La Banquise
Eating
25
12
There’s nothing more “Montreal” than ending a night of partying with a poutine from La Banquise – even Anthony Bourdain recommends it. Open 24/7, it is where you go to satisfy your post-party munchies. The combination of hot fries oozing with gravy and cheese curds – and whatever else your heart (read: stomach) desires – is what you will find.
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L'Express
Eating
13
5
The checkered floor that spells out the restaurant’s name in front is the sole indication that you have found L’Express. This eatery has been a Montreal staple for over 30 years – even Anthony Bourdain is a fan. Endlessly open and always lively in atmosphere, it’s as if time has frozen and left you in a classic 1920s French bistro.
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Local Experience
Montreal City Brew Tours
Prices from
87
CAD
Duration
3.5 h
Languages
French, English
Big in Japan Bar
Eating
11
3
Big in Japan is unlike any other establishment on The Main’s nightlife scene. Confused passer-bys are often spotted staring with curiosity as its nondescript entrance is nothing more than a crimson-coloured door adorned with Japanese letters. Once past the heavy curtains that surround the space, you will find yourself transported to another era.
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La Distillerie
Bars
16
4
The original of three locations, the Quartier Latin’s La Distillerie is small, yet cozy. Regularly packed, this hotspot picks up on weekends and a lineup begins to form early on into the evening. Seeing groups of friends crowd around the large wine barrels placed in the middle of the bar hoping to snag a coveted window seat is quite common!
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Taverne Square Dominion
Eating
11
1
Hidden just off of Sainte-Catherine street, this isn’t your grandfather’s tavern. Keeping with its old school vibe, its name comes from nearby Dorchester Square, which was called Dominion Square back in the day. Reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties, its ambiance is great for after work drinks or a hearty dinner. They also make a mean Sunday Roast.
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Clock Tower Beach
Bars
17
2
Living in a city definitely has its perks – nevertheless, it also has its drawbacks and it’s no secret that Montreal’s lack of beaches is a problem for locals come summertime. Based on the European trend of creating seaside paradise in the midst of a metropolis, Montreal’s Old Port now has its first urban beach.
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Local Experience
Montreal City Brew Tours
Prices from
87
CAD
Duration
3.5 h
Languages
French, English
Imadake
Bars
10
4
This typical Japanese pub – or izakaya – is known for its animated atmosphere with staff dressed like anime characters serving up sake bombs and appetizer-style food made for sharing among friends. Their colourful wall murals, large communal wooden table in the centre, and action-packed open kitchen at the far back make up the vibrant decor.
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Le Sainte-Élisabeth
Bars
23
6
Difficult to find as it is tucked in a narrow, graffitied alley on the corner of Sainte-Catherine street, Le Sainte-Élisabeth is the literal definition of a hole-in-the-wall. It may look rundown from the outside but once inside, you know you’ve found a gem. Those in the know party here and it is definitely where the locals gather.
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Pullman
Eating
12
2
Head over to this unassuming wine bar, which is discreet enough for an intimate date and trendy enough for a 5 à 7. Their innovative space (with an eye-catching chandelier made of crystal champagne flutes and wine glasses) spans three floors and fills up with a local, after work crowd during the week and stylish 20 and 30-somethings on the weekend.
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Café Milano
10
2
Established in 1971, this neighbourhood café is reminiscent of a traditional Italian bar. Perpetually busy and always lively, order at the front counter and take a seat as you wait for your food to be delivered in the form of your name being yelled out by the barista. In summer, patrons flock onto the terrace, which remains occupied into the night.
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Bily Kun
Bars
4
1
If you’re looking to spend the evening on Mount-Royal Avenue, paying a visit to Bily Kun (which translates to white horse) is definitely a must. Its inviting decor goes a long way with dim lighting, high ceilings, and great seating options – that is before it fills up. Don’t be startled by the row of ostrich heads on the wall gazing down at you!
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Vices & Versa Bistro Du Terroir
Bars
6
4
From their 30+ beers on tap from Quebec and elsewhere to their beatific terrace this place can't be beat. Open late every night it's a great place to have long chats with your friends. The food is great as well. Not a large menu but delicious rotating specials and a decent Poutine.
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Terrasse Nelligan
Eating
10
2
While tourists swarm on ground level in this neck of the woods, the fifth floor of the hundred-year-old Hotel Nelligan is filled with a trendy local crowd. We all know that Montrealers love their terraces and Terrasse Nelligan has taken it up a notch so that you can experience one from up high.
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La Sala Rosa
Bars
9
4
Referred to as the “The Red Room,” La Sala Rosa has become an institution in the local Spanish community. With traditional decor made up of bright red curtains and flamenco dancer frames adorning the walls, its intimate ambiance is amplified by the crimson hue emitted once candles are lit. Thursday nights are popular as they put on a flamenco show.
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Lawrence
Bars
9
3
If Lawrence was a Montrealer, they’d be a mix of the Mile End hipster and an Englishman with plenty of charm. Owned by a passionate crew, it isn’t uncommon to spot them working alongside wait staff. From weekend brunch (with a lineup that spills onto the sidewalk) to dinner, the menu is always filled with ingredients that stem from local producers.
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