3 Best Bars in Downtown, Montreal

The Dominion Square Tavern, which closed in 2020 much to the disappointment of Montréal epicureans, has been resurrected as Dominion Bar. The beautiful space carries with it a lot of Montréal history. Originally part of the Dominion Square Hotel, built in 1927, the bar was for many decades reserved exclusively for men, as was common in Québec with venues designated as taverns until the practice was outlawed in 1986. Today, the elegant locale is first and foremost a bar mixing classic and reimagined cocktails and stocking a good selection of beers and wines. However, Bar Dominion is also known for its raw bar, small plates meant to share, and mains such as cheeseburgers, duck confit, ribs, and steak frites (steak and fries).

After more than two decades this two-story venue on the corner of boul. St-Laurent and rue Prince-Arthur is still a fixture on the Montréal club scene. The 25-35 crowd loves it for its electric energy, excellent service, on-point drinks, and DJs who play a great mix of original artists and the best hits that keeps the party going late into the night. Dress code: no ripped jeans, no tracksuits or sweats, no shorts, no basketball shoes. Be sure to secure your spot on the guest list for priority access, via the website.

A Montréal institution for almost a century (it opened in 1927), Taverne Midway has lived through a lot over the years. In its latest incarnation, Midway is one of the trendiest bars to be found at the eastern end of Downtown, with exposed brick walls, wood flooring, and warm Edison bulbs attached to industrial-style wall sconces. It also features an extensive list of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a small but appealing selection of finger foods.