The NHL may be locked out, but every sports fans knows: there’s always a game on somewhere. Where should you watch that game in Montreal? The Tribune has some tips.
Champs — A Montreal staple, Champs has two floors of TVs and specializes in showing multiple games at the same time. Fans have the option of sitting at small tables or booths downstairs in one of two relaxing areas separated by the bar, or upstairs at long tables reserved for big hockey games. Head upstairs if you want to watch the game with the real fans. If the Canadiens are playing, you’ll have the opportunity to learn a little bit of French that you wouldn’t have heard in school. The food is decent but it’s made better by the serving staff dressed like referees—just don’t treat them like you would the real guys in the zebra stripes.
Peel Pub — Like big crowds and lots of TVs? Head to Peel Pub to get your fix. The bar is narrow and has two floors, but the sheer number of televisions will have you constantly second-guessing which one shows you the best angle. The menu is extensive, with over 100 items, but the highlight is ‘The Canadian:’ two grilled hot dogs with poutine ‘Quebecoise’ and cole slaw for just $5.99. Peel Pub is often quite crowded on Saturday evenings for Hockey Night in Canada or big UFC fights (get there really early if Georges St-Pierre is fighting) but the crowds should tell you this is the place to be.
McLean’s — Though it is known by some as ‘the place next door for when Peel Pub is full,’ McLean’s doesn’t deserve this reputation. Beer towers and taps built into the tables allow you to stay seated and continuously pour beer without getting up to go and refill at the bar. The pool tables upstairs are nice for those less interested in sports and more in the mood for competing amongst themselves. It’s not quite Peel, but still an option.
Ye Olde Orchard Pub — Much smaller and noasting fewer TVs, Ye Olde has a more intimate atmosphere than some of its competitors. Conveniently located on Prince Arthur just before St Laurent, it’s a good place for those living near McGill to go without making a long trip. Call ahead to make sure your preferred game is being shown, and enjoy some more unique beers other than the usual Boreale or Molson Ex.
Home — If you want to stay close to home, why even leave? At home, you have complete control over the TV, can watch whichever game you want, and can turn it off after your team blows it. The menu consists of whatever you have in your fridge, plus whichever restaurant’s deliwvery number you have on speed dial.
