Hidden gems: Where to find the best speakeasies in downtown Montreal?

Behind unassuming facades—sometimes hidden behind a black curtain at the back of a Japanese restaurant, a discreet door at the bottom of a staircase, or a glowing pineapple symbol—lie some of downtown Montreal’s most captivating bars.

Rooted in the Prohibition era, when secret entrances masked the illicit flow of alcohol, these hidden gems now offer an experience like no other. Stepping into a speakeasy means immersing yourself in a dimly lit, intimate setting where every detail—from the moody lighting to the artfully crafted cocktails—invites escape.

Montreal’s best-kept secrets are worth the hunt, and once inside, the ambiance and mixology make it all worthwhile. Ready to uncover these hidden hideaways? Here are 5 must-visit speakeasies in downtown Montreal.

Gokudo

To step into Gokudo’s intimate world, you first have to pass through a modest Japanese restaurant, Ryōshi. Behind this unassuming façade lies an exceptional cocktail bar, inspired by Tokyo’s hidden speakeasies. Once you slip past the black curtain, the atmosphere shifts entirely—dim lighting, deep green leather banquettes, and shelves lined with Asian artifacts set the stage for an enchanting escape.

Here, every cocktail is a masterclass in balance and precision, blending sake, infused gin, or nori syrup with bright citrus and floral notes. To complement the drinks, a curated selection of refined bites awaits, from delicate temakis to rice bowls topped with fresh fish. A sensory journey through Japan—right in the heart of Montreal, no passport required.

Sans Soleil Bar

To find Sans Soleil, you first have to step into Fleurs & Cadeaux, a charming Japanese snack bar in Chinatown. But the real secret lies below.

A discreet staircase leads you into a dimly lit world where vinyl reigns supreme. Every night here is a full sensory experience—expertly crafted cocktails, a steady flow of sake, and an atmosphere that shifts effortlessly between intimate and electric.

What starts as a moody cocktail bar slowly transforms into a temple of sound, where impeccable acoustics and a sharp, vinyl-only music selection take center stage. A hidden gem that captivates both cocktail lovers and music aficionados alike.

Le Mal Nécessaire

For those who know where to look, a subtle clue glows above the stairs—a single illuminated pineapple, the only sign pointing to this hidden tropical bar.

Step inside, and Le Mal Nécessaire unveils a world where exotism meets elegance. Inspired by modern tiki bars, the space blends velvet banquettes, dim lighting, and lush greenery, creating a warm, inviting setting where cocktails are meant to be savored.

Here, every creation is designed to surprise—served in sleek glassware or straight from a hollowed-out fruit, these tiki-inspired drinks are as stunning to look at as they are to taste. The experience is immersive, transportive, and leaves you with the feeling of having uncovered a well-kept secret… one you’re tempted to keep to yourself.

Le Cloakroom Bar

Behind an unmarked door, tucked inside an elegant Golden Square Mile townhouse, Le Cloakroom Bar embodies the very essence of a speakeasy—discreet, refined, and truly one of a kind.

Here, there’s no menu. Every cocktail is a bespoke creation, crafted on the spot to match your tastes and mood. The bartenders, true artisans of their craft, masterfully balance flavors and spirits, turning each visit into a one-of-a-kind experience.

The space is intimate and moody, reminiscent of a private club from another era, with a marble-topped bar and dim lighting that casts a warm, golden glow. A place you enter out of curiosity and leave utterly enchanted—feeling like you’ve uncovered one of Montreal’s best-kept secrets.

N sur Mackay

Just steps from Concordia University, Le N sur Mackay is the kind of speakeasy where you instantly feel at home.

Its 1920s-inspired decor—soft lighting, cozy banquettes—sets the stage for an intimate yet unpretentious atmosphere. No need to dress to impress here; it’s all about kicking back with a well-crafted cocktail or a perfectly poured whiskey in a laid-back setting.

Far from the overly polished cocktail bars, this spot draws both spirit enthusiasts and those just looking for a warm, welcoming escape after a long day. And if you’re in the mood for something livelier, drop by on a Tuesday—comedy night turns the bar into a hub of laughter and good vibes.