Liam TrudeauThe 11 best dive bars in Montreal for cheap drinks and back-to-back hits
The formula for the perfect night out is pretty simple: good drinks, good company, and good music to dance to. But if you’re tired of the usual go-to, these top dive bars in Montreal will change the way you think of partying.
This list features some of the city’s staple dive bars and quintessential icons that we’re pretty sure should be Montreal landmarks by now.
We’ve been to each of these places and can confidently say they’re worth sharing—no more gatekeeping the fun.
So, if you’re ready to drink affordably and have the craziest night of your life, dive in!
1. Bar Notre-Dame-Des-Quilles
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Address: 32 Rue Beaubien E
Contact details: +1 514-757-7415
Operating hours: Tuesday – Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Friday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Housed in Little Italy, Bar Notre-Dame-Des-Quilles has earned its title as one of Montreal’s most iconic dive bars. This iconic spot is a go-to for the city’s eclectic crowd, offering a queer-friendly atmosphere where everybody is welcome to party.
With two bowling lanes tucked into the space, people inside are usually cheering on with drinks in hand.
Plus, the jukebox is loaded with deep Dolly Parton cuts that set the right mood for a night-long karaoke session.
If manly and crowd-heavy bars aren’t your scene, this spot is the perfect alternative. It’s still energetic with the music and chatter but definitely more “chill” in terms of the overall ambiance.
Just take note: it’s cash-only, which might feel old-school. Though, if you don’t mind, it somehow fits the vibe of this unpretentious dive.
2. TRH
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Website: https://www.trh-bar.com/
Address: 3699 St Laurent Blvd
Contact details: Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
TRH, affectionately dubbed Trash Bar, is a one-of-a-kind dive bar that feels straight out of a gritty 90s skate flick. The centerpiece? A skate bowl right inside the bar, where skaters show off their tricks as the crowd cheers them on.
The dance floor is small but often fills up with a lively crowd grooving to hip-hop beats. There’s even a smoke machine to amp up the club vibe.
The bar also serves up cheap alcohol, including $10 pitchers that keep the fun flowing without breaking the bank.
TRH draws a young crowd, mostly in their 20s. While the spot is fun and energetic, we recommend women come in groups or with someone they trust, as the crowd can get rowdy.
If that sounds like your vibe, it’s a nice, edgy spot to unwind.
3. Nacho Libre
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Website: https://www.barnacholibre.com/
Address: 913 Rue Beaubien E
Contact details: +1 514-273-6222
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Sunday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $$
Nacho Libre is where ’90s nostalgia meets Mexican flair. The bar is decorated with swing chairs, vintage toys, and a marlin sporting a luchador mask—because why not?
You’ll also find classic Nintendo games in the back and vintage commercials playing on large screens that add a playful throwback vibe.
Their menu is small but mighty. It features crowd favourites like the Triforce nachos (seriously, don’t skip them!) and shareable burritos and quesadillas.
You can pair your meal with one of their creative cocktails or a cold beer from their solid selection to complete your night.
Food prices are reasonable, too. Although the drinks might be slightly pricier than at typical dive bars, they won’t keep you up at night.
4. Taverne Cobra
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Website: https://www.tavernecobra.com/
Address: 6584 St Laurent Blvd
Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 8:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
From the moment you walk into Taverne Cobra, the eclectic decor grabs your attention. The walls are covered in old toys, video cassettes, and pop culture memorabilia straight out of a retro fever dream.
The vibe feels like a quirky mix between a Bangkok night market and a tequila-fueled arcade. And yes, it might get packed, but that’s part of the charm.
Karaoke enthusiasts will love this spot, featuring nightly sessions that keep the bar buzzing. The crowd is lively and inclusive too, with both English and French songs filling the air.
But if singing isn’t your thing, you can grab a seat at the bar and sip on reasonably priced drinks. You can also people-watch as the action unfolds.
Just note that it’s cash-only, but there’s an ATM on-site in case you need it.
5. Bar Courcelle
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Website: https://www.bardecourcelle.com/
Address: 4685 Notre-Dame St W
Contact details: +1 438-382-4685
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 3:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Known for its open mic nights and live music performances, Bar Courcelle is a hub for locals and visitors alike. The rustic, old-brasserie ambience makes it a great place to catch a Sunday band or enjoy 90’s hip-hop on Tuesdays.
The drink menu keeps things simple. Classic beers are always on tap, but their Dark ‘N Stormy cocktail adds a nice touch for something more elevated.
If hunger strikes, you can nibble on pub bites like paninis or chilli with your cold brew.
Bar Courcelle also has a dog-friendly terrace during the summer, where even your furry friends are welcomed with a bowl of water.
And being an inclusive spot, it’s LGBTQ- friendly and welcomes everyone to enjoy its space.
6. Bar La Remise Inc
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Address: 540 Rue Boucher,
Contact details: +1 514-272-0206
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Sunday: 2:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Tucked away on a quiet backstreet near Laurier Station, Bar La Remise Inc. is the quintessential Montreal dive bar. You’ll spot it by the quirky neon sign glowing through plumes of cigarette smoke.
Once inside, the bar’s warm lighting and vintage touches give it a “Moe’s Tavern” feel straight out of The Simpsons.
Add a pool table, foosball, and even a boxing machine, and you’ve got the perfect playground for laid-back fun with friends.
As for drinks, the prices are hard to beat. At $6.25 for a big bottle of Belle Gueule, it’s a steal in the city.
And if you’re in the mood for some entertainment, Friday and Saturday karaoke nights are a hit. But if you’re planning something special, you can book private karaoke sessions on other evenings.
7. Barfly
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Address: 4062 St Laurent Blvd
Contact details: +1 514-284-6665
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 4:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Barfly is a Montreal staple for those who love their dive bars with a side of live music. This small spot is all about cheap pints and an awesome lineup of live acts ranging from rockabilly to bluegrass.
The prices of their drinks won’t break the bank, making it easy to grab a pint and hang out without worrying about your wallet.
There’s a pool table up front for some laid-back fun. In the back, you’ll find a terrace for those warm summer nights.
However, the bar can get crowded on weekends due to its small size. If you prefer a less-packed space, we recommend visiting during the early hours on weekends.
8. Bar Biftek
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Address: 3702 St Laurent Blvd
Contact details: +1 514-844-6211
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 2:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
If you’re looking for cheap drinks and a laid-back vibe, Bar Biftek has you covered. Known for its affordable pitchers of Boréal and no-frills rye shots, this classic dive bar is the spot for anyone who values good times over glitz.
The dark and cosy interior is perfect for a casual evening, while the front-facing window offers a prime view of the street outside.
Plus, one of their best-kept secrets is the free popcorn. Yes, you can just grab a drink and enjoy their free treats.
And while you won’t find a fancy cocktail on their menu, the simplicity of its beer and mixed drink options keeps things easygoing. Just bring $20, grab a pitcher, and let the good times roll.
9. Rockette Bar
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Address: 4479 Saint Denis St, Montreal
Contact details: +1 514-845-9010
Operating hours: Saturday – Tuesday: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic night out, Rockette Bar is the place to be.
Tucked in Le Plateau, this retro dive is famous for its throwback music and energetic vibe. Whether you’re into rock or pop, the tunes will have you dancing all night long.
Despite its cosy size, the bar attracts young and lively crowds. However, it’s not just for the under-30s—patrons of all ages also create a welcoming atmosphere.
Other than that, the drinks are cheap by Montreal standards. The cover charge is reasonable, and it includes a coat check for those cooler nights.
10. Beaubien Brewery
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Website: https://www.brasseriebeaubien.com/
Address: 73 Rue Beaubien E
Contact details: +1 514-495-8141
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 3:00 PM – 3:00 AM | Sunday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Beaubien Brewery is known for hosting live performances, ranging from experimental jazz trios to emo revival bands. Whether you’re into experimental jazz or country guitar, Beaubien’s is one of the best venues to catch up-and-coming talent.
The bar itself has a vintage charm and a no-nonsense atmosphere that keeps the focus on the music and good times.
The space may be small, but it has just the right amount of character. There are pool tables, a jukebox, and a dance floor that all add to the dive bar ambience.
11. Mad Hatter Pub
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Website: https://madhattermtl.ca/
Address: 1240 Crescent St
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Price: $
Mad Hatter Pub is a classic dive bar that has everything you need for a casual night out. Known for its inexpensive cocktails, local beers on tap, and pub grub, this spot is perfect for a laid-back hangout with friends.
The service is friendly, and the bartenders are welcoming. However, it can be a bit slow when the bar gets crowded.
Plus, the drinks are generously poured, with crowd favourites like the 1L cocktails that are great for sharing.
And if you’re into karaoke, you’re in luck—it’s a Thursday night staple here. This makes the atmosphere undeniably fun, with an underground feel that’ll make you want to let loose.
