By
Matt Mathrani
|
Click on the link for a handy PDF version of our March 2008 Montreal travel feature!
|
The entertainment capital of Canada, Montreal is a bustling island city. Originally monikered 'Ville Marie,' the enchantment here is all wrapped up in its unique Quebecois language and culture,
rooted in 16th-century France. That pre-revolutionary seasoning helps make the city super friendly and liberal to boot. But fully in the sophisticated present are the bars, restaurants, saunas,
clubs, boutiques, B∓Bs, and festivals abounding in this sexually-charged city.
Though the axis of the gay action predominates in "The Village," along Ste. Catherine Street from St. Denis through Lorimier, gay and gay-friendly establishments are just about everywhere in
Montreal.
Contrary to popular belief, U.S. visitors do not need a passport to enter Canada or return home if traveling by land or sea until mid 2009. A driver's license and birth certificate is all
that's required. But for air travel, a passport is indeed now de rigeur.
The 'Seen'
Jet-set boys flock to Bad Boys Club Montreal circuit parties, gathering at places such as the multi-level Sky Pub (1474 Ste. Catherine E) with a roof-top tub, or Club Unity Montreal (1171 Ste. Catherine E), or Stereo (858 Ste. Catherine E), or Parking Pub (1295 Amherst, corner Ste. Catherine), still achingly popular after all these years.
Leather-denim types hang out at the archetypal Stud (1812 Ste. Catherine E), where the ambiance is easy-going. Le Stud features a smallish dance floor chock full of sweaty boys, two
pool tables, and an upstairs bar for weekend overflow. In season, they open the windows onto Ste. Catherine and Papineau, and there's a sidewalk terrace. Montreal's active bear community holds
regular events here. Wednesdays at the Stud are well trafficked by girls -- the real ones!
Black Eagle (1315 Ste. Catherine E), also known as L'Aigle Noir, is warm and dark, with sex videos contributing both light and heat. Rubber guys gather in the very low-lit back
bar. If luck favors you, you'll be there for a Wet Underwear night or one of the Eagle's other special parties.
At Parking Pub (1295 Amherst) the ambiance is more subdued, typical of Montreal's taverns; it's mostly jeans and leather you'll find here. The pub features a new four-season, enclosed
terrace. Boyz Night Out is celebrated every Monday. Hamlet Roney and Chris Ozanick host live performances, there are go-go boys and girls, shows, weekly theme nights, and surprise door prizes
are in store. The Tunnel -- a very sexual leather venue tucked beneath Parking -- adds to the allure here.
Drugstore (1360 Ste. Catherine E) is four stories of gay action where men and women mix, with the latter seeming preponderant.
The Hotel Bourbon complex (1574 Ste. Catherine E) comprises an entire block. Guests have access to several bars and restaurants in the complex. Year round there's street trade on the
block surrounding the complex and in the park behind the hotel.
Club Date (1218 Ste. Catherine E) opens early in the day, but most of the action is at night when there's karaoke on tap. In season they open the front window-doors to create instant
access to the Ste. Catherine Street bazaar.
Cabaret Mado (1115 Ste. Catherine E) is Montreal's famous drag bar/restaurant, where a beautiful gay-and-straight crowd intersperses.
Bar Cocktail (1669 Ste. Catherine E), great for happy-hour specials, is a piano bar -- a unique venue in the Village.
Bar Relaxe (1309 Ste. Catherine E), as the name suggests, is laid-back and the clientele is easy-going and generally mature.
Tools (1592 Ste. Catherine E) is brand new. Hailing itself as a club and playroom, it's open just Friday through Sunday. Their dance floor gets well-trod by oodles of locals and a
playroom in the back makes for a "full" night out.
Gotha Bar (1641 Amherst) is where locals prefer to hang. The fireplace adds charm to this bar's warm ambiance.
Back on Ste. Catherine Street, Bar Meteor (1661 Ste. Catherine E) features fixed-menu suppers and frequent live entertainment, when they push back the tables for la danse sociale.
Bar Rocky (1673 Ste. Catherine E) offers up hardcore videos and frequent live entertainment. It's a neighborhood men's bar, much like the always-crowded L'Idem Bar (1669 Ste.
Catherine E), where the second floor is packed with video poker machines.
Club Legends (1452 Ste. Catherine E) is soon to unfurl itself on the masses. Having housed several sex clubs (including Le Backroom and Club Play quite recently), this solid old
post-office building is quite the venue.
Located in downtown Montreal, the city's longest-running gay establishment Mystique (1424 rue Stanley) still gets by.
Nude dancer bars
You won't find a scene such as this anywhere else in North America. Lip-smackingly delicious men peel off their clothing to an audience all agape, necks craned with almost priapic anticipation,
till not a stitch is left to doff. This denouement heats up a notch more in the secluded VIP lounges, where one-on-one lap dancing is refined into an art form.
Campus (1111 Ste. Catherine E) offers guys from all over the beauty spectrum in the friendliest of atmospheres. It's a great place to have a drink with friends, play pool, or of course
savor the gorgeous dancers. The daily action commences at 3 p.m. The bar's low-light VIP section behind the DJ booth is plush.
There's great entertainment, including the signature shower show, at Stock (1171 Ste. Catherine), where the VIP lounge is large and discreet, and the
two backrooms promise much frolic. To preview Le Stock dancers, check the bar's websites for dancers' profiles and photo galleries, plus live action -- for a nominal fee -- from 9 p.m. till 2
a.m.
Farther down Ste. Catherine Street, check out the hot, crowded action at Bar Adonis (1681 Ste. Catherine E), holding court to admirers of young guys.
Beautiful young dancers is certainly the theme at Taboo (1950 de Maisonneuve). The international selection of boys dance the night away to a clientele that just can't get enough. If only
the curtained secluded private dance area could speak! Taboo is well-thronged every night of the week.
Saunas & sex
Montrealers are sauna lovers and you're certain to find chaleur (warmth) in them.
The always-relaxing Sauna Centre-ville (1465 Ste. Catherine E) offers 60 rooms, plus steam and sauna, on two floors.
Sauna Sainte Catherine (1836 Ste. Catherine E) is the newest one in town and unique owing to its inviting dance floor, live DJs, and an XXX-cinema. A giant screen (for TV and movies) keeps the
ambiance percolating.
Sauna Oasis (1390 Ste. Catherine E) is in the heart of the gay village, and for over a year, the new owners and staff have been tinkering and improving. Check out the brand new steam
room, the dry sauna, legendary oversized whirlpool, the glory holes, the XXX movie theater, the two dark rooms, and the pool table area. Among the events here are the Nude Dude Mondays, Hot and
Sweaty Tuesdays, the Wednesday Jock, with an outrageous foam party on Thursday nights
G.I. Joe Sauna (1166 Ste. Catherine E) features four floors of action with a large wet area and an active labyrinth. Their clientele is largely leather-oriented.
Downtown, 456 (456 de la Gauchetière W) bills itself as "Canada's largest," with 130 rooms. There's a swimming pool large enough to do laps in, on the main floor, and a full gym
downstairs, plus the requisite sauna, whirlpool, steam, and snack bar. The 456 will also feature a sauna-lounge -- the first in Montreal -- with a retro-futuristic ambiance in mind. Soon it
will include cool furniture, sofas, light-cube tables. Light will be a theme here along with water -- there will be a laser projector and a brilliant use of blue LEDs, and a corridor
scintillating with flat-screen TVs. Relaxing chill-out music will murmur over the new sound system.
On the Plateau Mont Royal, three saunas vie for your attention.
Sauna 5018 (5018 Boulevard St. Laurent) is well frequented and well maintained. There's a dry sauna, a big whirlpool, a sun deck, masseur on-premises, and a snack bar proffering
home-made fare.
At SDP (961 rue Rachel), which stands for Sauna Du Plateau , people are bien amiable. Their large rooftop terrace is slammed all summer. SDP's popular labyrinth goes by the
name Alcatraz. This sauna also offers several "hotel rooms" with in/out privileges.
Colonial Bath (3963 Colonial Avenue) has been serving the community since 1914. The clientele throw water onto heated rocks to create their own steam, and you'd best stay away from the
iron door in front of the furnace when they do that! Some even wear hats to protect from the heat blast. Many bring oak or maple switches for self-flagellation, in the old Russian tradition.
There's a rather hot tub, saunas (both wet and dry), private rooms, lockers, plus massage services, and plenty of areas to relax especially in the warm months when the garden and rooftop
terraces are open.
Eating out
If you're heading out to eat, try the fare at the previously mentioned Club Sandwich (1570 Ste. Catherine E). They serve a variety of huge club sandwiches with equally generous helpings
of frites, plus soups, breakfasts, cakes, and more -- 24 hours a day. The other restaurants in the complex are Orient Express, with its dining-car ambiance, and the large, open
Cafe Europeen, which overflows with activity and, in-season, offers outdoor seating.
Planete (1451 Ste. Catherine E) seduces the maw with cuisine solaire. With 14 years under its belt, it's one of the pioneers of the scene. The diverse menu features seafood,
salad, grilled items, delicious frites, and prize-winning desserts. The "Planetinis," creative martini combos -- such as Up Uranus, Mars Attack, and Sweet Hell -- are intoxicatingly
good. Happy hour is from 5 to 7 p.m. every day. A Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. through 3 p.m., and two-for-one Tuesday dinners are always popular.
Colombe (554 Duluth E, corner of St. Hubert, on the Plateau Mont Royal) caters sterling French fare. Italian cuisine shines at Piccolo Diavolo (1336 Ste. Catherine E), Donatella Cafe Lounge (1453 Ste. Catherine E), and at the cheery and bustling Strega (1477 Ste. Catherine E).
Home to the well-received Saloon burger, as well as fajitas, pasta, and more, Saloon (1333 Ste. Catherine E) is a prime spot to meet up with friends in the Village.
Bato Thai (1310 Ste. Catherine E) aims to please with the romance of dim lighting and superbly fragrant Thai cuisine.
Kilo Cafe (1495 Ste. Catherine E) is a hangout serving light fare, coffees, and desserts. Their gargantuan cakes, such as Poire-William and Choco-Banane, merit a favorable mention.
The long-standing Resto du Village (1310 Wolfe), serving "homemade" food from breakfast to dinner, is open 24 hours every day.
Shopping and coifing
Don't miss the action at Priape (1311 Ste. Catherine E). They are pioneers of the gay scene, having set up shop almost 30 years ago. Browse the huge selection of jeans and party wear,
underwear, bathing suits, videos/DVDs, pleasure toys, lubes, books, and all the gay paraphernalia you can dream of. Priape's famous leather studio is tucked downstairs within the store. There
you'll find not just quality leather goodies but latex and chain mail as well.
For porn viewing, Wega Complex (930 Ste. Catherine E) is the place. Several peeps and a cinema are on premises. They also vend everything from dildos to ball stretchers, lotions and
lubes, body supplements, and the latest porn in DVD and on tape.
Physotech Plus (1657 Amherst) is Montreal's pampering leader. Massage, electro-muscle stimulation, hair styling, bronzage, skin care, laser hair removal, and related services are on the
menu, but book in advance because the boutique is busier than ever. It's located a block-and-a-half from Ste. Catherine Street, on Amherst.
Accommodations
There's ample choice in and around the village. Conciergerie (1019 St. Hubert) is one of the originals, with Michael and Luc making it happen for 23 years. The ambiance at
this elegantly modeled place is fun, relaxed, and quiet. There's an indoor whirlpool and a roof deck (season permitting), and a cruisy little gym. Free wireless internet courses through the
guesthouse. Complimentary continental breakfast is served in a glass-enclosed breakfast nook, and there's a garden view.
At Aubergell.com (L'Un et L'Autre) (1641 Amherst) the cozy rooms and common areas feature upscale design elements, such as heated slate floors and plush stairway carpeting. There's a breakfast nook,
internet hook-up, and a (seasonal) terrace which sees its share of cocktail action. Charming host Yvon has been part of the scene for years. This guesthouse is situated above the aforementioned
Gotha Bar. The omnipopular Yvon also owns co-owns Sir Montcalm Gite/B&B (1453 Montcalm) with Andre, a gem of a guesthouse, offering trendy urban chic decor in a non-smoking environment. A hearty,
delicious four-course breakfast is included, as well as a free day pass to the gym in the neighborhood. Laundry services for long-term stays add to the convenience.
La Loggia (1637 Amherst) is a Victorian-style former artist's residence transformed into comfortable lodgings.
Absolument Montreal (1790 rue Amherst) stands out as a hip urban B∓B in the Village, with luxury amenities and distinct cinema-themed guest rooms. The outdoor all-season garden
jacuzzi is a sybarite's delight. A copious gourmet breakfast is served till noon, right in one's room, on the private terrace, or in the breakfast room. Luxury linens, bathrobes, and slippers,
are en suite. There's also complimentary access to a library of books, DVDs, games, and a PC with internet connection.
Chasseur (1567 rue St. Andre) is another of the originals, celebrating 25 years. Here the rooms are comfortable and the price is right, starting at $39. Rooms with or without private
bath are available. Daily continental breakfast (American-style in the summer) is included. Calm and relaxed, it gets many repeat guests. Roch of Le Chasseur also offers a typical Montreal
apartment for those choosing to be more private.
At Bed & Breakfast Du Village or BBV (1279 rue Montcalm) amenities include convenient interior parking, an in-season hot tub, and access to a washer and dryer. Le petit
dejeuner is included in the price of your stay. Lots of improvements are in store here including new floors and private bathrooms. The good-looking young owners are a compelling draw unto
themselves!
Le 3 Mai (1607 Montcalm) is close to all the action, too. Perched a flight of stairs up, you'll five pleasant rooms (with shared bath), plus three furnished apartments are at hand.
Continental brekky is served 9 a.m. through 11 a.m. Owner Johnny is well plugged-in with the trendy young 'uns in town. And he even has a "broken hearts club" of sort at this home he opens to
all. Kind, friendly advice is always at hand.
At Houseboy B & B (1281 rue Beaudry) the activity centers on a large, glass-enclosed breakfast room with views of the secluded back garden. An internet station makes for
merry cruising. An outdoor spa is at hand. A smoke-free facility, those who prefer to light it up are, however, permitted to smoke on the balconies or the terrace. Parking is available for $10
a day. And it's exactly a minute's walk from the action.
Animal lovers will appreciate the intimate Escogriffe B & B (1264 Wolfe), where Denis hosts a menagerie that includes several affectionate cats and one fun, smart dog named
Dolby. Offerings include five rooms and a complete American breakfast (think bacon, eggs, waffles, OJ, coffee!) plus a rooftop terrace. Private parking is available for $10.
Right in the thick of the Ste-Catherine scene is Belles Vues B&B (1407 rue Panet), where they advertise Location, Location, Location and they mean it! Located at crossroads in the
center of the Village, huge windows give you a bird's -eye view of the beauties strolling down the main drag of Ste. Catherine Street East's Gay Village. This is a large, modern, spacious
B∓B, which has available as well a fully equipped three-bedroom apartment suite -- ideal for small groups. It's super-convenient and private, and you are just steps from the Beaudry Metro
station to connect you to the rest of the city.
Big Boys Guesthouse (1474 Boulevard de Maisonneuve E) is sure to win you over from the moment you are welcomed by your two Big Boy hosts: Will and Stephan. Right in the Gay Village, they
offer five gorgeous air conditioned rooms. An excellent continental breakfast is served every morning. They also host gay weddings here and even sport an in-house lawyer!
The intimate, rich-feeling Ruta Bagage (1345 rue Ste. Rose) is another place just off Ste. Catherine Street. It's quiet, and the streets here are tree-lined. You'll enjoy quiet rooms,
huge windows, and lots of sun. Furnished apartments are also available.
Alexandre Logan (1870) B & B (1631 Alexandre de Sève) is a beautiful home with a history dating to the 19th century. The ambiance is warm and solid. Hosts Alain and Luc offer an outdoor sun
deck and shower for summertime guests.
Travelers who prefer a hotel have choice, too. Hotel St-André (1285 rue St. Andre) offers clean, modern rooms at moderate prices, and a special touch: continental breakfast served in
the room -- cafe au lait au lit is a definitely possibility! There's free internet in the rooms and by the reception. And parking is free. Recent renovations have continued to upgrade
the comforts at this establishment.
Hotel Manoir Des Alpes (1245 rue St. Andre) hints of a slightly different European flavor, thanks to the owners, who are from Portugal and France. The comfortable rooms are offered at
modest rates. Extended continental breakfast is served in a common room area, downstairs. There's free wireless internet and free parking, too.
Hotel Dorion (1477 rue Dorion), located across the street from the Papineau Metro, is in the heart of the Village and very accessible to Bar Taboo. (It's perfect for those who fancy a
night of revelry without having to travel too far!) At Dorion, they rent overnight or shorter-term rooms, each with a private bath and modern conveniences. Rooms with jacuzzis and mini-fridges
are also available. The continental breakfast here is complimentary.
On the lower end of St. Denis Street the upgraded but still reasonably-priced Hotel De La Couronne (1029 St. Denis) offers a classic hotel ambiance, and a respite from the action in the
village. There's free parking for hotel guests.
Abri du Voyageur Hotel (9 Ste. Catherine W, just west of St. Laurent) appeals to the budget-conscious traveler. The hotel also rents efficiency suites. Staff here are always
amiable.
Back in the Village, Hotel Bourbon (1574 Ste. Catherine E) offers 31 moderately priced rooms and five luxury suites. As noted earlier, guests here have internal access to all parts of
the complex.
Venture to the countryside to get a breath of really fresh air! In the Laurentians, north of Montreal, the forest comes right to the property at Septentrion B & B (Leseptentrion.qc.ca), and
you can walk to the mountains. It's the province's only gay five-star rated inn, and it's super deluxe. Facilities include a seasonal swimming pool and a hot tub. Les Chutes (waterfalls) de
Ste-Marguerite du Lac Masson, in nearby Ste. Adele, are a major attraction.
If you're racing to Quebec City look no further than Coureur Des Bois (15 rue Ste. Ursule). A comfortable and agreeable sojourn is assured in this historical Franco-Canadian edifice
that houses recently modernized lodgings.
Upcoming Montreal events
Montreal High Lights Festival
February 21 to March 2
montrealenlumiere.com
SugarBear Weekend
March 28 to 29
sugarbearweekend.com
Bal en Blanc (Montreal's White Party)
March 20 to 24
balenblanc.com
Montreal International Jazz Festival
June 26 to July 6
Montreal International Art Festival
July 3 to 6
montrealjazzfest.com
Loto-Quebec International Fireworks Competition
June 21 to August 6
lesgrandsfeux.com
Montreal Just For Laughs Festival
July 10 to 20
justforlaughs.ca
Divers/Cité
July 27 to August 3
Image+Nation International GLBT Film Festival
No dates specified yet
image-nation.org
Harvest 5th Edition: Montreal LGBT Theatre Festival
September 24 to October 12
villagescene.com
Bad Boy Club Montreal (BBCM) events
bbcm.org
Red Weekend February 14 to 18
Hot & Dry May 15 to 19
Twist July 26 to August 3
Bal des Boys Weekend December 30 to January 2
|
Advertise with us
Subscriptions
Contact us
Site map
Translate
