{"id":14713,"date":"2025-03-17T13:56:18","date_gmt":"2025-03-17T17:56:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/montrealcentreville.ca\/?post_type=what-to-do&p=14713"},"modified":"2025-03-17T14:08:30","modified_gmt":"2025-03-17T18:08:30","slug":"hidden-gems-where-to-find-the-best-speakeasies-in-downtown-montreal","status":"publish","type":"what-to-do","link":"https:\/\/montrealcentreville.ca\/en\/what-to-do\/hidden-gems-where-to-find-the-best-speakeasies-in-downtown-montreal\/","title":{"rendered":"Hidden gems: Where to find the best speakeasies in downtown Montreal?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Behind unassuming facades\u2014sometimes 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\u2014lie some of downtown Montreal\u2019s most captivating bars<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\u2014from the moody lighting<\/strong> to the artfully crafted cocktails<\/strong>\u2014invites escape.<\/p>\n

Montreal\u2019s best-kept secrets are worth the hunt, and once inside, the ambiance and mixology<\/strong> make it all worthwhile. Ready to uncover these hidden hideaways? Here are 5 must-visit speakeasies in downtown Montreal.<\/p>\n

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Gokudo<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

To step into Gokudo\u2019s intimate world, you first have to pass through a modest Japanese restaurant, Ry\u014dshi<\/a>. Behind this unassuming fa\u00e7ade lies an exceptional cocktail bar<\/strong>, inspired by Tokyo\u2019s hidden speakeasies. Once you slip past the black curtain, the atmosphere shifts entirely\u2014dim lighting, deep green leather banquettes, and shelves lined with Asian artifacts set the stage for an enchanting escape.<\/p>\n

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<\/strong> awaits, from delicate temakis to rice bowls topped with fresh fish. A sensory journey<\/strong> through Japan<\/strong>\u2014right in the heart of Montreal, no passport required.<\/p>\n

\"Le<\/p>\n

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Sans Soleil Bar<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

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

A discreet staircase leads you into a dimly lit world where vinyl reigns supreme. Every night here is a full sensory experience\u2014expertly crafted cocktails<\/strong>, a steady flow of sake, and an atmosphere that shifts effortlessly between intimate and electric.<\/p>\n

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

\"Dancers
Sans Soleil Bar – @djmickeyperez<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Le Mal N\u00e9cessaire<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

For those who know where to look, a subtle clue glows above the stairs\u2014a single illuminated pineapple<\/strong>, the only sign pointing to this hidden tropical bar<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Step inside, and Le Mal N\u00e9cessaire unveils a world where exotism meets elegance. Inspired by modern tiki bars<\/strong>, the space blends velvet banquettes, dim lighting, and lush greenery, creating a warm, inviting setting where cocktails are meant to be savored.<\/p>\n

Here, every creation is designed to surprise\u2014served in sleek glassware or straight from a hollowed-out fruit, these tiki-inspired drinks<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"Le<\/p>\n

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Le Cloakroom Bar<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

Behind an unmarked door, tucked inside an elegant Golden Square Mile townhouse, Le Cloakroom Bar embodies the very essence of a speakeasy<\/strong>\u2014discreet, refined, and truly one of a kind.<\/p>\n

Here, there\u2019s no menu<\/strong>. Every cocktail is a bespoke creation<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

The space is intimate and moody<\/strong>, 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\u2014feeling like you\u2019ve uncovered one of Montreal\u2019s best-kept secrets.<\/p>\n

\"Bartender
@thecloakroombar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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N sur Mackay<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

Just steps from Concordia University, Le N sur Mackay is the kind of speakeasy where you instantly feel at home<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Its 1920s-inspired decor\u2014soft lighting, cozy banquettes\u2014sets the stage for an intimate yet unpretentious atmosphere<\/strong>. No need to dress to impress here; it\u2019s all about kicking back with a well-crafted cocktail or a perfectly poured whiskey in a laid-back setting.<\/p>\n

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\u2019re in the mood for something livelier, drop by on a Tuesday\u2014comedy night<\/strong> turns the bar into a hub of laughter<\/strong> and good vibes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Amber
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