The best new bars of 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to unveil the must-visits! Montréal continues to surprise with its ever-vibrant nightlife scene, and this year was no exception! While we said goodbye to some beloved spots like Pullman, Miss Villeray, and La Distillerie, new bars have emerged, bringing bold concepts, inventive cocktails, and atmospheres that make Montréal’s nights come alive. From intimate spots for a great cocktail (Leonor, Mal Nécessaire) to cozy wine bars like Polari, and festive bars like Bowie, where you can party until the early hours, the city’s bar scene has something for everyone. Not to mention the sports bars—Chez Miller has quickly become our go-to spot for enjoying chicken wings while watching the game.

Behind each bar is a passionate team, eager to create memorable experiences. These places combine the art of cocktail-making with carefully crafted atmospheres, stunning décor, and unforgettable nights. The new bars of 2024 in Montréal don’t just serve drinks; they redefine the evening experience, creating spaces where you feel at home, yet always a little bit elsewhere.

We’ve already shared the list of the best new cafés, bakeries, and patisseries of 2024. So, if you’re looking to discover the most exciting new spots on Montréal’s bar scene this year, here’s our selection of the best new addresses you can’t miss.

Wishing you a Happy New Year!

Bar Leonor

Opened in November 2024, Bar Leonor has quickly become a must-visit destination for enjoying exquisite cocktails in a unique setting. Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, this cocktail bar charms with its electrifying and inclusive atmosphere, perfect for lively and festive nights out.    

1106 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Montréal

Bar Le Mal Nécessaire

Nestled in the heart of the Business District, on the ground floor of Google’s offices, you’ll find Mal Nécessaire: a refined tropical-inspired cocktail bar! Previously located in the basement of Chinatown since 2014, the bar has made a fresh start this year in its new location.

1015 Rue Saint-Alexandre
Montreal

Le French Line

Le French Line, the new cocktail bar at the restaurant Île de France on the 9th floor, opened in June 2024. This intimate 35-seat venue offers more than just cocktails; it provides an experience steeped in history and elegance, with an unbeatable view of the city of Montréal.    

1500 boulevard Robert-Bourassa, suite 900
Montréal

Polari

On rue de Castelnau, in Villeray, behind a small garage door, lies a charming wine bar that’s definitely worth discovering. We love Polari for its unpretentious vibe, offering quality wines without the fuss. The owners’ desire to truly integrate into the neighborhood is at the heart of this establishment, and we absolutely admire that. Long live Polari!    

375 Rue de Castelnau East
Montréal

Chez Miller

Behind the project is the team composed of Jean-Philippe Bouchard, Alexandre Théberge, François Chamberland, and Charles Landry, who are also behind Midway, Taverne Marion, and Moqueur, three renowned cocktail bars. While Miller is not a cocktail bar, it serves as an excellent addition to their growing portfolio of lively and festive spots.      

1840 Rue Atateken
Montréal
Courtepointe Tastet a S5

La Courtepointe

If you’ve been strolling through the neighborhood recently, you’ve probably noticed that the beloved Miss Villeray, a Montreal institution, has closed its doors. (Sniff) But don’t worry, the area is still buzzing with energy! That’s because a new neighborhood bar has taken its place, and clearly, we’re not the only ones excited about it.    

220 Rue Villeray
Montréal

Éléonore - Buvette

Éléonore is the new culinary hotspot settling in the Sainte-Marie neighborhood, at the heart of the Mellem Ville-Marie residential project. Part of a development featuring two neighboring buildings with 216 rental apartments, this restaurant will be managed by the SUPER group, the team behind beloved spots like Minéral Bar, Cour Arrière, and Waverly Bar. Located just steps from the recently opened Junco Café, Éléonore promises a refined dining experience in a modern and welcoming setting.    

2804 Rue Ontario East
Montréal

Maison Close

The wine bar Maison Close quietly opened its doors in April 2024. Located in the former space of the restaurant Le Flamant on Ontario Street, the establishment is run by the same owners, Pascal Bolduc and David Hibon, who are also behind Octo, right next door.    

4043 Rue Ontario East
Montréal

Bar Star Bar

Star Bar, the latest addition from the team behind Pizza Bouquet, is already drawing attention on Saint-Laurent Boulevard. This new venue offers a unique experience where you can enjoy the famous New York-style pizzas from Pizza Bouquet, ranked among the best in Montreal, all while sipping a drink in a lively and festive atmosphere.    

4671 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Montréal

Bar Vivar

Two former Joe Beef veterans, chef-owner Georges Greiche in the kitchen and his friend Patrick Oakes in the front of house, have teamed up at Bar Vivar. The duo offers a delicious and affordable Spanish tapas menu that is sure to quickly make this spot a must-visit in Montreal.    

533 Avenue Duluth Est
Montréal

Copilote

Located next to the Hélicoptère restaurant, in a former neighborhood convenience store, Copilote opened its doors in March 2024. With a cozy, intriguing, and seductive atmosphere that is both chic and laid-back, this 25-seat bar beautifully completes the final chapter of the Hélico family’s café/restaurant/bar trilogy.    

4263 Rue Ontario East
Montréal
Croco Max JS Watermark

Crocodile

The Alambika store, located at the corner of Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Beaubien, has partnered with renowned Quebec mixologist Max Coubès to create a unique experience. Since May 18, the hidden space at the back of the store, known as L’Alkadémie, has transformed into an exclusive aperitif bar: Le Crocodile.    

10 Rue Beaubien Ouest
Montréal
Bowie 1

Bowie

Le Bowie, located in the basement of Dorsia in Old Montreal, is a new venue redefining high-end festive nights in the city. Inspired by the world’s most prestigious private clubs, this restaurant-bar from WITH Hospitality offers a unique experience. With its elegant décor, dim lighting, and intimate atmosphere, Bowie is a must-visit for those who appreciate exclusive spots.    

457 Rue Sainte-Hélène
Montréal
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Photography by Alison Slattery



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