Piranha Bar is a dive with a dual personality: it’s a laid-back downtown hangout by day and a gritty, chaotic live music venue by night. Established in 2007, it’s evolved from a small basement dive into a two-level powerhouse of Montreal’s music scene, complete with arcade games, a pool table, and a line of slot machines. There’s even a punching bag machine for the rowdier regulars.
The vibe here leans rock and metal, with local acts on the upstairs stage and an unapologetically raw, anything-goes crowd. The bar’s famous for its fish tank, though opinions are mixed. All told, this bar might not be for the faint of heart, but if you’re after cheap drinks, grungy charm, and a slice of downtown Montreal’s untamed spirit, this place has it all. Just don’t come expecting a food menu or much of a beer selection beyond the basics.
680 Rue Sainte-Catherine
Opening Hours
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When you’re broke and thirsty: The best dive bars in Montreal
The best dive bars in Montreal keep the spirit of classic watering holes alive with cheap drinks, sticky floors, questionable décor, and a rotating cast of local characters.
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