Cocktail bars may serve wine, beer and a traditional Rum n’ Coke, but they offer so much more than that in Montreal. Some of these bars make their own tonic, bitters, Clamato and other ingredients. They all make exceptional traditional cocktails, but most of them have their own renditions of the classics, as well as some of their own mixologist’s specialities! [Image credit: iStockphoto.com/gruizza]
Kabinet and Datcha are actually two adjoining bars in the Plateau on Laurier. Kabinet is more intimate, their décor is an ode to pre-revolutionary Imperial Russia. Datcha has that club-like feel, but from Thursday to Saturday these bars are open as one establishment, but separately the rest of the week. Kabinet is also well known as a coffee shop during the day. Both bars make a great Moscow Mule, and they make their own Clamato for their Bloody Czar.
Le Lab is always bustling, arguably the most popular cocktail bar in Montreal. With one of the city’s largest cocktail menus, they’re known for their cocktail bowls and punches, something a little different than the traditional pitcher. They make their own vermouth, bitters and various syrups such as ginger syrup, tonic, tiki syrup, etc. They add a touch of the theatrical to their cocktail preparation, and their presentation is exquisite. This isn’t the place for a quick drink. Enjoy the show!
Built in 1927 as a hotel tavern, you walk into Dominion Square Tavern and you feel like you’re entering 1920s Chicago, right in the shopping district of downtown Montreal. The plates, glasses and even the washrooms show an unparalleled attention to detail. Their Canadian Old Fashioned is the best in the city, and this cocktail bar is also an English restaurant with some delicious dishes. Unfortunately they’re only open until midnight 7 days a week – we wish they were open later – but be sure to check them out!
Mayfair evokes the romanticism and British elegance of the Victorian era. It’s unlike other bars in Montreal because its décor is modeled after a 19th century English tea room and their menu also has a British influence. Many of their signature cocktails are even infused with tea! Located in the Plateau, this is the perfect spot for a 5 à 7, girls’ nights or to go clubbing after 11pm, when it gets a little rowdy. Our favourite cocktail is the Daisy Twist with rum, Porto, sherry, lemon juice, an infused tea and a dollop of Porto jelly!
This tiki bar located in Chinatown boasts some pretty amazing cocktails! It’s located in a basement that’s only marked by a lit up electric green outline of a pineapple. Fung Shing is the Chinese restaurant upstairs and part of their menu is available at Le Mal Nécessaire below. We love their tiki cocktails that are available in a pineapple or coconut for that Caribbean feel. This fun bar also regularly hosts a Drunken Masters competition amongst the city’s best mixologists.
Montreal is becoming a haven for speakeasy bars. Le 4e Mur is one of those bars, located on St-Denis in the Plateau, hidden behind a fake detective’s office. This clandestine spot brings you back to the Prohibition Era of the United States, right down to the sultry jazz singer on stage. To get the address you have to complete an online form and become a member. Trust us, their long cocktail menu and specialty cocktails are worth the effort.