Montreal’s Most Beautiful Bars: Our suggestions
As the cooler weather arrives, we see a migration of festive Montrealers from sun-warmed terraces to the interior of the city’s many bars. Always in search of the same pleasure and comfort, night owls seek not only delightful drinks, but also charming decor that transports and makes you dream. As a matter of fact, and as you well may know, Montreal is full of magnificent bars that are just waiting to welcome you for a delightful evening.
Whether it’s for a romantic date, to nibble on small dishes or to spend an evening with friends, we have put together a list of the most beautiful bars in Montreal. These places range from chic, elegant, enchanting, eclectic, intimate, welcoming and impressive, and are often a combination of these qualities. Moreover, some of these addresses find a new life in the early hours of the morning, while others offer an intimate and soft atmosphere all night long. Needless to say, there is something for everyone!
Looking for more suggestions? We suggest you check out our list of bars where to eat well on a date, establishments serving the best cocktails, as well as our list of the city’s best wine bars.
Without further ado, here is our list of the most beautiful bars to enjoy an evening drink — or two:
Bar WILLS
Wills microbrewery is a must-visit address for regulars of the former Alexandraplatz, as well as for lovers of good beer, amazing cocktails and natural wine. The design of the bar is elegant, spacious, and uncluttered, and was designed by Annika Krausz. The abundance of natural light, the large arches, the high ceilings, the custom light fixtures by Hamster, the warm grey tones of the walls and floors bring a touch of European refinement that softens the industrial feel of the place (which was previously a garage!) The walls are also adorned with the magnificent works of Montreal painter Peter Krausz, Annika’s father.
Montréal
Bar Datcha
Feeling nostalgic? The Kabinet team is there to transport you, for an evening, to a hotel lobby in the sixth arrondissement of Paris in 1971. Your food will be served in eclectic porcelain dishes reminiscent of a French brasserie. The interior design and décor by Montreal studio ADHOC Architects is impeccable. From the ceramic mosaic to the magnificent Ukrainian chandelier that hangs over one of the restaurant’s tables, you will feel like you’ve been transported to the Old Continent.
Montréal
Projet Pilote - Distillery & Brewpub
Projet Pilote might just take your breath away. The distillery section is separated from the bar by large windows and has its own address on an adjacent street (for regulatory reasons). Nevertheless, Guillaume Drapeau made sure to make his still an integral part of the magnificent decor by creating a large glass enclosure. The effect is very successful. Beer vats line the mezzanine of the bar, and are brewed on site under the supervision of Martin Allaire. The metal of the vats and the still give the place an industrial feel that complements the chic and refined decor of ACT Architecture Design. The presence of this material — far from having a simple decorative function — gives a lot of warmth to the place, and the height of the ceilings lets everything breathe.
Montréal
BAR - Big in Japan
Big in Japan bar is certainly one of Montreal’s most beautiful, hidden bars. From the outside, there’s nothing to suggest what hides behind the anonymous brown door. The breathtaking interior was designed by Braun-Braën, who created a unique space that emphasizes the long, maze-like bar. With a myriad of bottles hanging above the bar from the ceiling, and hundreds of small candles on the bar top illuminating the surroundings, the effect is something else. To drink, there are sakes, beers and wonderful cocktails. Timeless and intimate, Big in Japan is ideal for a date!
Montréal
Bar Furco
Located in the heart of the business district, Furco is ideal for an after-work drink. The space — designed by Zébulon Perron — is reminiscent of a Berlin bar, and is one of the most beautiful bars in Montreal. In addition to drinks, we also come here to dine. We recommend the charcuterie platter, which is easy to share, over a good drink; or several.
Montréal
Bar George
Bar George is located on the ground floor of a stunning heritage house in the heart of downtown Montreal, and is another to boast the title of being one of Montreal’s most stunning bars. Upon entering, the beauty of the building’s architectural history immediately catches your attention, where the immense historic wood panelling surrounds the large round bar area with its marble countertops. There is also a dining room offering traditional English cuisine. This is a perfect place to have a drink in what are truly exceptional surroundings.
Montréal
Bar Henrietta
Bar Henrietta is a charming neighbourhood bar which, in addition to carefully selected wines, masterfully prepared cocktails and various other delicious drinks, also offers very good small plates. In a slightly retro decor inspired by the taverns of the 1960s, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere for a drink with friends or a cozy date. The music is lively and danceable, and the wines are thirst-quenching; perfect to accompany a little bite to eat. Note that the owner of this site is madly in love with one of the owners of this establishment, hence our slightly biased opinion!
Montréal
Cloakroom Bar
Cloakroom is a hidden bar tucked behind the high-end tailor shop of the same name. The 19th century building is the inspiration for mixologist and bar manager Andrew Whibley, who makes cocktails that are unique to the era. People come here to try his delicious custom cocktails. Just let him know what you like and what you’re in the mood for!
Montréal
Le Majestique
In their eclectic space, Majestique is constantly bustling with foodies, so finding a seat can be a challenge! Much of the decor has been kept from the previous business, which was in this space until the 90s. There are excellent oysters to be enjoyed here, along with some of Montreal’s best fries, delicious oven-baked whelks and other fine dishes. So it should come as no surprise to find Majestique on our list of Montreal’s best bars where you can also eat well. A good time is guaranteed here, which may make Majestique just the place you are looking for on your next date!
Montréal
La Buvette Chez Simone
What characterizes Buvette chez Simone are its comforting dishes to be shared in a lively atmosphere. The industrial decor where wood dominates is the work of Zébulon Perron and has earned the address a place on this list. The service is warm and the atmosphere relaxed. Small appetizers, delicious roasted chicken, fries, salads, cheeses, charcuterie or dishes of the moment: the menu is generous and always delicious! Plus, the terrace is part of our list of the most beautiful terraces to have a drink in Montreal.
Montréal
Le Bar Darling
Le Darling is a café-bar from the same owners as Majestique and Waverly. In an eclectic and truly original setting, you can enjoy craft beers and ciders. The vast windows, leather benches, lush greenery, and objects of all kinds make this place one of the most beautiful bars in Montreal. A menu of snacks is available to accompany a drink or bottle. The place is also part of our list of the most beautiful cafés in Montreal.
Montréal
Brasserie Harricana / Restaurant & Boutique
In a magnificent space on the border of Little Italy and Mile-Ex, Brasserie Harricana has everything to please almost everyone. The decor and architecture are the work of architect Alain Carle, who was inspired by breweries of the 1970s. Many elements of the decor are still those of the period; the tables, chairs and lighting fixtures are from the original brewery.
Montréal
Atwater Cocktail Club
Atwater Cocktail Club’s eclectic decor, designed by Gauley Brothers, features fuchsia pink banquettes, wooden floors, subdued lighting and a ceiling lined with mirrors. As well as offering a dozen tasty cocktails, you can indulge in the Foiegwa menu of tartares, burgers and other classics. The Atwater Cocktail Club is a chic spot that is also on our list of the best bars where you can also eat well in Montreal.
Montréal
Bird Bar
Did you know that Birdbar has a hidden bar tucked-away inside? If not, then allow yourself to discover Henden, an impressive address with a Moroccan-inspired decor. Whether for enjoying a cocktail with a small bite, having a drink before dinner, or finishing off your evening with a nightcap, Henden is sure to charm. Together with their own cocktails, you can also order Birdbar’s champagnes and wine, in addition to delicious oysters, caviar, blinis and other small bites.
Montréal
Knox
Knox is a lovely tavern located in the heart of Pointe Saint-Charles. The atmosphere here is welcoming and relaxed, and they offer a large variety of beers and delicious, hearty dishes. The decor is friendly and has everything to please: wood and vegetation up to the ceiling, brick walls and lots of windows to let the light in.
Montréal
Nacarat Bar
Nacarat is the superb bar of the magnificent Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth. In a sophisticated atmosphere, they serve good beers, a fine selection of whiskies, wines and champagnes, but above all high-end cocktails executed by expert mixologists. The chic and cosy decor is perfect for a memorable evening out.
Montréal
Bar Waverly
Waverly is a charming neighbourhood bar located in the Mile End. This warmly decorated bar offers an equally comforting menu. Always busy, the bar hosts many events. We head there to party and for its authentic decor.
Montréal
vinvinvin
vinvinvin is a beautiful and colourful bar that brightens up the Petite-Patrie and waters the neighbourhood just right. A superb project from an amazing team who know what they’re doing! vinvinvin offers a varied and truly delicious selection of “living” northern climate wines accompanied by small gourmet dishes to share.
Montréal
Taverne Atlantic
Taverne Atlantic is a great place to party or to simply have a drink in the neighbourhood. The address was opened by the trio of Alexandre Baldwin, Alexandre Wolosianski and Éric Dupuis (Bar Henrietta, Tavern Square Dominion, Balsam Inn) accompanied by Simon Cantin (Manitoba). Located in Mile Ex, on Park Avenue, the space is ideal for a lively evening with friends, one-on-one, or solo! As for refreshments, there is something for everyone, and everything is very good. The house quenches the thirst of wine, beer, cocktails, cider and even bubbles lovers.
Montréal
BAR ST-DENIS
Visit the elegant Bar St-Denis restaurant to discover cuisine and wines that will not disappoint. The decor of Bar St-Denis is magnificent and was designed by Kim Parizeau of APPAREIL Architecture. The team chose to use materials that will age well, such as brass, and give character to the bar with beautiful lighting. The rest of the decor is designed to create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels at home — and they have certainly succeeded.
Montréal
Cabaret Vol de Nuit
Vol de Nuit opened its doors on April 5, 2018 after metamorphosing into one of the most beautiful bars in town. Designed by Alain Carle and Jerry Carew, the place’s decor is chic and elegant. Its red tones, cabaret-style lighting, velvety chairs and magnificent ceiling mural take you on a journey. Its large and unique space with 150 seats is open; one can comfortably settle in to enjoy good beers, good wines and signature cocktails. A very chic address on Prince-Arthur Street to discover.
Montréal
Milky Way Cocktail Bar
Located on the second floor of the excellent Fugazzi restaurant, the Milky Way bar invites its customers to continue their evening in a truly unique space. A galactic-coloured staircase leads you into the bar. Designed by the Gauley Brothers, The Milky Way is all about extravagant elegance, highlighted by surreal lighting colours. To top off the out-of-this-world experience, you’ll enjoy some of the best cocktails in Montreal.
Montréal
King Crab
King Crab is the hidden bar of Makro, the seafood restaurant owned by Grinder. Like Makro, the decor at King Crab — by the Gauley Brothers — is gorgeous. The 75-seat space has carpeted walls, a selfie corner, mirrors, glittering banquettes, and marble tables, creating an intimate, chic, and elegant space. The beautiful bar is also now part of our list of the best hidden bars in Montreal.
Montréal
Nhậu bar
Nhau Bar is the cocktail bar of Hà in Old Montreal! The decor of Nhau Bar, conceived by the talented designer Amlyne Phillips and her team, is once again superb! The space of about 50 seats is both friendly and intimate: there is a long bar and several small tables surrounding it. A hundred lanterns are hanging, giving a festive air and, on the walls, there are rugs and fabrics that are invitations to travel.
Montréal
