Montreal’s downtown nightlife just gained a sleek new gem with the opening of Hiba, the latest venture from acclaimed chef Jean-Sébastien Giguère. Nestled on the second floor of the luxurious Humaniti Hotel Montreal, this Japanese-inspired cocktail bar combines elegant mixology, refined design, and a touch of festive flair, quickly becoming a must for those who crave both sophistication and soul.
A Toast to Japanese Craftsmanship
Taking its name from the Japanese cypress tree known for its durability and timeless beauty, Hiba embodies the same spirit of authenticity and refinement. The 2,000-square-foot space radiates understated sophistication, balancing warm woods, subtle lighting, and minimalist elegance. The bar is a sensory invitation to unwind, whether you’re there for an after-work cocktail, a birthday celebration, or a lively evening soundtracked by the resident DJs performing every Thursday through Saturday from 7 p.m.
Signature Cocktails and Refined Pairings
At Hiba, Head Bartender Mickael Bouvier curates a drink menu that merges Japanese precision with Montreal creativity. Standouts include the Ginza Gold, a shimmering mix of St-Louis honey gin, sake, Lillet, and grilled sesame that delivers layered complexity with each sip, and the Midori No Mezame, a pistachio-laced reimagining of the espresso martini featuring St-Rémy VSOP, espresso, rice pudding, and matcha syrup.
For those seeking alcohol-free indulgence, the Amamizu (Biscoff-infused coconut water, pineapple, sudachi, and galangal juice) and Wabi-sabi (sushi rice syrup, green tea, fleur de sel, and orange zest) demonstrate Hiba’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in equal measure. Complementing the bar’s creative spirit is an impressive sake list, showcasing the subtlety and craftsmanship of Japanese brewing traditions.
Culinary Harmony, Izakaya-Style
True to the izakaya concept, dishes are designed for sharing and discovery. Highlights include the Gyu Tataki, a delicate plate of beef, daikon, ponzu, and ginger that bursts with flavor, and the Sake Donburi, featuring salmon, ikura, and rice enriched by a hint of freshly grated wasabi. Each creation bears the hallmark of Chef Giguère’s culinary philosophy, local ingredients elevated through technique and respect for the season.
The eat menu’s conviviality encourages guests to explore, mix, and match, transforming dining into a social ritual that celebrates connection and creativity. It’s a natural extension of Giguère’s culinary lineage, from Le Coureur des Bois and La Cabane du Coureur to Restaurant h3 and Terrasse Alizé, all under the Cogir Restaurants group umbrella.
A Meeting of Cultures and Craft
In crafting Hiba, Chef Giguère bridges Quebec’s terroir and Japan’s meticulous artistry, reflecting a deep respect for both nature and craftsmanship. “Whether it’s cocktails with colleagues or sharing plates with friends, Hiba promises a one-of-a-kind experience that offers guests a taste of Japanese refinement,” says Giguère. With its impeccable balance of serenity and energy, Hiba captures the evolving spirit of Montreal’s dining scene, a place where international inspiration and local identity harmonize effortlessly.
Plan Your Visit
Hiba is now open at Humaniti Hotel Montreal (340 Rue De la Gauchetière Ouest, 2nd floor). Open Sunday through Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday until 1 a.m., it seats up to 90 guests. Reservations can be made online on Libro or by phone at 514-312-7085.
For those who seek elegance without pretension, creativity without compromise, and a genuine sense of place within the city’s cosmopolitan pulse, Hiba is poised to become Montreal’s next nightlife essential, a destination where every sip and every bite tells a story of craftsmanship, connection, and modern refinement.
Hiba Bar
Facebook: @hibabarmtl
Instagram: @hibabarmtl
Website: hibabar.ca