The Best Bars in Mile-Ex, Montreal

Alexandraplatz Bar is still relatively new to the Mile-Ex scene, but it has become a local favorite for getting a drink and enjoying their buzzing terrasse on a balmy summer day. Located in a repurposed vacant garage that makes it the epitome of the offbeat Mile-Ex vibe, Alexandraplatz also hosts regular night markets and musical acts. Note that this hot spot is only open from April to October.

This tiny indie music bar technically lies just beyond the borders of Mile-Ex, though the neighborhood demarcations are not quite precise. Le “Ritz” P.D.B. (or “Punks Don’t Bend”) was formerly Il Motore, a beloved indie dive bar. It’s co-owned by the Montreal concert promoters Blue Skies Turn Black, and it’s known for hosting memorable music nights.

Notre Dame Des Quilles is a local dive bar that is queer- and trans-friendly, hosting varied events that include Sunday Night karaoke and comedy nights. Beer is cheap, and there’s even an on-site bowling alley, which you can enjoy along with typical pub grub options.

HELM is a stylish microbrewery that offers up inventive cocktails and re-imagined comfort food in addition to their in-house brewed beers. Quebec ciders and American wines are also on the menu. Creatively, the name of the bar is an acronym for Houblon (Hops), Eau (Water), Levure (Yeast) and Malt.

Bar Pam Pam is another local dive bar, or a hole-in-the-wall tavern, situated between Mile-Ex and Parc-Ex. There are cheap pitchers, a jukebox, and free pool, making it a great place to go for a casual night out.

Located between Mile-Ex and Little Italy, just west of Jean Talon Market, Brasserie Harricana is a local brewpub with a chic, contemporary vibe that serves different artisan beer options along with gourmet eats (vegetarian-friendly options are available too). A unique twist is that you can write on the walls of the restrooms—within the text balloons wallpapered on the walls.