Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill

You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the "golden era" of jazz in the heart of Montreal. This is where Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill is located—an iconic venue that has held the status of the city's oldest continuously operating jazz club for decades. Tucked away in a cozy semi-basement, this club transports visitors back to the 1940s with its stone walls, wooden panels, and long bar counter.

This jazz oasis, which Canada is rightfully proud of, is regularly featured in the list of the world's 150 best jazz clubs by leading music publications. It's more than just a bar; it's a true cultural institution where the intimate setting encourages deep immersion in the music, making every guest feel like part of an exclusive community of connoisseurs.

The charm of this place lies in its intimacy. The small space creates a unique connection between the artist and the listener, turning every performance into an exclusive performance. Both legendary masters and rising talents representing various styles of modern and classic jazz gather here.

For those planning to spend an evening in the company of top-tier musicians, here is the club's essential contact information:

The main reason to visit this place is, without a doubt, the live music. Concerts take place here all year round, including special programs during the famous Montreal International Jazz Festival. On Mondays, traditional jam sessions are held under the direction of renowned drummer Jim Doxas, where you can witness improvisations by the city's best musicians in an informal setting.

In addition to the musical delight, the club offers a full dining experience. The kitchen, led by Chef Juan Barros, offers a diverse menu: from simple snacks like crispy fries to exquisite main courses, including filet mignon. The drink menu features a respectable selection of wines and beers that will perfectly complement your evening.

An important detail is the emphasis on attentive listening. Thanks to a first-class sound system and the hall's layout, ideal conditions are created for the music to remain the main attraction. Please note that a cover charge may apply to most evening performances, so it's worth checking the schedule in advance.

Finding this jazz oasis in the heart of the metropolis is easy, as it is located in the central part of the city near Concordia University. If you are in the Place des Arts area, the walk to the club will take only about 15–20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the city's architecture before the musical evening begins.

The most convenient way to get there by public transport is to use the metro. You need the Guy-Concordia station (Green Line 1). After exiting onto Rue Mackay, it's just a two-minute walk. Buses #24 and #356 also stop in this area.

For those who prefer the comfort of a taxi or Uber, the trip from Montreal International Airport (YUL) will take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that parking in this area is very limited, so using public transport or a taxi is the most sensible option.

The history of this landmark venue began in 1986, when Christopher Gore opened the establishment above the Charles Darwin pub on Bishop Street. In those days, the atmosphere was filled with the spirit of freedom, and young musicians gave their first concerts among backgammon and chess enthusiasts attracted by the affordable food and relaxed atmosphere.

That same year, due to logistical issues and rent problems, the club moved to a nearby semi-basement location. However, Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill only found its true home in 1994, when it settled in its current location on Mackay Street. This is where the venue received its full liquor license and evolved into a complete bar and restaurant.

Over the decades of its existence, the club has witnessed many iconic performances and has grown from a modest jam session spot into a world-class venue. Today, it is rightfully considered the oldest continuously operating jazz club in the city, having preserved its authenticity and dedication to the genre.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and take your time appreciating the musicians' skill, we recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is enough time to order dinner, relax with a drink, and listen to a full musical set, which usually lasts about an hour and a half.

If you plan to visit during a jam session or a special festival performance, your stay might last longer, as the energy of such evenings often keeps guests until closing time. In any case, there’s no need to rush—jazz requires thoughtful and calm appreciation.

The doors of Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill are usually open to guests from Tuesday to Sunday. The venue begins welcoming visitors at 5:30 PM, allowing for a comfortable dinner before the main musical sets begin, and stays open until 1:00 AM.

Monday is often a day off, although special events or jam sessions are sometimes held on this day. To ensure you don't miss an interesting performance and can get into the club, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule and opening hours on the venue's official website before your visit.

Montreal is a city with a rich cultural and entertainment palette. Exploring the surrounding area before or after your visit to the jazz bar can significantly enrich your travel experience, adding the bright colors of amusement parks and modern entertainment centers to your itinerary.