Any good event is likely to bring its fair share of new and inspiring encounters. When you want to keep the chatting going after most attendees have returned to the hotel, take to the streets and explore Montréal’s drink scene — with or without alcohol. Raise your mocktails or classic tipples to say cheers at one of these 10 lovely nightlife venues — all located within a 10 minute walk of the Palais des congrès de Montréal, aka the Montréal Convention Centre.
Le Mal Nécessaire
A modern Tiki bar hidden in the heart of Old Montréal? Yup. From the design to the flavours, Le Mal Nécessaire has it all on point. The tipples are like nothing you’ve tasted. Try the tropically refreshing Chia Fresca (gin, cucumber, coconut water, chia seeds (yes), lemon and Thai basil), or for a booze-free option, the Chicha Morada (Peruvian pineapple punch with purple corn).
Flyjin
Head two blocks south of the convention centre for a Japanese vibe. In the spirit of isakayas, Flyjin serves Japanese snacks (miso baked oysters, anyone?) alongside cocktails that break the mold with their unique Asian inflections. Try the Zen Buddha: a fragrant blend of Korean soju, cucumber juice, mint infused syrup, fresh lime juice and bubbles.
Furco
This former-fur-warehouse-turned-wine-bar is a popular happy hour destination for dishy local lawyers and visiting startup entrepreneurs. The wine card at Furco is adorned with private imports, including organic options, while the menu — hung on a line with clothes pins — focuses on simple, fresh, shareable dishes. Bonus: they take reservations.
Maggie Oakes
Part of the stunning Hôtel William Gray, the stunning marble bar and four-season terrasse at Maggie Oakes are both great spots to enjoy some oysters or a charcuterie platter. The cocktail and mocktail lists are concise but sophisticated. If you’re staying for dinner, the dry-aged steaks balance out with an arsenal of colourful vegetables.
Maison Saint-Paul
An original sabering bar with a long list of private wine imports for all tastes and budgets — and they’ll lend you a sabre to slash open your own bottle. While the essence of champagne may scream posh, the atmosphere at the Maison Saint-Paul is refined, but casual. Fresh and bright, it offers a lively setting to enjoy bubbles any day of the week.
Living Room
A stylish lobby bar at the Marriott W Hotel, Living Room is a great place for an after-conference drink or a pre-dinner drink before you head over the Tbsp. next door. Teetotallers will have three delicious non-alcoholic cocktails to choose from, plus a wide selection of branded drinks. Try the Miami No Vice mocktail: a vacation-vibey mix of Seedlip Spice with a dash of coconut and hibiscus.
Sarah B
The voluptuous absinthe bar — located in the InterContinental Montréal hotel — owes its name to an actress named Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923), considered by many the queen of French tragedy. Select a cocktail and a platter of Provencal bites or reserve the alcoves, which are perfect for small groups.
Modavie
Live jazz, French fare and a delectable selection of mocktails made with fresh squeeze juices and herbs rather than syrups and flavourings: those are the makings of a good night out at Modavie. Peruse the drinks menu as you tap your foot to the live music. We recommend the Limonade à la poire, a delicious drinkable version of a pear drop candy made with fresh pear and lemon juices.
Bistro Brasserie Les Sœurs Grises
Brewed in the heart of Old Montréal for the past decade, the vast variety of beers available range from traditional to delightfully unorthodox. There’s something for every taste at Sœurs Grises and the knowledgeable staff knows how to pair each brew perfectly with each meal they prepare.
Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill
Warm and inviting, Upstairs serves crowd-pleasing dishes (think burgers, seafood, pasta and salads), but it’s the diverse musical menu that really draws the crowds. Visiting jazz enthusiasts and local musicians gather in an intimate setting where they can appreciate a range of styles, from red-hot swinging trumpet solos to wistful piano ballads.
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