier
Look for the duck next to the “exit” sign to enter this intimate bar. Seasonal cocktails are described with a romantic twist, perfect for a date or special evening. The bartenders here are among the best in the city, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
7 Le Rouge Gorge
Where: Rue Mont-Royal, beneath the Rouge Gorge wine bar
This elegant bar offers a cosy atmosphere with DJ sets from Thursday to Saturday.
Designed by Zébulon Perron, the decor is as impressive as the cocktails.
It’s the perfect place for a chic evening out with friends or a date.
8.Cloakroom Bar
Where? Rue de la Montagne, near rue Sherbrooke
With just 25 seats, this is one of the most intimate bars in Montreal.
We tell the waiter a little about ourselves, and he’ll create a custom cocktail, including an ice cube carved especially for us.
Perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends.
9.Nhậu Bar
Where: Rue Saint-Paul O., under Restaurant Hà
This Asian bar offers innovative cocktails in exotic containers like seashells.
Deep-house music starts at 11am, transforming the place into a lively dance floor. Arrive early to ensure a seat.
10 Club Pelicano
Where? 1076 rue de Bleury
Right in the heart of the business district, nestled in the basement of Tiradito, is Club Pelicano. This underground bar, with its Art Deco styling inspired by Paris’s Piscine Molitor, offers a true time escape with a modern, festive touch.
Lovers of private wines, house cocktails and tasty snacks will be delighted. All accompanied by a DJ who sets the mood with Afro, disco and electro rhythms.
An eclectic, visually seductive experience that transports you back to the 1930s and 1940s, and keeps you dancing into the night.
Cheers!