Where to find the best happy hours deals downtown?

How do you wrap up a workday the right way, or simply switch gears in the late afternoon? More often than not, the answer is a good happy hour. In downtown Montréal, there’s no shortage of places to meet for a drink, especially when the specials are just as appealing as the atmosphere.

To help you choose, we’ve grouped several downtown spots into three happy hour categories, based on the kind of experience you’re looking for. At each of these addresses, drink specials are part of the experience, whether it’s cocktails, wine, beer, or shareable options.

For cocktail lovers

When you’re in the mood for a well-made cocktail, some spots stand out for their consistency and know-how.

If you’re craving an extra-good margarita to kick off your happy hour, La Cantina is often top of mind. From Monday to Friday, 5 to 7 pm, $10 classic cocktails are on the menu, while $15 mezcal or premium tequila cocktails are also available. Lively, colourful, and easygoing, it’s the kind of place you choose when you just want a great cocktail without overthinking it.

When it comes to properly executed cocktails in downtown Montreal, the Chinese-Peruvian restaurant Chifa naturally earns its place in the conversation. From Monday to Friday, 5 to 7 pm, $5 beers and $10 glasses of wine make stopping by even more appealing. On Sundays, 25% off wine bottles offers a great excuse to enjoy the space, even when cocktails aren’t part of the specials.

Both café and bar, Café de Montreal draws people in with its energy and animated atmosphere. Specials may vary depending on the moment, but it remains a popular meeting point to start the evening around a cocktail, in a setting that feels lively, welcoming, and effortless.

For a refined atmosphere

Sometimes, you’re in the mood for a more relaxed setting, a polished space, and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy your drink.

For an elegant happy hour, La Brasserie Milton offers weekday specials from Monday to Friday, 5 to 7 pm. Enjoy $3 off draft beers and a $10 martini, a classic formula that works perfectly for end-of-day conversations in a calm, inviting setting.

For something a little different, Hiba Bar leans into a refined, Japanese-inspired atmosphere. From Monday to Friday, 4 to 7 pm, happy hour includes discounted cocktails, mocktails, beers, and sake, along with a shareable combo available earlier in the evening, making it an easy choice for lingering conversations.

For an easygoing vibe

When the goal is simple catching up, unwinding, and keeping things easy these spots always deliver.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, reliable happy hour, La Belle et La Boeuf is a solid go-to. From Monday to Wednesday until 7 pm, and all day Thursday, enjoy $7.95 house wine (6 oz), regular beers, and regular spirits. An accessible option that works just as well for winding down after work as it does for kicking off the night.

Want to grab a drink and actually have some fun while you’re at it? Les Trois Monkeys blends happy hour with entertainment, all under one roof, from bowling and laser tag to Lucky Putt and arcade games. Wednesdays are reserved for ladies night, while Thursdays feature $5 simple cocktails, making it easy to relax and let the evening stretch a little longer than planned.

Looking for a place where happy hour starts early and doesn’t end too fast? London Pub delivers one of the longest happy hours around, starting at opening and running until 8 pm on weekdays, and midnight on Thursdays. Whether you settle in at the bar or on the street-level terrace, it’s an easygoing, welcoming option known for its great prices and laid-back atmosphere.