A true historic bar in Montreal
Bar Dominion, located in the heart of Montreal, is an establishment rich in history and transformations. With its Art Deco style and fine architectural details, it reflected the opulence of its era.
The Beginnings: Dominion Square Hotel
The history of Bar Dominion begins with the Dominion Square Hotel, opened in 1927. This prestigious hotel, located at 1243 Metcalfe Street, quickly gained renown for its elegance and impeccable service.
The Fire of the 1930s
In the 1930s, a fire ravaged the hotel, but the bar miraculously survived, becoming a symbol of resilience.
The Dominion Pub
Over the years, the hotel evolved, and part of its facilities became the Dominion Pub, a convivial meeting place. In the 1970s, it became one of the first establishments in Montreal to openly welcome the gay community, playing a crucial role in providing a safe and inclusive space.
A Men-Only Venue
Until 1988, the Dominion Pub was exclusively for men. This policy ended with a law prohibiting exclusive access, opening its doors to a more diverse clientele.
Dominion Square Tavern
After years of decline, the Dominion Pub became the Dominion Square Tavern in 2009, renovated into a bistro restaurant combining British and Quebecois influences.
The Renaissance: Bar Dominion
After more than 10 years of success, the tavern closed in 2020. In 2023, the establishment was reinvented as Bar Dominion by Andrew Whibley and Pablo Rojas, combining historical elegance with a modern culinary offering.
Today, Bar Dominion celebrates its rich heritage while offering an exceptional gastronomic and mixology experience, becoming a symbol of the balance between cultural heritage and culinary modernity in Montreal.