Jazz Bar in Montreal: A Living Tradition at Bootlegger
Montreal and jazz share a deep history. The International Jazz Festival, the city’s musicians and legendary venues such as Rockhead’s Paradise and Biddle’s Jazz & Ribs helped shape a musical culture recognized far beyond Quebec.
Since Bootlegger opened in 2016, jazz has been part of our DNA. Our format has evolved, but our goal remains the same: to bring music to life in an intimate place where artists, cocktails, food and guests can share the same evening.
about us
Jazz at the Heart of Bootlegger Since 2016
The style naturally matched our speakeasy decor and New Orleans inspirations. In the early days, several team members already had connections with musicians they had met during their studies, which allowed us to quickly build programming.
During the first years, Bootlegger presented almost one show per day. That period established our reputation as a live music venue and allowed us to welcome many artists from the Montreal scene.
From “Live Venue” to a Complete Bar and Music Experience
As the project grew, we noticed that Bootlegger was sometimes perceived only as a concert venue. It then became harder to showcase the work done at the bar, the whisky collection, absinthe and food outside show hours.
We therefore rebalanced the programming. Rather than reproducing the model of a conventional jazz club, we chose a more flexible formula: regular musical rendezvous integrated into a true cocktail bar experience.
This approach preserves the art of jazz while making it accessible to a broader audience. Some guests come for a group they know; others attend their first jazz show because they were first drawn to the place, cocktails or oysters.
The Famous Sunday Jazz
Among all the formats tested over the years, one tradition remains essential: Bootlegger’s Sunday jazz. Present since 2016, this evening is appreciated by both our guests and the artists who take part.
Sunday makes it possible to end the week in a warm atmosphere with a cocktail, a glass of whisky, a meal or $1 oysters. Programming, show time and admission conditions should always be confirmed in the official calendar.
Showcasing Montreal Artists
Over the years, we have developed privileged relationships with more than thirty artists and groups from Montreal. Programming can vary by season to offer regulars something new and introduce different styles.
Depending on the evening, guests may hear classic jazz, swing, Latin influences, soul, blues, funk or more contemporary projects. This diversity reflects the vitality of Montreal’s music scene.
A Jazz Evening Without Rigid Protocol
Bootlegger does not impose a single way to experience the show. You can come specifically to listen to the band, share a meal during the performance, have a cocktail at the bar or continue the evening with a whisky tasting.
This freedom is part of our vision: to create an entry point into jazz, especially for people who are not used to traditional concert halls.
Cocktails, Food and Oysters During the Show
Bar and kitchen service continues during jazz nights. Guests can therefore start with happy hour, order sharing plates, enjoy $1 oysters when offered, then stay for the concert without changing locations.
For groups, a reservation is recommended to obtain a suitable table and confirm visibility, schedule and the evening’s conditions.
Our Jazz Nights in the Media
- 2020 — Time Out included Bootlegger in content about Montreal jazz bars.
- 2019 — Bootlegger appeared in Cult MTL’s Best of Montreal ranking among public-voted live music venues.
- Source or internal page: The best jazz bars in Montreal — Bootlegger archive
- Source or internal page: Best of Montreal 2019 — nightlife
faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Programming varies by season and event. The official calendar is the best source for dates, artists and times.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for groups and guests who want a table with a good view of the musicians.
Yes, depending on kitchen hours and the evening menu. It is best to arrive before the concert begins to order more comfortably.
View the Calendar and Reserve
Discover upcoming artists and reserve your table for an evening of jazz, cocktails and food at Bootlegger.