The Coldroom — Restaurant in Montreal

While the drinks at this bar were of excellent quality, the service left much to be desired—particularly due to discriminatory treatment. I recently visited with a small group and was initially impressed by the drinks and the attentiveness of the bartender. However, my experience quickly deteriorated when we encountered a troubling situation with the hostess, Lily, that seemed to suggest an underlying bias.

Upon arriving, my party of three was seated at the bar, where the bartender was both courteous and accommodating. However, when we requested to be moved to an available table for four, we were told by Lily that the table was being reserved for larger groups. As time passed, we observed that several tables remained vacant, yet two other groups of three were seated at them without issue. When I approached the bartender again to inquire about our request, he too was unable to assist, and Lily continued to refuse.

What was most disconcerting, however, was the apparent discrepancy in treatment. Both groups of three that were seated at the empty tables appeared to be predominantly Caucasian, while my group did not fit this profile. I could not help but wonder if our request had been denied due to some underlying prejudice.

As the evening drew to a close, I raised the matter with the bartender, who apologized but reiterated that nothing could be done. Yet, just moments later, a different server approached my companion to inform her that a table had "suddenly" become available. Curiously, the offer was extended to her and not to me—perhaps an innocent mistake, though the timing and context made it seem far less so. My friend does NOT fall under the ‘person of colour’ category.

Ultimately, I chose to leave with my friends, feeling that my presence was not truly welcomed by the hostess—until, of course, she likely realized that I had caught on to the discrimination at play.

This marks my first-ever review on Google, and I plan to share this experience on Tripadvisor as well. As a person of colour, it often feels as though I must justify my observations and experiences. For context, I’ve had the privilege of dining at numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and visiting renowned bars across Canada and internationally—and never have I encountered such treatment.

While the drinks themselves were commendable, the service—specifically the conduct of the hostess—was an undeniable failure. The discriminatory experience of the evening was impossible to ignore, and I cannot in good conscience recommend this establishment under such...

Hidden Charm and Delightful Libations at Coldroom Speakeasy

If you're looking for a truly unique speakeasy experience in Montreal, Canada, look no further than Coldroom. This hidden gem offers a charming atmosphere and a selection of libations that are sure to please.

Locating the entrance to Coldroom adds to the intrigue. Keep an eye out for a random door adorned with a duck above it. This unconventional entrance sets the tone for what awaits inside. Upon entering, you'll find the space to be a bit muggy and warm, which cleverly plays on the contrast of its name, "Coldroom." This subtle touch adds an interesting twist to the overall ambiance.

When it comes to the libations, Coldroom does not disappoint. The gin and tonic, a classic favorite, was expertly crafted and lived up to expectations. The flavors were well-balanced, showcasing the skill and attention to detail of the bartenders. Additionally, the custom menu at Coldroom adds a delightful touch to the experience. With a range of carefully curated options, you can explore unique flavor combinations and discover new favorites tailored to your preferences.

The service at Coldroom deserves commendation as well. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about mixology, creating a welcoming and engaging environment. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or new to the world of craft beverages, the bartenders are happy to guide you through the menu and provide recommendations based on your tastes.

It's important to note that due to the intimate nature of Coldroom, the space can fill up quickly. Arriving early or making a reservation is recommended to secure a comfortable spot and avoid disappointment.

In conclusion, Coldroom offers a hidden sanctuary for those seeking a memorable speakeasy experience in Montreal. With its quirky entrance and warm ambiance, it exudes a unique charm. The libations are skillfully crafted, and the custom menu provides a delightful selection to explore. If you appreciate a touch of mystery and a well-crafted cocktail, Coldroom is definitely...

I usually don’t leave any negative review, especially for small businesses because I know how hard it is to run a business, but this time is an exception. I think you will find the coldroom either a great bar or a terrible one, depending on the color of your skin and whether you speak French. Welcome to my most racist experience in Canada ! I have been visiting Montreal for more than 20 times in the past decade, since I got a great friend who married a quebecois. Every time I visit with a group of locals, I had a blast, and except the only one time I took an Asian friend (who was dressed in suits - met me after his work). We did not have a reservation so I waited patiently but after 1.5 hours in the cold, I started realizing that they only let “French-speaking” groups in. I asked questions to the persons who managed the gate, and obviously they denied. Then I caught a newly arrived group without reservation waltzed their way in after 5 mins while groups without someone looks like quebecois were still out. I could not hold my anger by confronting them. In the end, we still did not get in and we sat in a pizzeria cross the street and counted the groups that they let in versus the ones they turned away. So, the basic rule is if you are with some French speaking folks (look white), they could miraculously find a way to let you in within 15 mins but if you are nonwhite and don’t speak French, you are out of luck. I was intrigued and fierce to realize how all of my wonderful experience previously with this bar was purely based on the “association” with my quebecois friends. At that time, I really didn’t know how I should feel. This incident happened in a cold winter day in 2022, and I still remember this as the most insulting and upsetting racist experience in a country I live since 2006. I guess that is something memorable about...