Montreal Pub Crawl (City): Afternoon of Craft Beer 2024
A Pub Crawl Through Montreal: Savoring the Best of the City’s Pubs
Montreal, a city with European-inspired architecture, charming streets, and a vibrant pub culture, is one of the best destinations for a leisurely pub crawl. Whether you’re a local looking to explore the neighborhood or a visitor wanting to experience the city’s diverse drinking scene, Montreal offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication in its pubs and bars. From cozy Irish pubs to Belgian-inspired brasseries, the city has something to offer everyone.
If you’re in the mood for an afternoon of relaxation, good drinks, and great company, look no further than this curated pub crawl, designed to guide you through some of the best-rated pubs in Montreal. This crawl will take you to six lively stops, all within walking distance from each other, for an unforgettable afternoon filled with delicious brews, hearty food, and the contagious energy of the city’s pub culture. So, let’s raise a glass and dive into this detailed journey through Montreal’s top pubs!
The Magic of Montreal's Pub Culture
Montreal's pub culture is steeped in history and tradition, but it also boasts an exciting modern twist. The city itself is a beautiful blend of old-world European architecture and contemporary influences, making it an ideal setting for its thriving social scene. The French influence is undeniably strong in the city, and this is reflected in its relaxed yet vibrant pub atmosphere. Locals, known as Montrealers, take pride in their bars, and the neighborhood pub is often the heart of social gatherings.
From traditional Irish pubs to chic craft beer havens, Montreal’s drinking establishments cater to a wide variety of tastes. The city is especially known for its craft beer scene, with a growing number of local microbreweries offering inventive new brews. Meanwhile, the classic pubs provide the perfect setting for live music sessions, hearty meals, and refreshing drinks.
Montreal’s relatively compact layout and walkable streets mean that you can enjoy an afternoon of pub hopping without needing to travel far. Whether you're in the downtown core, the historic Old Montreal district, or the lively Plateau Mont-Royal, each neighborhood has its own unique bar culture, providing you with an authentic Montreal experience.
Start Time: 2:00 PM – Let the Pub Crawl Begin!
Your pub crawl starts at 2:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely pace, sip on your favorite drinks, and explore some of Montreal’s finest watering holes. We’ll start in the downtown area, where the pubs are not only vibrant but also easy to access for both locals and tourists alike.
Stop 1: McKibbin’s Irish Pub (Bishop Street)
Your adventure begins at McKibbin’s Irish Pub, located on Bishop Street in the heart of Montreal’s downtown core. This lively Irish pub is a favorite among both locals and visitors and is the perfect place to get the pub crawl started on a high note.
History and Atmosphere: McKibbin’s has built a reputation for being one of Montreal's most authentic Irish pubs. It exudes the charm of an old-school Irish tavern with its dark wood interiors, vintage décor, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you're here to chat with friends or simply relax with a pint, McKibbin’s provides a welcoming space to start your afternoon of pub hopping.
Drinks and Food: A staple of McKibbin’s menu is its wide selection of beers on tap, including classic Irish brews like Guinness, Smithwick's, and Kilkenny, as well as a variety of craft beers. The pub also serves a variety of traditional Irish pub fare, including hearty dishes like shepherd's pie and fish and chips. Pair your drink with one of these comforting meals to start off your crawl on a delicious note. The cozy ambiance and welcoming staff will set the tone for the rest of the day.
Live Music: McKibbin’s is also known for its live music sessions, so if you're lucky, you might catch a local band playing some classic Irish tunes or folk music, adding to the pub’s lively and authentic atmosphere.
Stop 2: Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill (Rue de la Montagne)
Just a short walk away from McKibbin’s, you'll find Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill, an English-style pub on Rue de la Montagne that brings a taste of the UK to Montreal. With its inviting atmosphere and hearty food options, it’s the perfect next stop.
History and Vibe: Ye Olde Orchard is a favorite among locals for its classic pub vibes. The establishment’s traditional décor, with its dark wood accents, warm lighting, and comfortable seating, makes it feel like a cozy getaway in the middle of the city. The pub’s charm lies in its laid-back vibe, making it a great spot to relax after your first stop at McKibbin’s.
Drinks and Food: One of the standout features of Ye Olde Orchard is its impressive selection of ciders and ales. The pub offers a range of local and imported draft beers, including their signature house-made ciders. The food menu features a variety of hearty pub fare, from the beloved fish and chips to the ever-popular shepherd's pie. If you're feeling adventurous, try one of their mouthwatering poutines, a Montreal classic. The comforting atmosphere and delicious food make this a great place to take a break and savor your next drink.
Stop 3: Hurley’s Irish Pub (Crescent Street)
Next up, head to Hurley’s Irish Pub on Crescent Street, one of Montreal's busiest nightlife areas. This beloved pub offers a lively atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in the city's vibrant energy.
History and Vibe: Hurley’s Irish Pub is a well-established Montreal watering hole with a reputation for its lively ambiance. The pub is a classic spot for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its welcoming Irish-inspired décor and buzzing atmosphere. Whether you're coming in for a quiet pint or to enjoy the lively social scene, Hurley’s has something for everyone.
Drinks and Entertainment: At Hurley’s, you’ll find a wide selection of Irish whiskeys and beers on tap, along with a cocktail menu filled with both traditional and creative drinks. What sets Hurley’s apart is its regular live music, which adds an extra layer of fun to the pub experience. Whether it's acoustic folk, indie rock, or classic Irish tunes, the live performances create an exciting environment that’s perfect for your pub crawl.
Food Options: The pub also serves a variety of hearty meals, including sandwiches, burgers, and other classic pub fare. Try their famous fish and chips or their tender Irish stew to keep you going as you enjoy the lively sounds and the bustle of Crescent Street.
Stop 4: Benelux Brasserie Artisanale (Sherbrooke Street West)
Now it’s time for a change of pace as you head to Benelux Brasserie Artisanale, located on Sherbrooke Street West. This Belgian-inspired brewery is a gem for beer lovers, offering some of the finest craft beers in Montreal.
History and Vibe: Benelux is a modern brasserie that draws inspiration from Belgian brewing traditions. It’s an inviting spot for beer enthusiasts who want to explore a different side of Montreal’s pub culture. The contemporary décor and spacious interior provide a relaxed setting where you can enjoy a wide variety of local craft beers.
Craft Beers and Food: At Benelux, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of Belgian-style ales, IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery is known for its seasonal brews, which offer unique flavors that change throughout the year. Whether you're in the mood for a light, citrusy beer or a rich, dark brew, Benelux has something to suit your tastes. Pair your drink with one of their Belgian-inspired dishes, like moules-frites or hearty sausages, to complete the experience.
Stop 5: Brutopia Brew Pub (Crescent Street)
After Benelux, head back to Crescent Street to visit Brutopia Brew Pub, one of Montreal’s premier craft brew pubs. Known for its diverse selection of house-brewed beers, Brutopia is a must-visit stop on your pub crawl.
History and Atmosphere: Brutopia is a favorite among Montreal’s craft beer scene, offering a diverse range of house-brewed beers in a relaxed and inviting setting. With its industrial décor, friendly service, and large beer selection, Brutopia creates a perfect atmosphere for unwinding and trying something new.
Drinks and Food: Brutopia offers a wide range of beers, including their flagship IPA and seasonal specialties. If you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, you’ll love Brutopia’s bold brews. The pub also serves delicious pub fare, including pizzas, burgers, and snackable plates like nachos and sliders. Brutopia's lively atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a beer with friends and soak up the energy of Crescent Street.
Stop 6: The Old Dublin Pub & Restaurant (Bishop Street)
Your pub crawl concludes at The Old Dublin Pub & Restaurant, a classic Irish pub located on Bishop Street, right near your starting point. Known for its traditional décor and lively music, it’s the perfect place to end your afternoon.
History and Vibe: The Old Dublin Pub exudes classic Irish charm, with its warm wooden accents, stone walls, and cozy seating. The atmosphere is always lively, with regular music sessions that create an inviting and fun environment. It’s the kind of place where you can wind down your pub crawl, share stories with friends, and enjoy your final drink of the day.
Drinks and Food: The pub offers a variety of classic Irish whiskeys, beers, and cocktails. You can’t go wrong with a pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey to cap off your crawl. The menu features a mix of classic Irish and pub fare, including hearty dishes like shepherd’s pie, corned beef, and traditional Irish stew. As you sip on your final pint, take in the atmosphere and enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow pub crawlers.
End Time: 7:00 PM – The Perfect Ending to a Montreal Pub Crawl
By 7:00 PM, your Montreal pub crawl will have come to an end. You’ve experienced a delightful mix of Montreal’s finest pubs, from cozy Irish spots to innovative craft beer havens. Along the way, you've tasted delicious brews, savored hearty meals, and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s pub culture. Cheers to a successful crawl through the heart of Montreal’s downtown!
This itinerary offers a diverse and fulfilling experience, perfect for those looking to explore Montreal’s pub scene in a relaxed and enjoyable way. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a local looking to rediscover the city’s best pubs, this crawl is a memorable way to experience Montreal’s hospitality, great food, and, of course, excellent drinks. Drink responsibly and enjoy your journey through Montreal’s lively pub culture!
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