Fun and entertainment Quebec

The show starts even before the performance begins. The decorative elements that adorn the beautiful hall are reminiscent of the great mythical texts presented by this theatre and are references to the classical repertoire. Under the spotlight, the actors play works by Dumas, Goldoni or Molière. The theatre also houses the Fred-Barry Hall, which is dedicated to more contemporary and emerging plays. A place to discover, why not after a meal in one of the good addresses of this less touristic area.

First a fire station, then home to the Carbone 14 dance troupe, then the Omnibus company, Espace Libre is now occupied by the Joe Jack and John company and the Nouveau Théâtre Expérimental. The place has a hall for large scale shows and smaller rooms, ideal for more intimate evenings of public reading, poetry, small theatre productions or workshops. The Espace Libre is also at the origin of the Comité spectateurs-trice-s project, which aims to introduce selected citizens to the theatre each year.

Since the closing of the Institut des Jeunes and the École des beaux-arts, the center wishes more than ever to assert its role as an artistic presenter, by offering theater, music and film performances, as well as cultural and artistic events for the community. The center is very involved in the transmission of knowledge to the young (and not so young) by offering courses in theater, dance, music, circus and Jewish arts

A multidisciplinary presenter of professional contemporary art, it presents original creations in dance, music, theatre (in French and English), visual and media arts. As the only venue in Montreal to offer such a diverse program, MAI is committed to a mission that promotes intercultural exchange and dialogue in the arts community. Also on the program: post-show discussions, workshops, guided tours of exhibitions, animated events, etc.

A cozy yet relaxed atmosphere where jazz resonates and explores new territories. It goes without saying that the place is very popular during the International Jazz Festival in the summer, but also throughout the year with its amazing program. The kitchen serves decadent burgers, grilled meats and other gourmet dishes. The ideal address for a pleasant evening of music and to discover new and renowned artists.

For over 45 years, the Ligue Nationale d'Improvisation has been an integral part of Quebec's theatrical universe. Every year, the Charade Cup hosts improv matches on a miniature field hockey rink (without ice). The original LNI concept is still as successful as ever, although other forms of play are constantly being proposed. The latest concept is L'Usine de théâtre potentiel, where the spectator chooses the constraints via an interactive platform.

This mythical theatre in the South-West district, inaugurated in 1912, is a historical jewel. Very popular until the 1960s, then threatened with demolition, it has been once again at the heart of artistic life in this district in full transformation. It welcomes musicians-composers-performers, musical groups of all genres, multidisciplinary shows and artists in residence from here and abroad. The programming is quite specialized. Special and private events are also organized there.

Located in the chic neighbourhood of Outremont, the theatre has welcomed within its walls renowned artists such as Félix Leclerc, Paul Piché, Beau Dommage and Diane Dufresne. A launching pad for many singers and a mecca for repertory films in the 1970s and 1980s, the theatre had to close in the late 1980s, before reopening its beautiful doors in 2001. The venue is dedicated to song, music, comedy, theatre and film, among other things. A great idea for a night out, after a drink or a meal in one of the fine restaurants in the area

Housed in the InterContinental Montreal Hotel, this lovely absinthe bar is named after Sarah Bernhardt, Queen of French Tragedy, who gave a memorable performance here in 1880. More than 140 years later, this woman is immortalized here. Absinthe reigns supreme here. For those who will not be tempted by the "green fairy", other cocktails are on the menu, to be accompanied by a selection of Provençal bites finely prepared on the premises. An address to discover for a drink at the end of the day.

Ideally located on the banks of the Lachine Canal, this brand new microbrewery offers a very pleasant setting to spend a good evening with friends. Although the kitsch decoration may not be to everyone's taste, the real asset of this bar is in the relaxed atmosphere that reigns there. And the numerous self-service games are not for nothing. Ping-pong tables, table soccer, arcade games, air field hockey or even board games, the place was created for the children in us to have fun freely. Well, kids who drink (good) beer anyway...

There's nothing like a good craft beer to reward your efforts after a day out in the great outdoors. And it's just the thing, because a great craft brewery set up shop in the village a few years ago. On the menu: house beers such as Juste Sabro, an American IPA, Kiraz, a red cherry sour ale, and Montagne Noire, an oatmeal stout. In summer, La Confrérie's food truck sets up in the beer garden to satisfy both small and large appetites (snack menu also available year-round).

For the record, EtOH is a contraction used in medical and scientific circles to refer to ethanol, a molecule with intoxicating properties so sought-after and present in all alcoholic beverages. On site, about twenty lines of barrels serve delicious homemade nectars as well as beers from other Quebec microbreweries. You'll also find a fine selection of ciders, meads, liqueurs and spirits from Quebec and elsewhere. Sandwiches, a variety of tartars, sharing boards and other small dishes are also on the menu.

A pub devoted entirely to the pleasures of play, with a collection of over 1,000 table games. The concept is simple: pay a small entrance fee, take a seat, and the entertainment team will suggest games according to the knowledge and motivation of the group. What a pleasure to have the rules of the game explained in detail! You can also enjoy a bite to eat on site, with dishes to satisfy both young and old appetites, accompanied by a good microbrewery beer or a signature cocktail.

A charming tavern with a retro look, now the headquarters of the Little Burgundy neighborhood. On offer: a fine selection of scotches, wines, cocktails and beers (including Ste-Q blonde and rousse), as well as snacks and more substantial dishes made with local produce from the Atwater Market, just a few steps away. The atmosphere is friendly, and fans of alternative and progressive indie-rock music will be delighted.

The Ritz PDB moved into the premises of the defunct Il Motore in autumn 2014. Completely revamped, it continues the vocation of its predecessor by hosting independent music groups in its performance space. It has to be said that the owners are steeped in the milieu: Meyer Billurcu is the co-founder of Blue Skies Turn Black, a concert promotion company, and Thierry Amar and Efrim Menuck are members of the famous music group Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Special mention goes to the superb century-old bar, imported from Chicago.

An address in the spirit of Val-David, renowned for its musical shows by established artists, its excellent coffee and its gourmet menu which includes, among other things, good dishes for vegetarians. We recommend without hesitation the poutines for which the house is famous, notably the General Tao poutine, well garnished with succulent crispy chicken. Its terrace near the water is pleasant to have a drink at the end of the day.

The trendy address of La Petite-Patrie, Yïsst (from the word "yeast" in French) has a common denominator: the famous yeast, found in beer, wine and bread, among other things, the stars of the place. First of all, the homemade beer, brewed in collaboration with the Branch in the MaBrasserie's facilities, but also a menu of guest nectars. Then the wine, by the glass or bottle, including some organic wines and a local selection. Finally the bread, like the tasty flatbreads on the menu. Another nice address to try!

The idea here? A nice trip to the Russian capital in pre-revolutionary times. A small, intimate place that is both a café by day and a bar in the evening. Le Kabinet specializes in cocktails, many of which are Russian vodka-based, of course (it's the place to sip an excellent Moscow Mule), and Amaro liqueurs (more than twenty at the bar). From Thursday to Saturday, at 10pm, its neighbour, the bar Datcha, opens its doors and dance floor for an even crazier evening to the sound of the electro music of the moment.

An evening at the Apt. 200 is like being at a friend's house, in a large loft decorated in vintage style. You settle comfortably in the small spaces arranged as lounges with sofas, next to the library, or on the bed in the large bedroom! Billiard table and arcades are available for those who would like to have fun while sipping a drink. The Apt bar. 200 is best known for its lively DJ parties and popular after parties, with a crowded dance floor.

Since 2016, this café-bar has been floating on the waters of the Lachine Canal, a stone's throw from the Atwater Market. Housed in a superb vintage barge, the place is peaceful and intimate: there are only around 30 places available (first come, first served) to enjoy aperitifs, beers, wines, cocktails and tutti quanti. Entirely glazed and open on the sides, with an abundance of flowers, you can sit on a banquette, a little bistro chair or even in the roof terrace area. The setting is definitely worth a try!

To find the entrance to this secret address, you have to look for the little duck as far as the little Saint-Amable street, perpendicular to Saint-Vincent street. This very famous bar in town took up residence in a basement that was a cold room in 1877, hence its name. People come here for the excellent cocktails, the atmosphere and the impeccable service. Building on its success, the speakeasy has opened a new venue right next door: El Pequeño Bar, designed as a "waiting room" when the first one is crowded, transports visitors to Cuba for a drink.

Located in the heart of downtown, this nightclub is frequented by young English-speaking Montrealers, mainly students. The second floor features a large dance floor, two bars, VIP tables and the DJ platform, while the second floor has another bar and a more intimate VIP lounge area. Resident and guest DJs keep the well-prepared crowd dancing into the wee hours to the rhythms of house, R&B, hip-hop, Top 40 and Club Anthems. It's worth noting that the atmosphere can get pretty chaotic at times.

Fans of emerging electro music, you've come to the right place! Located across from the charming Le Sainte-Elisabeth pub, on a small street in the Latin Quarter, this minimalist nightclub presents excellent shows by both Montreal and international artists and DJs. Opened a little less than a decade ago, it is considered by many as the temple of avant-garde electro music in the city. All the programming is available on the website, which also allows you to buy your tickets online.

This friendly café offers a wide range of coffees, to be enjoyed in the dining room or on the terrace, or to take away. The place is warm and inviting, with a number of different objects and artifacts as decoration. At the start of the day, opt for the Brise du Matin (breakfast), served daily until 11am. Then it's on to the à la carte menu, featuring salads, gourmet sandwiches, pizzas on naan bread, mac & cheese and other delicacies. To be accompanied by a Gaspesian beer, of course!

L'Albion produces English-inspired beers (modern, old and forgotten), all brewed according to the rules of the art. Some are also barrel-aged. L'Albion also offers a cuisine section, focusing on local products cooked in the traditional way. Finally, there's a small concert hall where musicians of various styles and other artists frequently perform. New: tasting room and boutique in Sainte-Mélanie.

Installed in the summer of 2013 in the heart of Little Burgundy, this soberly decorated wine bar has captured the hearts of an eclectic clientele. One goes there to discover good natural and organic wines, presented by a team of connoisseurs. In the kitchens, local vegetables are honored, wonderfully highlighted in small plates, conducive to sharing. In summer, the terrace at the back is very pleasant. A very good address for a drink at the end of the day... and more if affinities.

Let's start with a bit of history: yes, Le Bordel did set up its stage in a former brothel. A raw, straightforward encounter between a stage, a microphone and a dense, overexcited audience. Different types of shows are presented, such as the famous Comédie Club (five comedians whose names are revealed on site) or the Open-Mic (comedians come to test new acts). In April 2022, Le Bordel opened a second venue just a stone's throw away (330 Ontario Street East), doubling the fun!

Although there are a few beers and cocktails on offer, the Rouge Gorge's trump card is its excellent selection of world wines, particularly those imported from France. It's an opportunity to share a simple glass by the bottle with friends in a contemporary, convivial and subdued setting, with the expert advice of a very attentive staff. There's also a selection of inexpensive "à la tirette" (i.e. cask) wines to accompany a plate of charcuterie, cheese or oysters. In the basement, the former cocktail bar now offers the same menu as above.

The credo here? Sobriety. The tables are arranged in front of the large openings, the wooden bar spins for several metres, with its twenty or so barrel lines in the background, while works by local artists adorn the walls. The slate displays homemade beers (Pilsner, American Pale Ale, West Coast IPA, Café Rico Breakfast Stout, etc.) as well as nectars from other Quebec microbreweries, but also cocktails, selected wines and spirits for those who love more robust products. On the kitchen side, the chef puts Quebec on your plate by sourcing, as much as possible, from local producers. A great HQ for beer and food lovers!

The jewel of Little Italy, just a stone's throw from the Jean-Talon Market, Birra is a brewery in 2.0 mode. Birra's in-house beers are the result of a unique and resolutely local collaboration: the recipes are developed and brewed on site. All you have to do is enjoy the atmosphere, with a glass of Ginette or Saint-Laurent in hand, inside the establishment or on the sunny terrace. And on Monday evenings, it's music quiz night, a joyful rendez-vous!

One could almost miss the entrance to this bar, which is located in the heart of the entertainment district. Just a few steps from Sainte-Catherine Street, you have to take a small street to be able to take advantage, in summer, of the superb terrace that makes the reputation of the place, surrounded by walls covered with climbing plants and dotted with trees. The atmosphere is very warm and the space, whose decoration is reminiscent of London pubs, is spread over two floors. Always a pleasant place, especially during the day when the bar is less crowded.

Located in Marché Bonsecours, BreWskey is divided into three entities. First, there's the pub on rue Saint-Paul, with its great food(mac & cheese, ribs, etc.), in-house beers and, above all, an incredible selection of whiskies. Then there's the taproom of the craft brewery (rue de la Commune), with some thirty keg lines and a slate of local spirits, all on a beautiful terrace overlooking the Old Port. The annex is the latest addition: a Prohibition-themed boutique and bar (rue Saint-Paul).

Siboire Saint-Laurent, the third Siboire branch to open, is located in a century-old building in the heart of the lively Plateau Mont-Royal district. With a constantly evolving selection of house beers and a varied bistro-style food menu, Siboire Saint-Laurent is sure to satisfy the beer lover in you, and provide a first-rate brewing experience thanks to its unique atmosphere. The big plus: the terrace, which stays sunny for much longer than its neighbors!

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...

A mecca for song, it's known for its Festival en chanson, held every summer. Renowned for its incomparable hospitality, it was supported by some of the biggest names in song when the building burned down in 2017. Pending its planned reopening in 2025, the performing arts have taken up temporary residence in a marquee set up for the cause, as well as in other local venues. We can't wait to see the new installations for the 2025 season!

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.