The Peel Pub in downtown Montreal is reopening. It closed suddenly eight months ago because of bankruptcy but now a new team made up of U.K. expats, who ran pubs like “The Irish Embassy” and “McLean’s Pub,” is taking on the challenge of bringing the “good old days” back. Considered one of the oldest pubs in Montreal, the Peel Pub first opened in 1962 and was always busy — until the pandemic hit. “We’re from England, Ireland, Scotland. We’re beer people, you know, it’s in our blood,” said partner Tony Fewkes. Beer people who take quality seriously, partner Paul Quinn showed off their first renovation, a shiny new beer room in the pub. “We’ve installed all new, state-of-the-art draft beer lines that will have the best beer in the city, and Montreal will be serving the perfect pint.” The Peel Pub has always been a place for sports fans to gather, and Joey Robb, another partner, says they want to grow that niche. “International football, different things for the hockey events, stuff like that. We want to be known for this, for supporters and groups to come in and feel welcome. And feel part of a club,” he said. Comedy nights, quiz contests and pub grub are on the menu. The new Peel Pub partners are confident they can bring back the crowds. “It’s the best-known pub downtown, and it’s a tradition, really,” Fewkes said. “We wanted to keep that tradition going. But make it not your grandfather’s peel pub. More Peel Pub 2026.” The plan is to open in time for St-Patrick’s Day, with a little “luck of the Irish” and the Scottish and British partners.
