Montreal: we wouldn't blame you if you had a mild case of the blues thanks to an ice storm, torrential rain and record-breaking snowstorms.
Guess what? There’s nothing like an expertly crafted cocktail to turn that frown upside down.
With the launch of her first cocktail menu, Cynthia Lachapelle—Time Out Market Montréal’s Market Manager overseeing the bars—has dreamed up 12 new cocktails inspired by some of Montreal’s favourite neighbourhoods.
From the fine sands of the Caribbean to Montreal's epic mixology scene, Cynthia has carved out a path as rich as it is inspiring, using a creative approach designed to take guests on a journey, one sip at a time.
From 2015 to 2019, she honed her craft at Club Med, perfecting her service and bartending skills across dreamy destinations like Punta Cana, Columbus Isle, Cancun, and Sahoro, Japan. But it wasn’t until 2017 when she truly delved into the world of mixology, discovering the place where innovation and precision meet in Opio, France.
Driven by a thirst for learning, she returned to Montreal in 2019 and joined the team at Time Out Market Montréal as a bartender. The Market ((home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in the city under one roof) is where Cynthia has refined her techniques, expanded her creativity, and made history by creating the new role of Head Bartender.
As Market Manager overseeing the bars, she now takes on a new challenge—leading the development and management of cocktail menus like this one inspired by some of the city’s best neighbourhoods.
Thirsty? Here are Cynthia’s top 3 cocktails inspired by some of Montreal's epic neighbourhoods:
1. The Saint-Henri
Described as rustic and refined, Saint-Henri—recently ranked one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world—loves to play with contrasts, blending rustic and refined elements. This cocktail balances the smooth sweetness of cocoa with the bold, smoky kick of chipotle. The neighbourhood has a storied working-class history and is evolving into a trendy, sought-after destination.
In the same way, the Saint-Henri cocktail combines classic ingredients like bourbon and crème de cacao with a modern, daring twist (chipotle syrup and cacao-chipotle bitters). This quaffable drink embodies the spirit of the cocktail: a comforting classic base with a bold, unexpected twist that appeals to everyone looking for a new and exciting experience.
2. The Mile End
Mile End is a neighbourhood where people love original and inventive combinations, and this creative and bold cocktail truly embodies that spirit. Sumac syrup adds a fresh, daring note—perfect for an area filled with independent boutiques, avant-garde restaurants, and cafés where baristas aren’t afraid to experiment with new recipes. Mile End (ranked 5th coolest neighbourhood in the world a few years back) is the kind of place that celebrates small discoveries and originality—just ask Blake Lively.
When sumac mingles with kiwi, this cocktail becomes a blend of tastes from different backgrounds, much like Mile End (a neighbourhood known for its rich cultural diversity). Grapefruit and red cranberry bring a tart and invigorating touch, perfectly matching the youthful and dynamic energy of the area. And because Mile End is both laid-back and trendy, this cocktail’s bright, intriguing flavours capture the neighbourhood’s unique atmosphere—where every alley and storefront has something special to offer.
3. The Verdun
Verdun is a neighbourhood that blends a relaxed, friendly vibe with a touch of modern elegance. It’s home to plenty of bistros, small terraces and specialty shops (even a small beach!) where people come together—no wonder it was ranked the number one coolest street in the world. This cocktail, with its fruity and sparkling profile, is exactly the kind of refreshing, festive drink you’d enjoy at one of rue Wellington’s bars.
Verdun is also a place where long summer nights come alive with festivals, community events, and outdoor entertainment. This cocktail is made for that—an invigorating and celebratory drink, perfect for an impromptu summer happening. The orange blossom bitters add a floral, sophisticated touch, perfectly complementing Verdun’s welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.
For more information about Time Out Market Montréal, click here.
RECOMMENDED:
Complete guide to the best restaurants in Montreal
Best bars in Montreal
Best attractions in Montreal