November 2016 is full of reasons to go out and grab a few drinks! The days are longer, it’s getting cold outside, the stress of Christmas shopping has begun, and we’re all still trying to process the end results of the US Presidential Election! Thankfully, The Coldroom, Montreal’s newest addition to its never ending bar scene, has opened up just in time to help us get through all the madness.
Located right in the heart of Old Montreal at the corner of St-Vincent and St-Amable, it’s reminiscent of the speakeasies of the ’20s. No giant sign advertising where the bar is. You just gotta know where it is, hence why you’ll find this place packed with locals and no tourists. How do you find it? Look for a black door, ring the doorbell, and wait for someone to let you in. Walk down to the basement, and there you will find The Coldroom.
If you’re active on social media (which we know plenty of you are), you’ve probably seen the #followtheduck hashtag. Though it sounds very Alice in Wonderland-like but with a duck instead of a white rabbit (and some major LSD trips), this clever gimmick was created to get everyone excited about Coldroom‘s arrival, and it seems to have worked.
The bar has been jam packed since its opening in September. One visit here and you can see why! The atmosphere is very relaxed and cool, with the perfect touches that make you feel as if you’re in the classiest of bars. Its secretive location really gives you a feeling of exclusivity and even a time warp! You can’t help but feel as if you’re in a Prohibition-like era, but with legal booze of course!
Coldroom is run by Montreal’s famed bartender Kevin Demers, who has been on the bar scene for over a decade. You’ve most likely seen his face at Rouge, Flyjin, and Santos, and he’s most likely responsible for some of your wildest nights and most massive hangovers. So you know you’re in good hands and you’ll be getting some great drinks!
The drink menu has something for everyone, from specialized mixed drinks to classic wines, beers, and spritzers. The staff is very welcoming, especially when you need drink recommendations, and they will even offer you beverages off the menu. Most of their drinks have an element of sweetness in them to satisfy everyone’s drinking style. But don’t let the sweetness fool you, they pack a punch (these bartenders don’t go cheap on the liquor).
It may be hidden, but serious cocktail enthusiasts will have no trouble finding it. What we won’t do and where we won’t go to enjoy a good drink! Coldroom is the perfect addition to Old Montreal and a great place for some after work drinks or an alcohol infused evening out. Warm yourself up with delicious cocktails and see for yourself what all the fuss is about. Be sure to follow Coldroom on Facebook and Instagram!
403 Rue Saint Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y
(514) 451-6911
Photos by The Coldroom, Dahlia Merlo (@dahllii), and Gemma Coccomello (@a_broads_life).
