Montreal restaurants are seeing a significant playoff-driven business boost as the Canadiens advance deeper into the NHL postseason, according to new transaction data from Moneris.
The payment processor reported sharp increases in restaurant spending both near Bell Centre and across the city during the Canadiens’ second-round playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres, highlighting how major live sporting events continue driving hospitality traffic and consumer spending.
Bell Centre Area Sees Strong Restaurant Activity
Restaurant activity intensified as the series returned to Montreal for home games. Spending near the Bell Centre increased 37 per cent during Game Three on May 10 and climbed 43 per cent during Game Four on May 12 before surging to its highest level of the series during Game Six on May 16, when spending rose 84 per cent above baseline levels. Average transaction counts near the arena increased 47 per cent during that game.
“Home playoff games continue to be a major economic catalyst for businesses near the Bell Centre,” said Sean McCormick, Vice President, Business Development, Data Services at Moneris. “Moneris data shows restaurant spending rose sharply throughout the Canadiens’ second-round series, increasing 37 per cent and peaking at 84 per cent in Game Six.”
The figures reflect the role that playoff hockey plays in driving foot traffic throughout Montreal’s downtown entertainment district, where restaurants, bars, and hospitality venues benefit from large crowds gathering before and after games.
Spending Gains Extend Beyond Downtown Montreal
The economic impact was not limited to the immediate arena area. Moneris reported substantial increases in restaurant spending across Montreal as fans gathered in neighbourhood restaurants and bars throughout the city to watch games.
Citywide restaurant spending rose 96 per cent during Game Three on May 10 and 89 per cent during Game Four on May 12. Spending remained elevated through Game Six on May 16, increasing 53 per cent above baseline levels while transaction counts climbed 34 per cent.
“Moneris data shows the Canadiens’ playoff run drove a citywide lift in restaurant activity, with spending rising 89 per cent in Game Four,” McCormick said. “By Game Six, activity remained elevated at 53 per cent, underscoring how postseason success translates into sustained hospitality gains well beyond the downtown core.”
Away games produced more modest spending increases, according to Moneris, particularly when games took place during weekdays. The company noted that Game Seven, played in Buffalo on Monday, May 18, generated softer restaurant activity because many establishments are traditionally closed at the start of the week.
Live Sports Continue Driving Hospitality Spending
The Canadiens defeated Buffalo 3-2 in overtime during Game Seven on May 18 to advance to the Eastern Conference Final for the first time since 2021. Montreal has since opened its series against the Carolina Hurricanes with a 6-2 road victory, extending playoff momentum across the city.
The transaction data highlights the continued importance of live events and experiential spending for Canada’s hospitality sector. While many consumers remain cautious with discretionary spending, major sporting events continue generating strong restaurant and nightlife traffic in urban markets with engaged fan bases.
If the Canadiens continue advancing through the playoffs, Montreal restaurants and bars could see sustained consumer activity in the weeks ahead as fan excitement continues building across the city.
