Fun and entertainment Montreal

In a neighbourhood where bars are not legion, the Palco reverses the trend. The place is beautiful, all white, black and wood dressed. White light bulbs and subdued lighting in the evening, mezzanine, small space for various services and a fairy-tale inner courtyard. Homemade cocktails, microbrewery beers and privately imported wines are popular, as is the gourmet menu (some vegetarian and vegan options). The beautiful socio-cultural program and the atmosphere make this neighbourhood bar a very pleasant place for exchanges and gatherings.

We can't ignore the breathtaking decor of Blossom, all signed by designer Guillaume Ménard: a futuristic Japanese atmosphere in the middle of which is flanked by a beautiful cherry tree in bloom. In the glass, the largest selection of sakes in Montreal from private importation as well as wines and cocktails, while on the plate, we bet on the concept of Handroll Bar with a menu that honors the country of the Rising Sun (makis, dishes to share, etc.). Sophisticated and exotic to the max!

Open since May 2017 in the upscale Mount Stephen Hotel, the Bar George immediately seduces with its sumptuous décor rich in woodwork and simply magnificent architectural details. In this historic setting, you can sit down with friends or talk "business" with a glass of wine or a cocktail in hand. For lunch and dinner, the address offers an English-inspired menu featuring Quebec products. The weekend brunch is well worth the detour, accompanied by a mimosa, Bloody Caesar or English coffee. A chic address!

The name of the bar leaves no doubt: kitsch decor - without going overboard - and vintage, extravagant rum-based cocktails and Polynesian-inspired cuisine revisited are here to be found. No need to fly south to feel out of place, the atmosphere there will do the job! Originally located in Little Italy, the bar has moved to a hidden room in the Idole bar. It regularly hosts theme evenings and special events. Optional Hawaiian shirt, or not!

A small cousin of the Dominion Square Tavern and the Balsam Inn, this beautiful two-story neighborhood bar offers a slate focused on privately imported wines, many of which are natural and organic, and house cocktails, as well as a few beers from Quebec microbreweries. A gourmet menu inspired by Portugal is also offered with, among others, fresh oysters, roasted octopus, cod brandade, batata au gratin, Portuguese sandwiches... without forgetting the famous pasteis de nata. A place to discover for a gourmet happy hour.

Tucked away in the British Empire Building (late 19th century), Tommy Café wows anyone who sets foot inside. A beautiful historical stamp with mouldings galore, huge windows and an impressive ceiling height, different levels, nooks and crannies, greenery, mismatched chairs, carefully chosen objects... The result is superb! Both a café and a bar, it is as much an address for early risers in search of caffeine and a good croissant as for colleagues who want to have a drink after work.

The team behind this micro-torreactor strives to source its supplies from the source by visiting one of its producers every year. It also carries out private imports and collaborates with cooperatives in different coffee-growing regions of the world. The criteria are simple: no pesticides or chemical fertilizers, and a fair wage for the producers. The nectars can be discovered in one of the Saint-Henri cafés, via the online shop or in one of the many points of sale. Courses are also offered to the general public.

On the banks of the Lachine Canal, an unattractive vacant site has given way to this open-air bar adjacent to the Canada Malting silos. On site, there is an ice cream food truck as well as Café Malté offering cold brew nitro coffees, homemade iced tea and all the typical classics of a^3rd wave type café. You can also grab a bite to eat (pizza, salmon tartar, etc.) and have a drink. A lot of parties with DJ, musical shows and other festive events are organized there. A top address!

Born as a street truck, this popular micro-torreactor now has three branches. The emphasis is definitely on coffee and everything related to it in this uncluttered premises. Here, everything from the bean to your cup is done responsibly and fairly, and the team is happy to discuss and even demonstrate. Bags of coffee beans or ground coffee are also available for home use. The place also serves all sorts of goodies to get you in the mood.

When you enter, you'd think you were in a plant store; that's normal, that's the case. In addition to being for sale, the numerous plants create a particularly cosy atmosphere in this hybrid place. Bachata classes, openings, live model classes or open-mic nights, the events follow one another. The rest of the time, it's simply a café where it's always pleasant to come and rest. And on Sundays it's brunch day, with music please! A jazz concert is played for the occasion, in the middle of the plants...

Who would have thought that a band of Quebec acrobats playing stilts in Baie-Saint-Paul would end up creating the Cirque du Soleil in Montreal, revolutionizing the codes of the traditional circus? From success to success, from colourful acrobatics to technical prowess, the troupe is today one of the oldest representatives of the modern circus. While its creations, ever more beautiful and crazy, enchant audiences all over the world, the Cirque has not forgotten its origins and presents at least one show in the city every year.

The café, opened in 2022, has already undoubtedly its place in the neighborhood. The retro decoration is composed with second hand furniture. The atmosphere is soft and warm. The menu presents many creations to drink as varied as original such as the coconut coffee or even the mango coffee. The sweet snacks are unfortunately not made on the spot but they come from Montreal pastry shops and bakeries. You can spend a pleasant moment in one of the sofas, surrounded by plants and antiques.

Part grocery store, part café, part refreshment bar, the place imagined by Lara and Dimitry has become an essential landmark in the life of the neighborhood. Open non-stop, people drop in both to stock up on great local produce and to enjoy the adorable surroundings. Breakfast is served in the morning, followed by sandwiches for a quick lunch break, then hot drinks, fresh juices and sweet treats. On Fridays, Super Boogie DJ set evenings are organized where natural wines and microbrewery beers share the spotlight with the turntables.

The all-wooden hall can accommodate more than 2,000 spectators on several levels of balconies. Since 2021, the talented Venezuelan conductor Rafael Payare has taken over the musical direction, he offers a rich repertoire with multiple influences. Several concerts are also broadcast digitally, a low-cost alternative. The orchestra also organizes events outside of its walls, and when the weather is fine, it doesn't hesitate to take over different places in the city.

The National Monument is Canada's oldest performing arts venue. The building is now owned by the National Theatre School of Canada and hosts part of the NTS festival. The site has several performance halls (Salle Ludger-Duvernay, Studio Hydro-Québec...) and multiple spaces (the Salon rouge, the café...) for various events ranging from theatre to music, humour and dance. An exhibition space is dedicated to the presentation of photography, painting, drawing and print media practices in contemporary art.

This craft brewery in Old Rosemont brews more than fifteen beers: Czech Pilsner, Kölsh, Weizen, IPA, Porter, Imperial Stout... The slate also displays some imported brewery jewels, ciders, several whiskies and gins, wines and cocktails. For the little ones, the menu puts the emphasis on regional products. We love the impressive ceiling height, the furniture built by a local cabinetmaker and the superb custom-made painting by artist Renaud Hébert. A beautiful place where you want to put down roots!

The inhabitants of the district and the thirsty bièrophiles for novelties welcomed this first artisanal brewery of the south-east of the island, opened in 2012. On the menu were homemade beers and a fine selection of Quebec beers that changes with the seasons. The warm place also hosts various events and exhibitions. Good to know: you can find some of their beers in cans (produced all year round) and limited editions in bottles (brewed once a year).

This hop headquarters opened its doors on the site of Marguerite d'Youville's original religious congregation, the Grey Nuns. It serves a range of draught beers, all brewed on site, as well as wine and cocktails. On the food side: quesadillas, tacos, tapas and comfort food (hot-smoked salmon, crispy chicken burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, ribs with BBQ and maple sauce) or plates to share for a touch of conviviality.

The ultimate speakeasy experience. Out of nowhere, a member of the family greets visitors and seats them in this tiny, dark room. There's no menu here. The bartender on duty asks several questions and concocts tasty cocktails, inspired by the tastes and desires of each guest. A dream place for those wishing to escape noisy happy hours, this secret bar has only a few seats and the music volume is simply perfect. In short, it's a no-brainer!

It is a French couple who opened this café which quickly became a comforting place for all the inhabitants. She is in the kitchen and he is at the counter. The homemade pastries and cookies are created according to inspiration and are always a hit. Cookies, cheesecake, scones... just like grandma's! Sandwiches and savory snacks are also prepared daily. Sit down at one of the tables in the room (or on the terrace) and you'll probably see all the regulars from the neighborhood coming in for a coffee or a chat.

Just outside the offices, this bar in Old Montreal with its clean style is full of colleagues who meet there for happy hour. They come here to drink a beer, nibble on a plate of deli meats or a plate of Quebec cheeses, just enough time to remake the world after a hard day's work. Some people go there in the evening, with friends, to drink a cocktail or a glass of wine and discuss the hours leaning at the bar or comfortably seated on a couch. A friendly and relaxed atmosphere and a cheerful service.

In Old Dublin there are nearly thirty cask beers and 200 scotches and whiskies, including some "single malt" aged around thirty years. During the day, the place is mostly frequented by business people, but in the evening, students and young professionals take over the pub to chat over a drink and a burger and listen to the music bands that play there almost every day of the week from 9.30 pm. Enjoy your meal... and cheers!

Its name reminds us of a small neighbourhood bar, but make no mistake about it, Buvette Chez Simone is at the cutting edge of fashion. This old-fashioned name appeals to the clientele of young professionals who like to get together outside the office for a friendly happy hour, a good glass of wine in hand, and a few snacks to nibble on the table. The prices are not cheap, but the atmosphere makes up for it. In the evening, the atmosphere is resolutely bistro-resto, friendly and cheerful, with plates for all tastes. In short, a neighbourhood classic to try!

Located on the second floor, Stogies welcomes a business clientele in their 30s. From the top of the terrace, you can watch the surrounding crowd come and go on a street where the main activity is relaxing in a bar from 5pm. A glassed-in room holds plenty of cigars, and the martini menu boasts no less than 101 different choices, plus an impressive selection of scotches. Customers can also bring their own cigars. Note that the prices are not inflated and are retail prices.

Located in the heart of Old Montreal, in the magnificent historic building of what was the first Stock Exchange in Canada, the Centaur Theatre has been presenting plays in English since 1969. In addition to its regular annual programming, it also hosts the Wildside Festival and children's series, among others. Classical or more contemporary plays, with a large place reserved for Quebec creations and emerging artists, Centaur Theatre entertains with a selection of innovative and contemporary works.

Founded in 1957, Les Grands Ballets has never ceased to open up new territories for dance lovers from near and far. The artistic direction of the company is oriented towards a classical repertoire with iconic and timeless shows such as The Nutcracker or Carmen, but also superb modern creations. The place also has studios where à la carte dance classes are given for all levels.

Ideally located in the heart of the Village, on lively rue Sainte-Catherine, the Olympia is a superb concert venue housed in a former 1920s theater. Daniel Bélanger, Isabelle Boulay, Ariane Moffatt, Alain Souchon, Feist, Eminem and Chilly Gonzales (to name but a few!) have performed in this multi-purpose venue with its warm acoustics, hosting performances in all styles, from comedy to music to theater. Contemporary shows in a historic venue that has retained all its character.

La Maison Théâtre is the only theatre in Montreal that specializes in shows for young audiences (children and teenagers). The works presented are classified by age group, to facilitate the selection of those that will suit a particular audience. Created in 1984, the Maison Théâtre brings together an association of nearly 30 theatre companies from all over Quebec, and keeps a watchful eye on the development of theatre for young people. It also offers other activities (parent-child workshops, meetings, etc.).

A bistro with a contemporary decor that contrasts with the more traditional establishments in the area. You can sit down at the large bar to remake the world over a good glass of wine, beer (a selection of Quebec microbrews), or a more than respectable cocktail. The ambiance has a je-ne-sais-quoi that makes you want to spend more than one evening there. The gourmet menu is well worth the detour, with platters to share, tartars and gravlax, mac & cheese and other delights. An address that perfectly illustrates the growth of the Old Rosemont district.

Spread over three floors, the Pullman welcomes its guests in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. It shares a common passion: the love of wine and all that goes with it. The wine bar offers over 400 wines on its menu, mostly available by the bottle. Enough to make wine lovers happy! To accompany your glass, the bar offers tasting platters (charcuterie, cheese, salmon gravlax, etc.), savory and sweet amuse-bouches, and bistro-style dishes.

The decoration, designed by Zebulon Robert Perron of Materia Design, gives an air of refinement and good taste in a friendly and unpretentious space. The alcohol list is well stocked, including signature cocktails, scotches, wines and bubbles. Appetizers are also available, such as duck rillettes, salmon gravlax, a plate of charcuterie (organic Charlevoix meats) or cheese (3 types of cheese). When summer arrives, its pretty back terrace, green and far from the noise of the avenue, becomes the place of predilection.

With its pleasant atmosphere, charm and enviable geographical location, Quai des Brumes has become one of the most popular entertainment bars in French-speaking Montreal. Open on the sidewalk of Saint-Denis Street, it is impossible to miss the urban wildlife that sits there without interruption. You will find a great diversity in the choice of groups coming to perform there. We are sure we will never be alone. You will also be able to enjoy excellent visual, literary, poetic or musical performances (complete online programming).

Created in 1979, this puppet theater has a long history of artistic creation behind it. The performances, mainly for young audiences, are exceptionally inventive. The creative studio is a haven for artists and independent companies who present their art in this intimate venue. Each year, a show is created that takes into account every detail of the staging.

The Agora is an important place for creators, spectators, students, teachers and presenters of contemporary dance, and likes to accompany choreographers on a long-term basis. National and international performances, some of which are aimed at young audiences, are presented in a hall with a variable configuration. Now housed in the Wilder building in the heart of the Quartier des spectacles, it shares space with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, the École de danse contemporaine de Montréal and Tangente, making it a major centre in the world of choreography.

Flash back to the 1960s: the flashing neon lights on the facade of this neighbourhood cinema, as well as the small ticket booth, instantly transport us into Happy Days. Winner of the 2004 Jutra Award for Best Exhibitor in Quebec for its support of Quebec cinema, Cinéma Beaubien screens French-language auteur films from here and abroad. Several events are organised throughout the year, such as the "Les Aventuriers voyageurs" programme, travel films followed by a conference.

The fine team behind the project could not have chosen a better location for their gastropub: the Pourvoyeur is in the heart of Little Italy and the Jean Talon market, one of the liveliest and most gourmet places in the city. And it would be a shame not to try one of the house dishes. Also to be discovered: the very large selection of gins that is the specialty of the place. The list is (very) long and original. A neighborhood pub with a great festive atmosphere day and night. Another address on the Fleury promenade.

La Tulipe, the little sister of Le National, hosts events and shows several evenings a week in this beautiful heritage building (former Dominion Theatre). Its Saturday dances delight the nostalgic of the 1980s, while Fridays beat to the rhythm of the best hits from 1990 to today. The atmosphere is festive in this place that the French seem to particularly appreciate. The "C'est extra" evenings regularly feature the great classics of French music (and it's free!).

In a small street that doesn't look like much, the Furco has set up its penates in what used to be a fur shop. Behind the glass front and its light Bar Furco inscription, a crowd of people enjoy happy hour. The stylish space, both raw and sophisticated, invites you to sit down for a drink or even a tasty meal. The atmosphere rises a notch in the evening and really makes you want to stay there. The place welcomes DJs and shows. A well-kept secret and praised by the regulars.

Careful, the door of that cafe is a time machine... Heading back to the 1950s with its plastic furniture, kitsch lamps and various gadgets. A small, simple and efficient address for lunch, with a large choice of croques, grilled cheese and sandwiches, served at the counter. The place is also conducive to a work session with a hot drink because the atmosphere is not too noisy. Good to know: events are sometimes organised on site. A real little neighbourhood address without fuss.

A place with a very interesting concept. At the beginning of the evening, the premises serve as a restaurant serving tasty Asian-influenced dishes with a bar offering a wide selection of Japanese whiskies, sake, wines and exclusive Japanese beers. But as of 11pm, it's a whole different story! The lighting and the sound atmosphere metamorphose, the tables and chairs are subtly set aside to make way for a beautiful dance floor... where the crowd rushes in! A beautiful evening in two parts.

Opened in 2017 by three young women, this cooperative is a breath of fresh air in the western part of Hochelaga. The social café offers simple, good and fairly priced drinks and small dishes. It regularly hosts events in association with neighbourhood organizations. The mismatched furniture and the children's play area make the place particularly welcoming. The team is committed to making everyone feel good... and it's a success!

Here is an unpretentious, artisanal brewery that reflects the growth of the Mile End neighbourhood. The HELM, for Houblon-Eau-Levure-Malt, encourages the local economy by relying on Quebec's local products: artisanal beers brewed almost exclusively with local grains and hops; good small dishes such as poultry rillettes, burgers or poutines. The décor, both raw and sophisticated, the large central bar and the subdued lighting make the HELM a convivial place, conducive to discussion and encounters.

Le Cheval Blanc is the first brewery to obtain a brewer's licence, in 1987. In addition to brewing excellent beers and offering a fine selection of privately imported beers, the place offers a special place for emerging artists. Shows, launches and exhibitions of works by local artists are among other things part of the program. In addition to being culturally active, the brewery emphasizes regional products in the design of its menu. A true Montreal institution!

Restaurant, bar and terrace. On two floors, this bar-disco will delight salsa lovers. Several schools send their students. It is not uncommon to see shows improvise. From Wednesday to Saturday, Brazilian evenings, salsa and cha.

A relaxed but relaxed atmosphere where jazz vibrates, explore new territories. Very popular during the Jazz Festival. Excellent restaurant restaurant on site.

A concert room with a stamp. Created in 1903, then abandoned in 1982 and restored in 1992, the architecture of the Capitol is remarkable. In the heart of the city, concerts, shows, theatre plays, but also events and conferences are organised.

Consult the "Arts and Performances" section of Le Soleil newspaper, the Saturday supplement of the Journal de Québec, Québec-Scope, and the See Quebec Edition, to be aware of what is happening in town.

Two halls, Louis-Fréchette and Octave Crémazie, host high-quality and varied performances: dance, theatre, music, opera, varieties.

Hockey games with all the desired atmosphere in a huge room, we must say it! On top of the shows and concerts, the big sizes do their show.

The "Dag", as the regulars say, is the meeting place of the birds of night ready to trémousser all night to the sound of music. And what music!