Montreal bars shine on Canada’s 50 Best Bars 2026 list, led by Cloakroom Bar at No. 1
Posted April 28, 2026 8:00 pm.
Last Updated April 28, 2026 9:16 pm.
Let’s make a toast — Montreal’s cocktail scene is once again in the national spotlight, with eight local bars named among Canada’s 50 Best Bars 2026 — including a return to the top of the rankings.
Cloakroom Bar
Canada’s Cloakroom Bar has claimed the No. 1 position this year, moving up from second place in 2025 and earning the title of Best Bar.
The intimate 25-seat cocktail destination in Montreal’s Golden Square Mile is known for its no-menu concept, where drinks are tailored to each guest.
Founded in 2015, Cloakroom has built a reputation as one of the country’s most influential cocktail bars, helping define Canada’s modern mixology scene.
Atwater Cocktail Club
Montreal’s presence on the list extends beyond the top spot, with Atwater Cocktail Club ranking seventh nationally after placing fifth last year.
Located in Saint-Henri near Atwater Market, the neighbourhood bar is known for its evolving cocktail menu and focus on handcrafted ingredients.
Bar Numéro
“Bar Numero” also made its debut at No. 17, marking a new entry for the city.
Located in Little Italy on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, the bar brings a 1970s-inspired design and a contemporary cocktail program to one of Montreal’s growing hospitality corridors.
Bisou Bisou
Bisou Bisou climbed significantly to No. 24, up from 47th in 2025.
Hidden in Old Montreal, the apéritif-focused bar is built around lower-alcohol drinks, sherry, vermouth and Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
Bar Bello
Bar Bello ranked 30th, rising from No. 39 last year.
The Little Italy cocktail bar is inspired by Italian aperitivo culture, with a strong focus on amaro, vermouth and shareable cicchetti-style dishes.
The Coldroom
The Coldroom placed 32nd after ranking 19th last year.
Tucked behind an unmarked door in Old Montreal, the bar is known for its hidden entrance and historic setting inside a building dating back to 1877.
Bar Dominion
Bar Dominion entered the list at No. 37 as a new addition.
Located downtown, the venue reimagines a historic space originally opened in 1927 as part of the Dominion Square Hotel, blending classic cocktail culture with a modern gastropub feel.
Le Majestique
Le Majestique rounded out Montreal’s presence at No. 40, returning to the list after previous appearances in 2020, 2023 and 2024.
The Saint-Laurent Boulevard staple is known for its lively oyster bar atmosphere and late-night energy, staying open until 3 a.m.
National competition remains strong
While Montreal had a strong showing, Toronto continued to dominate the rankings, with Bar Pompette taking second place and Civil Liberties placing fourth. Vancouver, Calgary and other cities also featured prominently across the top 50.
Other notable award winners included Best Hotel Bar (Library Bar at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto), Best Wine Bar (Missy’s This That in Calgary) and Best New Bar (No Vacancy in Toronto). Vancouver’s Keefer Bar also earned Bartender of the Year honours for Kate Chernoff.
A growing national cocktail culture
The 2026 list highlights a competitive and evolving cocktail landscape across Canada, with Montreal maintaining its position as one of the country’s key hospitality hubs.
From hidden Old Montreal speakeasies to high-concept neighbourhood bars, the city’s entries reflect a mix of innovation, tradition and experimentation that continues to shape its reputation on the national stage.
