11 Best Nightlife in Montreal, Quebec

This Czech-themed bar is a favorite hangout of Plateau locals. There's live jazz during the cocktail hour and a DJ or classical performances later in the evening. Try an absinthe-laced apple cocktail from the extensive alcohol menu as you nibble on a few tapas. Bily Kun gets packed, though the high ceilings help alleviate the feeling of claustrophobia.

Small, semiprivate lounges are scattered throughout the two-story complex, and the beautiful rooftop terrace is one of the finest in the Village. Unity is one of the longest running, most popular gay dance clubs in town—although, despite some complaints, you'll often find as many straight girls here as you will gay men. Open weekends from 10 pm to 3 am.

El Pequeño Bar really lives up to its name: the bar seats only nine, it's that small. For all its diminutive size El Pequeño packs a big punch, having been named one of Canada's Top 50 Bars in early 2020, ranking at number 4. Adorned with an ornate glass chandelier, white marble countertops and dozens of Caribbean rum bottles behind the bar, this pocket sized spot is an homage to the 1920s Havana hotel lobby bar. Gifted cantineros (bartenders) specialize in mixing Cubanos and other rum-based cocktails while recounting tales of Ernest Hemingway in his Havana period.

This massive complex houses a bar, restaurant, and dance club popular with both gay men and women. Weekly themed events include hip hop, cabaret, and a Western saloon. The best time to come is during the summer, as the pièce de résistance is the beach-like roof deck with city views and a pool (possibly the hottest destination in the Village).

Named for the street that epitomizes the Mile End, this neighborhood bar has a warm staff, friendly atmosphere, and a great selection of scotch. Owners Richard Holder and Olivier Farley have been in the business for years, and it shows. Nightly DJs provide an edgier vibe, while huge floor-to-ceiling windows make it perfect for people-watching.

No advertised street number. A secret, nondescript back door. Imaginative, award-winning mixologists. A cocktail selection that changes with the seasons. Twists on old classics; think: old fashioned with mezcal. Clear, no-nonsense house rules like:

"Act your age, or you'll be required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian."

"For all make out purposes, may we suggest our next door neighbour The William Grey hotel? Get a room."

And just for the men: "Know your alcohol limits. Stay classy."

"Erase the word 'slut' and 'gay' and any other abusive language from your vocabulary."

"Learn some dance moves. If you need help, ask our manager Dan."

What more could you want in a speakeasy?

Once a men-only establishment, Le Stud has been known to let in some women. A small dance floor and trance music have brought in a whole different crowd. It's packed most nights.

Big brother to Bistro Tendresse, this stylish bar with huge ceiling mirrors that make the space appear twice as large, gets packed in the evenings. Despite its prime location in the Gay Village, Renard appeals to a diverse clientele who love its inclusive, convivial atmosphere, festive happy hours, and signature seasonal cocktails.

If the surprisingly trendy interior and views of rue Crescent aren't a big enough draw, then check out the conspicuous glass humidor housing a seemingly infinite supply of imported cigars. Thanks to being grandfathered in, the bar still allows smoking Cubans on site, despite Québec's tough no-smoking law.

This self-described "hip hop eatery" and neighborhood bar invites you to relax and pull up a chair or cozy couch. Simple but intense dishes like truffle-oil popcorn and a grilled cheese mac-and-cheese sandwich (yes, you read that right) are paired with powerful cocktails (try the signature Wu-Tang) to help make this one of the hottest destinations on The Main—without any of the usual pretension. Open nightly from 5 to 3. They also serve brunch on weekends.

Known for its happy hour, this bar, café, and cigar lounge is elegant but unpretentious—it's the perfect spot for a romantic rendezvous. The selection of more than 150 varieties of scotch, plus an impressive choice of wines, champagnes, and ports, leaves most everyone's thirst quenched.