The Brass Monkey has permanently closed its doors after more than 15 years of serving Ottawa’s music and entertainment community. This article serves as a tribute to the venue’s legacy and provides information about what made it special to so many.
For over 15 years, The Brass Monkey was a cornerstone of Ottawa’s live music scene, offering an unbeatable combination of electrifying performances, craft beverages, and classic billiards. Located at 250 Greenbank Road in Nepean, this 8,000-square-foot venue drew music lovers, sports fans, and those seeking memorable nights out in the nation’s capital until its closure in January 2026.
What Led to The Brass Monkey’s Closure
In January 2026, The Brass Monkey closed after facing significant financial challenges. Owner Scott Ruffo cited multiple factors including the lingering effects of post-COVID recovery, rising operational costs, and the difficult economic climate. “Things just haven’t come back to the way they were pre-COVID,” Ruffo told Newstalk 580 CFRA. The venue, which won the Capital Music Award for Live Music Venue of the Year in 2024, ultimately closed owing $56,037 in rent. Some planned concerts were relocated to the Rainbow Bistro in the ByWard Market.
Entertainment in Every Form: From Live Bands to Casino Games at The Brass Monkey
Beyond music and billiards, The Brass Monkey offered a vibrant mix of entertainment where there was something for everyone. Just as the live bands and pool tables sparked excitement, many patrons found added fun in trying out online casino games – from slots to poker – as a way to keep the energy going between sets or after a night out.
This digital gaming option brings a modern twist to The Brass Monkey’s classic appeal, allowing guests to enjoy quick access to their favourite games from their phones, for those particularly interested in Ontario online casinos, there is this year’s most popular choice for real-money play. With top Ontario platforms offering a range of secure games, players can jump into exciting options like live dealer games, progressive slots, and interactive poker rooms right from their mobile devices. These sites are regulated to ensure fairness, providing guests with trusted gaming options that fit perfectly into a night out at The Brass Monkey. This adds an extra layer to the experience, making it a go-to venue for a well-rounded night out.
For those looking to explore more, The Brass Monkey has much to offer, from open mic nights to big-screen sports broadcasts, all adding to its lively atmosphere.
About The Monkey, Ottawa in Brief
- Hosted thousands of local and internationally acclaimed acts over 15+ years.
- Over 30,000 watts of sound in nearly 8000 sq ft.
- 12 “by the hour” pool tables, house run pool leagues.
- 14 ft video screen with sports on every TV throughout the venue.
- Wednesday Open Mic Nights and Karaoke on Thursdays were beloved weekly traditions
- Was available for private events and corporate bookings
- Won Capital Music Award for Live Music Venue of the Year in 2024.
The Brass Monkey: Ottawa’s Hub for Music and Billiards
The Brass Monkey was often recognized as Ottawa’s hottest Live Music Venue, standing as a testament to the city’s thriving music and entertainment scene. The venue, renowned for its Monkey bar music, distinguished itself as a unique fusion of a billiard hall and a pulsating music venue. Regularly opening its stage to some of the best cover, indie, and tribute bands, it became synonymous with Ottawa live bands.
Visitors were assured an electric atmosphere, complemented by the venue’s expansive 8,000-square-foot space filled with billiard tables, dart boards, and a secluded party room. Adding to its grandeur was a spacious dance floor, which came to life with the Brass Monkey dance, and a state-of-the-art stage that saw numerous iconic performances.
Sports enthusiasts had a treat in store with a 14 ft big screen and multiple flat screens scattered around the premises, ensuring no major game was missed. The Brass Monkey hours catered to both early birds and night owls, making it a preferred spot irrespective of the time.
For those who leaned towards leisurely games, The Brass Monkey was well-equipped with billiard tables, solidifying its reputation as a top pool bar in Ottawa. Whether you were a seasoned billiards player, an enthusiast of the Brass club Ottawa, or just someone looking to enjoy a relaxed game, the venue’s billiards section promised an unmatched experience.
Where Was The Brass Monkey Located?
- Address: The venue was situated at 250 Greenbank Road, Nepean, Ottawa, strategically located to be accessible and convenient for both locals and visitors.
- Nearby Attractions: The establishment was close to Greenbank Square’s restaurants and other amenities, ensuring visitors had multiple options for leisure and dining.
Offerings and Specials That Made It Memorable
Menu Highlights: The Brass Monkey drink specials were a crowd favourite. Their curated drink menu boasted a range of beverages, ensuring there was something for everyone, from classic cocktails to unique concoctions and local craft beers.
Ottawa’s Billiards Bonanza: The Brass Monkey wasn’t just about music; it was also a haven for billiard enthusiasts. Dubbed as a prominent Ottawa pool bar, the venue’s pool tables offered both casual and competitive gameplay experiences. Whether you were a seasoned player or a newbie, the pool tables Ottawa experience at The Brass Monkey was unparalleled.
Monkey Deals: Keeping patrons’ interests at heart, The Brass Monkey regularly rolled out monkey deals – special promotions, offers, and discounts, ensuring a delightful experience that didn’t weigh heavy on the pockets.
Event Roster: The Brass club schedule was meticulously planned, offering a mix of regular events and special features. Whether it was their famed Open Mic Nights or exclusive band performances, there was always something happening at The Brass Monkey.
Live Music and Entertainment Events
When it came to live entertainment in Ottawa, The Brass Monkey was a frontrunner. Their dedication to showcasing a myriad of talents, from indie acts to renowned bands, ensured that there was always something fresh on their event roster. Whether you were a fan of rock, blues, or indie pop, The Brass Monkey’s live music offerings catered to diverse musical tastes.
While there are numerous live music venues in Ottawa, The Brass Monkey carved a niche for itself. What set it apart was its commitment to providing authentic music experiences. Their state-of-the-art stage, sound system, and acoustics ensured that every performance felt intimate and immersive. Moreover, their live music Ottawa tonight feature was a testament to their dedication to keeping the city’s music scene vibrant and dynamic.
Regular Events
Thursday Nights came alive with the Long & McQuade – Kanata Open Mic Night hosted by Jumpin Jimmy Leroux, providing a platform for emerging talents and music enthusiasts.
Special Events
Weekends were reserved for live performances, with both local and touring acts taking the stage. The venue’s calendar was packed with diverse musical acts, ensuring a fresh experience every time.
Atmosphere, Ambiance, and Interior
The moment you stepped into The Brass Monkey, you were greeted by an electric atmosphere that resonated with the heartbeats of its patrons. The interiors were thoughtfully designed, blending modern aesthetics with classic touches. While the official Brass Monkey pics on their website gave a glimpse into the venue’s ambiance, experiencing it firsthand was unparalleled. The lighting, furnishings, and setup all contributed to creating an inviting space where one could relax, enjoy, and be in the moment.
The Brass Monkey exuded a lively and electric ambiance, ensuring visitors felt the energy as soon as they stepped in. The motto, “If Your Life is a Circus, Be the Monkey!”, encapsulated the playful spirit of the venue. With a blend of modern and classic aesthetics, the interiors reflected the venue’s dedication to offering top-notch entertainment in a comfortable setting. The large screens and state-of-the-art stage further enhanced the experience.
Remembering The Brass Monkey
The Brass Monkey was more than just a bar or a music venue; it was an experience. For over 15 years, its diverse offerings, regular events, and vibrant atmosphere promised evenings that were both entertaining and memorable. While The Brass Monkey has closed its doors, its impact on Ottawa’s music scene and the memories created within its walls will not be forgotten. The venue’s 2024 Capital Music Award for Live Music Venue of the Year stands as a testament to its enduring legacy in the nation’s capital.
For those seeking similar experiences in Ottawa, the city still offers several venues that capture elements of what made The Brass Monkey special.
Similar Ottawa Venues Operating in 2026
Live Music Venues:
Rainbow Bistro – Ottawa’s legendary home of the blues and live music
- 📍 Address: 76 Murray St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M6
- 📞 Phone: (613) 859-5123
- ✨ What they offer: Intimate live music venue featuring blues, rock, R&B, funk, jazz, and reggae. Two-story “chalet” atmosphere with a fireplace, balcony seating, and a pool table. Former Brass Monkey concerts were relocated here.
Sports Bars & Billiards:
Tailgators – Ottawa’s largest sports bar and pool hall
- 📍 Address: 1642 Merivale Rd, Ottawa, ON K2G 4A1 (Nepean)
- 📞 Phone: (613) 224-0249
- ✨ What they offer: Over 23,000 square feet with 43 pool tables, 6 foosball tables, 8 ping pong tables, 22-ft jumbo screen, multiple HDTVs, full menu, late-night kitchen, and event space for up to 500 people. No cover for UFC events.
MacLaren’s on Elgin – Downtown sports bar and billiards hub
- 📍 Address: 301 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2N9
- 📞 Phone: (613) 236-2766
- ✨ What they offer: 25 billiard tables ($15/hour), over 30 4K UltraHD TVs including six 90-inch screens, sports memorabilia décor, full food and bar menu. Open nightly with late hours on weekends.
Dooly’s Ottawa – Premier billiards and events venue
- 📍 Address: 2277 Gladwin Crescent, Ottawa, ON K1B 3W9
- 📞 Phone: (613) 260-2311
- ✨ What they offer: 41 pool tables across two levels, two bars, 1000+ inches of Hi-Def screens, no cover for UFC PPV events, in-house catering for groups and private events. One of Ottawa’s most established pool halls since 1999.
These venues continue to serve Ottawa’s entertainment community, offering the live music, billiards, sports viewing, and social atmosphere that made The Brass Monkey such a beloved destination. Whether you’re looking for a night of pool with friends, catching the big game, or experiencing live performances, Ottawa’s entertainment scene remains vibrant in 2026.