Le Cagibi
Located in the Mile End, Le Cagibi is a coffeehouse and vegetarian restaurant by day and a bar and concert venue by night. Shows are held in the back room where listeners can settle into a cozy armchair with a drink and, depending on the night, enjoy a multitude of genres from folk and acoustic to experimental acts. The events are usually free or by donation, and when the show is over, guests can head around the corner for some late night munchies at St-Viateur bagel; the perfect end to a perfect night!
La Sala Rossa
La Sala Rossa is much more than amazing sangria. Above the delicious Spanish restaurant is a classic concert venue featuring velvet curtains, chandeliers, and a bar in the rear for those in the mood to chill out and have a drink. La Sala Rossa hosts anything from jazz to indie rock, but the shows can range all the way to a burlesque performance or a breakdance competition. This venue caters to all interests, so no matter who attends, La Sala Rossa will have the perfect event. Cover varies from free to $30 depending on the artist, but the Thursday night flamenco show is always free.
Casa Del Popolo
Venture into Casa Del Popolo, through a small, dark hallway, and suddenly a room full of concert posters, live music, and good vibes emerge. After checking out the band, one can head to the terrace to relax and have a drink. Casa Del Popolo hosts a variety of artists from electronic to indie. Mondays and Tuesdays are always free, and cover for the rest of the week is either pay-what-you-can or between $5 to $25. Monthly events including a spoken word night and a Comix Jam—where artists come together to create impromptu graphic art—allowing patrons to both experience or create art on any given night.
W()MB
W()MB is a new space run by a collective of seven Montreal musicians and artists. The entertainment ranges from experimental music acts and movie projection nights, to drone installations and art shows. The appearance of the space changes based on the act, so there is always a fresh feel. Cover varies depending on the artist and type of event, and events range from the standard two-hour show to all night long.
Le P’tit Bar
Le P’tit Bar is one of the smallest and most charming venues in Montreal. Those searching for the authentic Quebecois experience need look no further. Most of the bands are local and so is the crowd. The venue only holds about 30 people, making it a great place for a date or a night out with a few friends. There are shows every day of the week and they are typically pay-what-you-can.