COCKTAILS IN THE GAY VILLAGE: WHERE TO START THE PARTY

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“Where do I get a good cocktail in Montreal?” – This question is frequently posed as travelers search out the ideal place to get their drink on. Well before I proceed with an answer, I want you to know that you’ve come to the right place. Montrealers love to drink.

Late night parties are the norm around here. Bars and nightclubs are open until 3 AM, and then after-hours clubs continue the party to the wee hours of the morning. But when dinner has ended, and the bars aren’t yet hopping, what does a gay do? Well I’ll tell you — a gay goes for a cocktail.

In the summer the choices for cocktails become plentiful with the restaurant and club patios spilling onto Saint Catherine’s street. But as the weather cools and the parties head indoors, it might be less obvious where your best beverage might be found.

So here are seven places to whet the old whistle.

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GOTHA LOUNGE – As a personal favorite, this cozy watering hole is classy yet unpretentious. In the wintry months, there is a wood-burning fireplace that takes the chill off. The revolving art on the wall ensures that no visit is the same. Try the white cranberry martini.

Le SALOON – For many years this stylish eatery has been the “it” place to be seen in the Gay Village. With a DJ spinning while you dine, and the most comprehensive martini menu north of NYC, you’re guaranteed a deelish cocktail and some damn sexy servers.

CABARET MADO – For a drink and some debauchery, this is your best bet. The drag queens usually hit the stage around 10 PM. The drinks won’t be terribly fancy, but the costumes will be. Sit in the front row and you might get a chance to “interact” with Mado! Thank me later.

Le DRUGSTORE – The first stop for the ladies. With five floors of lesbian goodness, including a diner, a billiards room and a hair saloon, you’ll find all the ingredients for an exciting evening. In the summer, the rooftop terrace is the place to watch the sun sink over the city. Dreamy!

SKY PUB – A jovial atmosphere is found on the ground floor of this big gay complex. It’s here where many Montrealers go after work to chat with friends and to see what the cat might drag in. The beer is as cheap as the drag queens. Wait, am I allowed to say that?

CLUB DATE – The premiere karaoke venue in the village. Everyone leaves their inhibitions (and attitudes) at the door for a wholesome evening of Celine covers and pitchers of beer. Go and release the inner karaoke diva.

NÜVÜ BISTRO – The newest establishment in the Gay Village has taken “chic” to new heights. With daily themes projected in multimedia installations on the walls, the creativity might provide the backdrop for a new romance. Try the “Concombre Masqué” martini – all that cucumber yumminess might qualify the cocktail as healthful!

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