Top Bars in Montreal – Most Viewed (2025)

Tucked above Fugazzi Pizza in Montreal’s Pointe-Saint-Charles neighborhood, Milky Way Cocktail Bar offers an immersive experience that blends cosmic design with masterful mixology. As you ascend the twinkling, neon-lit staircase, you're transported into a vibrant space featuring a vaulted glass ceiling, lush hanging plants, and glowing walls that create an otherworldly ambiance. The bar's interior, designed by the acclaimed Gauley Brothers, showcases polished marble counters, velvety green banquettes, and chevron-patterned floors, all contributing to its chic yet welcoming atmosphere. This attention to detail extends to the cocktail menu, which features tropical-inspired drinks crafted with house-made syrups and garnishes. Signature offerings include the "Bon Pour le Moral," a blend of coconut vodka, blue curaçao, elderflower liqueur, dark rum, and citrus, and the "Disco Pisco," served in a disco ball glass for a playful twist. Beyond cocktails, Milky Way provides a full food menu in collaboration with Fugazzi Pizza, allowing guests to enjoy gourmet pizzas and homemade pastas in the bar's celestial setting. The establishment operates on a first-come, first-served basis, accommodating groups of up to six, and maintains a strict 18+ policy. Open daily from 6 PM to 3 AM, it's the perfect spot for an intimate date night or a lively evening with friends. Recognized in The World’s 50 Best Discovery list and ranked among the top 500 bars globally, Milky Way Cocktail Bar stands out as a must-visit destination in Montreal's vibrant nightlife scene.

Tucked behind an almost invisible facade on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Big in Japan Bar is a masterclass in understated speakeasy design. At first glance, it appears as just another door on the street. Push past the curtains, and you’re transported into an intimate world of soft shadows, low lighting, and whispers. The bar layout itself is U-shaped (or “labyrinthine”), wrapping guests around the bartenders who serve from the “trunk” of the formation. What sets Big in Japan apart is how it combines Japanese spirit culture with cocktail craft and moody ambiance. Rows of hanging whisky bottles (many Japanese) suspend above the bar. The drink menu leans heavily into whiskies, sake, umeshu, cognac, and carefully composed cocktails. The house also pairs minimal snacks — things like chips & salsa, roasted pecans, kimchi, or tuna tataki — to complement rather than distract from the drinks. As for the mood, Big in Japan is all about contrast: the hush of velvet drapes, a glowing sea of candles, the subtle echo of stirring spirits. There’s no loud music or flashy theatrics — everything is calibrated for close conversation and discovery. Design-wise, the space strikes a delicate balance between elegance and mystery. The owners and designers preserved some original bar elements while introducing tactile textures, drapery, and suspended light installations made from spirit bottles. Because it’s discreet and popular, it’s best to arrive early. The bar’s hidden entrance is part of the charm — many first-time visitors pass by without noticing. It’s a place for whiskey nerds, cocktail lovers, and people seeking nights that unravel slowly.

Opening its doors in October 2008 under mixologist Fabien Maillard, Le Lab combines old-school speakeasy vibes with modern mixology flair. Located on Rachel Est (corner Lanaudière), the intimate bar features dark, moody décor—think wood booths, vintage barware, and bartenders in vests and ties wielding flair and fire. The drink menu is extensive and inventive, featuring over 250 spirits and clever signature cocktails: try smoky BBQ sauce–whiskey blends like the "Jerky Lab Jack", tropical punches like "Kamala Beach", or tea-tinged creations like "Sugar Mamy". The bar focuses on house-made syrups, fresh juices, and premium ingredients, often with theatrical flair shows—bottle-spinning, fire pours, marshmallow toasting, and more. Le Lab also offers a seasonal, comfort-food–inspired menu (dinner Mon–Sat and lunch Tue–Fri), including bao buns, mac'n'cheese, dumplings, ginger-glazed salmon and gourmet grilled cheese—each dish carefully crafted to pair with cocktails. Expect casual dining and bar seating, with a smart-casual dress code and a warm, conversational atmosphere. With consistent tips for “best drinks you’ll ever have”, intimate size, creative offerings, and a dash of showmanship, Le Lab delivers a unique and memorable experience. It’s ideal for a date night, bar enthusiasts, or those in search of theatrical craft cocktails in a friendly, neighbourhood setting.

Since opening in 2015, The Cloakroom Bar has quietly earned its reputation as Montréal’s most refined cocktail experience. Located in the prestigious Golden Square Mile, the bar is concealed behind Maison Cloakroom’s menswear boutique—guests wait by a mirrored wooden panel before being escorted through a discreet secret door that opens into a dimly lit 25‑seat sanctuary. Once inside, you won’t find a menu. Instead, bartenders engage you in a brief conversation about your preferences—flavor profiles, spirit base, mood—and create a tailored cocktail using rare vintage amari, bourbons, house‑made tinctures, and hand‑carved ice. Whether you prefer smoky, fruity, classic, or adventurous, your drink will be unique and precise. Cloakroom is consistently ranked among the best bars in Canada (recently #2 in Canada’s 100 Best and #31 in North America’s 50 Best Bars, 2025), lauded for its craftsmanship, attention to detail, and pure cocktail artistry. The ambiance is elegant and intimate: dark wood, marble countertop, globe‑style lighting, and plush seating cloak the space in classic sophistication. At times you may wait to get in, especially on weekends, but the discreet, curated experience is well worth the patience. Service is knowledgeable and refined—bartenders like Jay, Simon, Vincent, and others guide you toward drinks that delight and surprise. While the personalized touch remains strong, some recent guests note that the interaction is now streamlined: a few quick key questions instead of extended conversations. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just looking for a memorable night out in Montréal, Cloakroom delivers a precise, refined, and personalized experience—one of the city’s most beloved hidden bars.

Le Mal Nécessaire—literally “necessary evil”—is more than a cocktail bar; it’s a sensory experience anchored in Montréal’s Quartier International. Just steps from Square Victoria and the Palais des congrès, this bar occupies a dynamic new home after a decade in Chinatown. Spanning around 4,000 square feet, the space opens into plush velvet booths, lounge areas, and an expanded dance floor primed for nightly DJs that keep the energy flowing until the early hours. From the moment the lights dim, the mood is intimate yet magnetic—modern furnishings, lush decor, and smooth beats set the tone. Signature cocktails—like the tiki‑inspired Coco Supremo, served in a cracked coconut, and the fiery Piña Fuego, delivered in a flaming pineapple with avocado‑pit falernum—are made for both Instagram moments and true cocktail aficionados. Beyond its inventive tipples, Le Mal Nécessaire stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The team is devoted to minimizing waste by extracting every drop of flavor from ingredients and composting the rest—a philosophy that gives your experience a creative, eco-friendly soul. Whether you're after engaging nightlife, a sultry lounge vibe, or complex cocktails in a thoughtfully curated setting, Le Mal Nécessaire delivers on all fronts. It’s a destination for night owls, design lovers, and cocktail explorers alike.

Tucked down a graffiti-adorned back alley behind Foiegwa, Atwater Cocktail Club opens through an unmarked red light and an unassuming door—inviting patrons into a world of midnight glamour. Inside, the decor balances kitsch and elegance: mirrored ceilings reflect candlelight across patent silver banquettes, while dark walls heighten the sense of drama. Since launching in 2016 as a venture by the Barroco group, the bar has established itself as one of Montreal’s most charismatic cocktail destinations. Its ambition is clear: creativity, authenticity, and hospitality are at the core of every element—from the design to the drink formulas. Cocktail craftsmanship here is thoughtful and avant-garde. Standouts include “Fall Effect”—a refreshing fusion of blanco tequila, mezcal, aquavit, lime, celery, and coriander—and “40 Thieves”, an unforgettable rye-based concoction with lemon, pineapple, tahini, and sesame oil. The bar's recognition spans beyond local acclaim. It has been listed among North America's 50 Best Bars—coming in at No. 50 in 2024 and climbing to No. 36 in 2025. Food lovers will appreciate its generous bar bites sourced directly from Foiegwa—expect colonial favorites like escargots, truffle fries, pasta, frog legs, and bone marrow, all perfect companions to the cocktails. The vibe is relaxed yet electric. With about 70 seats in a stylish, dimly lit space, the bar feels intimate. Its popularity means walk-ins only—with no reservations or guest lists—to keep the playing field even and the mood cozy. In short, Atwater Cocktail Club is a consummate experience: lush, imaginative, and warmly unfussy—a hidden jewel in Montreal’s cocktail landscape.

Step into El Pequeño Bar — arguably the smallest bar in Canada — tucked away in Old Montreal’s cobblestone charm. In a space of just about 141–160 square feet with capacity for only 9–11 guests, this Cuban-inspired hideaway revives the golden age of Havana tourism. Its design nods to the 1920s with exposed brick, marble counters, and a glamorous chandelier that makes every inch feel magical. Beneath its intimate ceiling resides a surprisingly rich drink menu. Expect Cuban classics like the Mojito, Daiquiri, Rum & Coke, and El Presidente, alongside original cocktails featuring dark rums, maraschino, orange, and citrus notes. The cocktail prices remain approachable, averaging around $11 USD. Despite limited space, the bar leaves little to be desired in hospitality: bartenders are known to craft off-the-menu drinks, chat lore, and make every visit personalized and memorable. A standout fixture? Their singular food offering—the Cubano sandwich—is deeply praised for its crispy, juicy perfection. Even Condé Nast Traveler calls it a “knockout”—paired beautifully with their combined drink menu. It’s the kind of place where people linger—even standing shoulder to shoulder—drawn in by charm, cocktails, and conversation. Reviews glow: “The mojitos were amazing … Jackson was a great bartender … The hurricane and watermelon mojito … were made stupendously!” In essence, El Pequeño Bar is less a night out and more an embrace: a tiny, warm space where Cuban spirit meets Montreal hospitality, one expertly made drink (and sandwich) at a time.

Nestled in Old Montréal behind a plain, handleless black door, ring the bell marked “Patience” and descend into The Coldroom—a speakeasy that transforms a former cold storage cellar into a charming cocktail sanctuary. The low ceilings, exposed brick, wood beams, and concrete elements pay homage to the building’s industrial past while creating a snug, clandestine atmosphere. Inside, sharp-eyed bartenders curate an evolving menu of cocktails blending classic sensibilities with daring twists. Standouts include the savory Kingfisher (Citadelle gin, Lustau sherry amontillado, Cocchi Americano, caper brine, turmeric) and the fizz-light Japanese Highball with Toki whiskey, lemon zest, and soda. Creative specials like the “Death Mark”—a chocolate‑peppermint spiral of cognac and amaro—and playful concoctions like Rice to Meet You (Jamaican rum, sake, passionfruit, tamarind, toasted rice orgeat) reveal an imaginative approach to mixology. More than just cocktails, The Coldroom draws its charm from its exclusivity and vibe. Its entrance is nondescript; one rings the bell and waits to be escorted in—a ritual that sets the stage for the experience. Inside, cozy nooks invite hushed conversation and people-watching—rarely have a discreet hangout and celebrity hotspot intersected so seamlessly. Hollywood heavyweights like Bruce Willis and celebrities from all creative realms have been spotted within these walls. Service matches the setting—knowledgeable, dedicated, and efficient bartenders elevate your visit, often crafting bespoke cocktails off-menu based on your preferences. Linger over whiskey on Wednesdays—special “Whisky Wednesday” pours are priced per ounce at cost, a nod to enthusiasts. Whether you’re craving secret-agent intrigue, masterful libations, or intimate ambiance with a dose of surprise, The Coldroom delivers. It’s a moody oasis for connoisseurs and curious night owls alike—where every visit feels like a sip of something special.