The Best Microbreweries in Montreal for Your Next Bar Hop

Canadian beer is majorly hot right now, and we’re not talking about the mass-produced lagers you’re used to. Microbreweries are everywhere this side of the border, with over 500 locations in operation across the country. In other words, it’s easier than ever to support local small businesses, while also getting your summer drink on.

In Montreal, craft beer locales are as trendy as brunch spots. And there’s a ton of variety at each location—Dieu du Ciel has 20 beers on tap. But don’t freak out about too much choice just yet. To help you out, our Localist correspondent Sophie Boissinot-Tremblay rounded up the best microbreweries in Montreal so you know exactly where to grab your next cold one. Have a night out planned in another city? We rounded up the best microbreweries all across Canada for your sipping pleasure.

Benelux

Location: 245 Sherbrooke St. West, brasseriebenelux.com
Open since: 2007
The rundown: Whether you grab a table inside or spend time people-watching on the terrace, the vibrant ambiance and dark tavern decor will meet all your pub needs and you’ll find yourself staying a whole afternoon.
What to order: Their anniversary brew Grande Armada
What they’re known for: Hoppy IPAs and pub snacks
Beers on tap: 12, with new casks every Friday
Guided tours: No

Dieu du Ciel

Location: 29 Laurier St. West, dieuduciel.com
Open since: 1998
The rundown: This Montreal staple has been a big part of the craft brew scene in the city for almost 20 years. Their beers are sold in retailers across the province, but the best place to have one is definitely their Plateau home base.
What to order: Rosée d’Hibiscus. It’s the prettiest pink, it smells like grapefruit, and its crisp and refereshing flavour makes it the ideal summer beer.
What they’re known for: A really wide variety of beers, and a super cool crowd
Beers on tap: 20
Guided tours: No

HELM

Location: 273 Bernard St. West, helmmicrobrasserie.ca
Open since: 2007
The rundown: Acronym for Houblon (hop), Eau (water), Levure (yeast), and Malt, HELM is a chill and trendy spot for light dinner, beer tasting and ping pong. Gossip: Kit Harington (aka, Jon Snow) spent many nights at this bar during his stay in Montreal for Xavier Dolan’s upcoming movie.
What to order: Start with a pint of Hutchie Blondie and hit up their all-you-can-eat crab fest happening on April 9.
What they’re known for: Tapas and cider
Beers on tap: 12, all named after the surrounding Mile End streets
Guided tours: No, but they host Cask Wednesday, a festive night where they open a brand new tap live, brew shower included