Chill out at these 15 quiet bars in Montréal
Bars and pubs Bars and nightclubs
While this city excels at high-energy nightlife, quiet bars in Montreal offer a uniquely refreshing escapes. Intimate atmospheres where conversation flows easily, minimal distractions, thoughtfully designed spaces, and curated drink selections—they’re the kind of spots that allow guests to unwind and savour the moment, whether they're with friends or enjoying a peaceful evening alone.
Stanley
Stanley offers a contemporary experience in a sleek, modern space. Its bar’s classic and signature cocktails alongside the restaurant’s blend of locally inspired dishes makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, but quiet nights are great here when considering the variety of seating available.
1201, boul. René-Lévesque Ouest
Pub Cartier Arms
Cartier Arms transports guests to a bygone era with its decor and ambiance inspired by the golden age of the railroad, offering a unique blend of Québec and British influences. Overlooking the historic Gare Viger, the restaurant’s lively atmosphere is an ideal complement to its contemporary dishes and meticulously crafted cocktails.
621 rue Notre-Dame Est
Restaurant Bivouac
Bivouac offers a striking and expansive terrace with an unmatched view of the bustling Quartier des spectacles. Whether you're enjoying the lively summer ambiance or retreating to the warmth of heated dome tents in winter, the setting fosters a perfect balance of urban energy and serene relaxation with drinks.
1255, rue Jeanne-Mance
Oskar Terrace
While the lounge bar at Le Saint-Sulpice combines historic charm with contemporary comfort thanks to a serene setting, its terrace during the summers invites guests to relax in a sun-drenched spot framed by lush gardens. The drinks are classic and easy here with a rotating selection of signature creations.
414 rue Saint-Sulpice
Bily Kun
Bily Kun’s unique atmosphere is both quirky and inviting, with its iconic ostrich heads adorning the walls and a blend of jazzy 5 à 7 events and DJ nights adding character. Heading here earlier in the evening provides a quiet spot to enjoy an extensive beer selection and a warm, relaxed vibe.
354 Mont-Royal Avenue Est
Bar Plan B
Its name implies being a reliable backup for a reason: Plan B offers a relaxed and warmly inviting atmosphere, where the carefully curated decor sets the tone for an unpretentious yet refined experience. The thoughtful selection of wines, whiskies, and house cocktails complements the understated charm of this cozy spot.
327 Mont-Royal Avenue Est
Else's
The ambiance at Else's is undeniably inviting, with its dim lighting and eclectic decor creating an enveloping sense of comfort and calm. Surrounded by charming details like vintage art, soft candlelight, and the story of its Finnish founder, it feels like a hidden retreat from the city’s usual bustle.
156 Rue Roy Est
Isle de Garde
Isle de Garde offers a selection of beers brewed on-site with a focus on balance, simplicity, and authenticity. Inspired by German, Czech, and English brewing styles, the drinks here cater to those who appreciate classic, thirst-quenching beers with refreshing flavors in a calm spot.
1039 Rue Beaubien Est
Commodore
Located in the HONEYROSE Montréal Hotel, this is a great spot for cocktails and a robust wine list, making it ideal for unwinding after a day downtown. The chic ambiance offers a refined setting to enjoy a drink, whether you're stopping by before a show or rounding out an evening on the town.
355 De Maisonneuve Blvd. West
N sur Mackay
N sur Mackay charms with its skillfully crafted cocktails and welcoming bartenders. The understated venue is all about coziness, offering a space perfect for enjoying a refined drink with those who appreciate a quiet atmosphere—it can get boisterous here, however, if the night is right.
1244 Mackay Street
Bar Kabinet
With its nod to the elegance of a 1970s Parisian brasserie, Kabinet offers an inviting atmosphere, complete with refined French dishes and a thoughtfully curated wine list. The vintage-inspired décor and intimate, sophisticated ambiance make it an ideal spot to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail or glass of wine in a calm setting.
98B Avenue Laurier Ouest
Bar Henrietta
Henrietta blends the charm of a traditional Portuguese tavern with Montréal's laid-back vibe, featuring old-world natural wines and hearty snacks. It's great for an early quiet drink or conversation, right before the bar truly comes alive with its lively late-night scene.
115 Avenue Laurier Ouest
Rouge Gorge
The inviting Rouge Gorge promises sensational wines, thanks to the careful thought the owners have put into their vintages. If you get peckish, you can choose from a delicious menu of tapas and small plates.
1234 Mont-Royal Avenue Est
Maison Boulud
The bar at Maison Boulud offers an elegant, intimate atmosphere within the Ritz-Carlton, a place that exudes sophistication with a vibrant character. Patrons can enjoy finely crafted cocktails at its bar while experiencing the refined essence of French and Mediterranean cuisine if they so choose.
1228 Sherbrooke Street West
Maggie Oakes
This Old Montréal chophouse looking out onto Place Jacques-Cartier is great for a bite, but it’s even better for drinks at its bar that runs the length of its dining room. Enjoy martinis and other classics and enjoy people watching—guests here come from all over the world.
426 Place Jacques-Cartier
Original article in English by JP Karwacki, adapted into French by Francis Rose.
JP Karwacki
JP Karwacki is a Montréal-based writer and journalist whose work has appeared in Time Magazine, the Montreal Gazette, National Post, Time Out, NUVO Magazine, and more. Having called the city home for over a decade and a half, he regularly focuses on spreading the good word about the amazing things to eat, drink and do in Montréal. One half raconteur and the other flâneur (with just a dash of boulevardier), when he wasn’t working on the frontlines of the city's restaurants and bars, he spent his time thinking about, reading about and writing about restaurants and bars.