Rodman: A Festive Caribbean-Inspired Bar in the Mile End

At the corner of Saint-Laurent and Saint-Viateur, in the former Waverly space, Rodman brings a fresh new energy to the Mile End. The spot is an ode to Caribbean flavors — refined yet rooted — a warm and spicy breeze the neighborhood didn’t know it needed. At the helm of this beautiful project is Akim Acacia, co-owner of Piklìz in Saint-Henri.

Caribbean Flavors, Refined and Joyful

The classics of Caribbean cuisine are prepared with finesse and a touch of creative fusion, under the direction of chef Lordna Christina. The ti bœuf skewers come out tender and juicy, resting on a fiery “fiyah” mayo, balanced by a fresh herb salad. The fritay, straight outta Haiti, gathers the essentials — accras, marinades, fried plantains, griot, and pikliz, all tied together with a luscious aioli. It’s generous, colorful, and bursting with life.

But the real showstopper — the one we’d recommend without hesitation — is the cornflake-style crispy chicken: crunchy coating, juicy meat, served with a tangy mango chow and house-made ranch. It’s fun, surprising, and tastes like the best summer nights.

Late-Night Eats & Crafted Drinks

Here, the kitchen stays open until 2 a.m., perfect for anyone not quite ready to call it a night — or for those late cravings after one too many drinks. The late-night menu keeps the vibe going: bananes pesées, griot, jerk chicken sandwiches… dishes that feed both conversation and appetite.

Behind the bar, Maximilien Jean of Cloakroom fame has curated a cocktail list that’s thoughtful, coherent, and designed to complement the food rather than overpower it. The Mai Tai Kremas reimagines the tiki classic with a Creole twist — kremas, the silky Haitian liqueur made with coconut milk, rum, and spices, softens the edges and adds a dessert-like touch. The Djondjon Martini plays with salinity through an umami brine inspired by Haiti’s black mushroom — a subtle nod to the traditional riz djondjon. And for purists, the ti punch holds its rightful place: simple, direct, and unapologetic. Even the mocktails are treated with care — perfect for those who want to toast without alcohol, but not without joy.

A Vibe That Evolves Through the Night

Before 10 p.m., the atmosphere is soft and intimate, ideal for a dinner with friends or a first date. As the night unfolds, the energy shifts: the playlist blends Afro beats, kompa, and hip-hop; the lights dim; laughter rises. It’s festive without chaos, lively without excess — a sincere, magnetic energy that feels like everyone simply decided to have a good time together.

Pssst… On the last Sunday of every month, Rodman hosts a Caribbean-style late brunch — complete with a live DJ — the perfect cure for a long night out. Plus, there are special promos on other days of the week to keep the party going.

Rodman is exactly what we didn’t know we were missing: a place where Caribbean soul meets modern flair, where you can eat late, drink well, and linger a little longer than planned. A spot you’ll want to come back to — just to relive the vibe.

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: November 08, 2025

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