Montréal is a city of unique neighbourhoods, and three of the coolest up-and-coming areas are grouped together as the Quartiers du Canal: Griffintown, Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy. Named for the Lachine Canal, which runs alongside the three boroughs, the Quartiers du Canal are home to a vibrant scene of startups and innovators — plus some of the city’s most exciting event spaces sure to elevate your next event.
From retro chic to trend-setting modernity
The neighbourhoods of the Quartiers du Canal have a long history of working-class ingenuity and creativity. Populated by Irish immigrants who played a major role in building Montréal’s infrastructure and industry, Griffintown has since grown into a multicultural neighbourhood with sleek new condo towers next to refurbished factory spaces that house galleries and design-savvy boutiques. Neighbouring Saint-Henri was historically nicknamed “Les Tanneries” due to the local artisanal leather tanning shops there, and has blossomed into one of Montréal’s most exciting neighbourhoods, driven by a youthful populace with ground-breaking ideas. Last but not least, Little Burgundy was home to many of Montréal’s canal-side factories — now repurposed as stylish office spaces, arts centres and bistros — as well as the city’s legendary jazz scene, with both Oliver Jones and Oscar Peterson learning their chops in the neighbourhood.
Today, these constantly innovating neighbourhoods boast event venues that will leave your attendees gawking. Here are 10 great choices, ranging from remodelled factories to ultra-modern galleries.
New City Gas
950, rue Ottawa
Built in 1849, the historic New City Gas site has been hosting a wide variety of shows, business events, art exhibitions and the splendid Mediterranean restaurant Bazart since 2012. The venue can accommodate over 3,000 people, and the indoor and outdoor spaces are ideal for all types of events. The on-site team of professionals offers turnkey services to organize flawless events, from ideation to realization.
ALT Hotel Montréal
120, rue Peel
One of Griffintown’s premiere accommodation choices, the ALT Hotel Montréal also offers brightly-lit meeting spaces with spectacular views for 10 to 180 guests in style. Rooms are stocked with multimedia equipment and comfy seating, and the Terrace is a perfect choice for an outdoor event for up to 50 attendees — who’ll also love the comfort of an on-site room.
Beanfield Theatre
2490, rue Notre-Dame Ouest
The iconic Beanfield Theatre has been at the heart of Little Burgundy since opening in 1912. A concert venue popular with indie rock lovers, the interiors of this converted historic movie theatre add dramatic flourish to any event. It’s a multi-faceted venue that’s great for presentations, cocktail events and even banquet sit-down dinners — a true gem by the canal.
Arsenal Contemporary
2020, rue William
A truly jaw-dropping arts space with top-notch programming and 80,000 square feet of wide-open spaces, Arsenal Contemporary is a converted 19th-century shipyard that’s hosted trendsetting events like C2 Montréal and screenings by the Massimadi Film Festival.
L’Ambroisie
4020, rue Saint-Ambroise
Right on the banks of the Lachine Canal, L’Ambroisie is more than just a waterside bistro specializing in French cuisine. While the dining room is available for events for up to 120 people, the stunning Canal Room holds up to 275 seated and also includes access to the 3,000 square foot terrace.
Entrepôts Dominion
3968, rue Saint-Ambroise
Built in 1899 as a cotton mill warehouse, the Entrepôts Dominion offers three rooms that can be used separately or together, either as empty spaces or with turnkey assistance from the on-site planning assistant. In addition to the Loft, there’s the Large Room (max capacity of 550) and the Small Room (max of 150).
Darling Foundry
745, rue Ottawa
The rooms of the Darling Foundry combine industrial distress chic with vanguard art to create unique spaces well suited to lend originality to any gathering. The Main Gallery offers 4,000 square feet (370 m2) and 38 foot (13 m) ceilings, while the Small Gallery offers 1,800 square feet (180 m2) and the option for an artwork rental and installation service drawing from the foundation’s collections.
Restaurant Le Richmond
377, rue Richmond
A local favourite for foodies and happy hour-lovers alike, Restaurant Le Richmond is the perfect spot for group dining, unwinding and casual networking. The restaurant can be rented for groups of up to 180 people in cocktail formation, while the terrasse offers space for up to 90 guests — rent them together or separate.
Terrasse St-Ambroise
5080, rue Saint-Ambroise
Created by the McAuslan brewers, the Terrasse St-Ambroise offers stunning open-air views over the Lachine Canal towards one of Montréal’s most iconic vistas. Featuring locally brewed beers, shade-giving umbrellas and unforgettable atmosphere, Terrasse St-Ambroise is available for group bookings of 50 or more.
Le Salon Richmond 1861
550, rue Richmond
Constructed in 1861 as St. Joseph’s Church, Le Salon Richmond 1861 has long been a cornerstone of the Little Burgundy neighbourhood, and few venues quite so epic for a memorable banquet or cocktail. Le Salon Richmond 1861’s event hall maintains the grandeur of the chapel with full technological capacities for cutting-edge presentations.
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