(514) 276-4282
www.baldwinbarmacie.com
L'Assommoir
With a cocktail list consisting of over 250 creations, L'Assommoir is a sure crowd-pleaser. The two-floor Old Montreal location – a scenic walk away from the Notre-Dame Basilica – provides ample room for parties and large get-togethers. Waiters and bar staff are amicable and willing to answer any question you may have and their musical playlist picks up in the evening. Watch bartenders create your drink of choice – or whatever you let them surprise you with – using fresh ingredients like cucumber, lychee, herbs, and various spices. Great for day or night, they also serve full meals or nibbles like plantain chips, hummus, and homemade salsas. Check out the alternative location on Bernard street.
211 rue Notre-Dame West
(514) 564-8177
www.assommoir.ca
Barraca
Located in the heart of the trendy Plateau, Barraca, a rum and tapas bar, is known for its selection of 55 rums from 18 countries. Over the last decade, this rhumerie has made a name for itself by having what some call the best mojitos in the city. The extensive rum menu is sure to please lovers of the craft. If you aren't a seasoned connoisseur, experiment with their cocktail list and you will soon realize how delicious their concoctions are. Why not try a mojito blend that combines rum, mint, and strawberry puree; or how about a drink that comprises of a hint of coconut or sugar cane to add a festive twist? The bar also serves up Spanish wines along with local and imported beers. Apart from the impressive alcohol menu, they are known for their Spanish-style tapas. Complement your rum beverage with savoury, bite-size dish of marinated olives, chorizo, shrimp, or a charcuterie platter.
1134 avenue Mont-Royal East
(514) 525-7741
www.barraca.ca
Imadake
When I say sake, you say bomb! SAKE! BOMB! This is what you will hear throughout the night at this joint. Referred to as an izakaya (Japanese pub), the vibe at Imadake is dynamic and amicable – where else will an entire bar get involved before watching you take a shot? The decor is vibrant and and the open kitchen in the back is always action-packed. A large, communal wooden table is the centre of attention and adds to the participatory feel. What's more, the charismatic staff look like they came out of an anime series. They also serve mouth-watering bites to complement your Sapporo or Hello Kitty mixed drink, which are a little more sophisticated than your usual pub grub. Go for the beef or tuna tataki, fried octopus, and their popular chicken skins.
4006 rue Saint-Catherine West
(514) 931-8833
www.imadake.ca
