elwood

Arm over your shoulder?  What about those who start massaging your shoulders?  Or even better, the ones who sidle up to you at the bar, strike up conversation, and begin tweaking your nipples or groping you?  (In my experience, the latter fall into 2 groups: the ones trying to con you into lap dances who deliver practically nothing once you agree; and the ones -- often the younger twinkier types -- who enjoy flirting and foreplay.  The latter are almost always good value in the booths.)

Small club entry cash fee. Pay drinks as you go, cash or server’s card reader. No entry fee to take a dancer to private area. Don’t be wary about dancers approaching you for small talk. A tip is not expected or asked for; the principle is nothing ventured nothing gained. Dancers earnings are predominantly from private dances. Once in a while a dancer may get a cash tip while doing his stage show but they don’t circulate off stage as part of the performance. ATM on site for cash if needed. A few bucks charge for each transaction. If you see a dancer taken up chatting on the main bar floor and you aren’t sure it’s culminating in earnings for him, yet you don’t want to interrupt, ask a server to tell him you would like to say hi but it’s implicit you will likely want to go to the private area with him. Polite give and take. Bar Stock, not Campus, has real time video streaming for a subscription fee if you want to get a preview. Watch out for auto renewal charge on that platform as you may need to specify setting expiry. Enjoy. 

Thanks for reporting back!  Always appreciated. 
It can be hard letting a dancer know you are not interested without offending them.   I try to be polite but firm, simply saying no thank you, have a good rest of your night.  

It is great to see Campus doing so well. Stock needs to figure it out because the demand is there. Montreal is a treasure!!

A very pricey advertiser I had hedged on for a while without booking has crossed back over to club dancer income supplementation and it was an unexpected fun (well, discounted, depending on how you look at it) ‘bucket list’ experience. I would probably spring for an off-site hook-up after all, as the sampler was a good forecast. 
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“Maybe later” being essentially interpreted by a dancer as ‘no’ now means ‘yes’ a while afterwards is rare and could be seen as poor comportment if you didn’t explicitly signal a follow-up exchange. I would view it in the context of the psychological difficulty of being repeatedly rebuffed, however gently, and his later lobbing back with a mini-micro aggression, as if you had owed him a less ambiguous but obviously more emphatic decline in the first place. It may have worked occasionally and he has nothing to lose. 
That said, I usually just say, before the private dance interest question even pops up, “Thanks for saying hello” and move away a few steps into the crowd (I stand and circulate as it feels less trapped). I think it might be easier as you have extricated yourself rather than the guy needing to separate from your space following being given your regrets. In my case, I lack ambivalence about whether a private dance is in the cards unless he has already successfully provided in the past, which brings us to …
A related topic is a (the) dancer with whom you have previously had good experiences naturally approaching you but you wish to case the joint for other prospects. That calls for a modified exchange of pleasantries, tact, and intent. I have found that they take it in stride and wait for a cue later without circling back for a status review. 

Thanks for reporting back!  Always appreciated. 
It can be hard letting a dancer know you are not interested without offending them.   I try to be polite but firm, simply saying no thank you, have a good rest of your night.  

It is great to see Campus doing so well. Stock needs to figure it out because the demand is there. Montreal is a treasure!!

Thanks for reporting back!  Always appreciated. 
It can be hard letting a dancer know you are not interested without offending them.   I try to be polite but firm, simply saying no thank you, have a good rest of your night.  

It is great to see Campus doing so well. Stock needs to figure it out because the demand is there. Montreal is a treasure!!

Thanks for reporting back!  Always appreciated. 
It can be hard letting a dancer know you are not interested without offending them.   I try to be polite but firm, simply saying no thank you, have a good rest of your night.  

It is great to see Campus doing so well. Stock needs to figure it out because the demand is there. Montreal is a treasure!!

It sounds like the op may have inadvertently created a feeding frenzy at Campus by hiring a dozen or so dancers in his first weekend visit. The word probably got around amongst the dancers that a new big spender was present. 
 
In order to fend off unwanted approaches, and I have had to do this many times, a customer at the strip clubs needs to have some prepared lines to suit the circumstances. 
 
Newatthis has suggested a few. As he says it’s best to try to be honest with the dancers. If you have no interest in a particular dancer, just thank him for noticing you and say you have your eyes on someone else. Or you are waiting for another dancer to become available. That makes it clear he is not the one. He will understand as they are all in competition with each other. 
 
If you think he might be of interest but are not sure, say you are not wanting a private dance at the moment but he is welcome to chat with you if he has the time. Tell him at the moment you are enjoying the show. 
 
Above all try to be laid back and not seem to anxious about getting dances. It takes some experience to acquire this attitude and successfully project it. 

Thanks for sharing!  I always enjoy hearing about people's Montreal club experiences.
As for fending off unwelcome attention, here's what I do.  I say "I know you're here to make money, and (at the moment) I'm not likely to be doing any private dances because [insert reason here, typically 'I just arrived and want to enjoy the show for a while' or 'I just did some private dances and I'm not sure I'll be doing any more tonight'].  So while it's nice to talk with you,  I don't want you to waste your time with me under false pretenses."  I don't engage in conversation for more than a minute without saying this and I only say "at the moment" if I think I eventually will want to interact with the dancer. 
This has the advantage of being true and of acknowledging what their concerns might be.  
There are many variations.   For example, if I really am enjoying the conversation and would like the dancer to come back, I might say that and suggest it's OK to walk around and check for other interested customers and come back to me later.  

I've lived here since 2017, you are hyping it up a bit too much. You are basing everything based on two visits, years apart lol. Yes things are better than they have been in the past few covid years but nothing is like how it used to be years ago. Nothing has really changed either in terms of getting anything extra. If a dancer does do something extra, they still have to be pretty discreet as the bar doesn't want to get in trouble for that. It's not a brothel. 
The quality of Stock dancers is a joke, 99% of the guys wouldn't have even got an audition back in the day. Once Jasper goes, they really have nothing left IMO. 
All the strip clubs now are frequently full of loud women, I was using the urinal in the tiny Campus bathroom last week when one walked in with her small dog. She was waiting for the one stall to open. It told her women have their own restroom upstairs but she didn't seem to wanna walk up there. So just had to piss next to a woman and her dog.

I was there a couple of weeks ago.  My experience was roughly like yours.  Taboo, for many years my favorite, was dead every time I stopped by...no DJ, no customers, and essentially* no dancers (*essentially means one night there was the cutest twink in the world behind the bar -- and no once else.  I asked him about other dancers and he said "just me."  "How can you dance if you have to tend bar?"  "Gerry takes over for me." (Gerry is the long-time manager.)  I told him I'd love to do some dances with him, but needed to see him on stage first -- by now we're clearly flirting.  He jumped up on stage, did some bumps and grinds, showed me his butt and dick, and jumped down.  We did some dances...well worth my time and money. ) (Taboo now has curtains on the booths by the way.)
Campus was pretty lively every time, but not until well past 9:30 pm...I suspect it was even louder and more crowded after I went home.  The new owner has a new business model...no more porn on the screens, but a well-produced, sometimes humorous, montage of the dancers. (I miss the raunch of the old Campus! ) He seems to be drawing a lot of locals who want to hang out with their friends.  I bonded with one dancer who told me that almost all the dancers are straight, and many are refugees from Stock.  That was certainly the vibe I got.  He claimed that most of the women who frequent Campus are themselves strippers in the straight clubs. I have never encountered a problem doing whatever I wanted (or the dancers would allow) in the booths at Campus, no matter how exposed the booths were.
I remarked to my informant, who himself used to dance at Stock, that the outside terrace bar at Stock seemed to be doing good business, He replied that inside was dead, rather like the description I gave above of Taboo. As a result, I never tried Stock. (Sorry @Lucky 😞)
For the record, l'Adonis/Luxe/Expose is now the Red Diamond.  There were dancers hanging around outside when I walked past.  No one to tempt me inside.

Montreal July 11-14
Ste. Catherine Street was marginally busier this year than last.  They have painted dreary rainbow lines on the roadway and here and there disco balls and one large moose all left over from last year.  In my opinion, they need to bring back something like the “Shades of Gay” overhead which made the Village feel festive and special.  Restaurants and bars seemed to be doing good business in the evenings. Still many shops and restaurants closed.  Homelessness is still a problem but we were not accosted by anyone.
Thursday at Taboo there were 5 or six dancers all “twinkie”.  Spent some time with Arturo, Atlas and a tall guy (Sam?). who when asked if he was straight said “I’m open minded”.  They were all OK in the back.  Nothing special.  Atlas cute, slim and fit was really my type.  I’m sure he was of legal age but his aura was so young it was a bit of a turn off. 
Friday went to Diamond Rouge (formerly Adonis, J P’s, Expose) as Taboo, our usual, was having some kind of drag show.  Writing this I realize we hadn’t been there since it was Adonis.  There were about 10 dancers only one (Leo) was what I’d call a twink.  The others were more muscular but not bulky.  All attractive and worth the climb up the stairs for lap dancers.  At my age it is quite an effort. Sorry, I don’t remember names. The guys were fun and good upstairs.  One anglophone even liked classical music and art and even know a little about dance.  A few women in the bar.  All in all, a nice night.
Saturday back to Taboo.  There were about 10 dancers.  Arturo, Atlas and Sam, Cesear, Damien, Leon and others.  Damien is a sweet kid from Chile.  Nice lap dances.  Leon from Toronto a very handsome guy with what used to be called a swimmers build.  Great personality.  One of the best lap dances I’ve ever had.  Sadly, he was going back to Toronto the next day and he didn’t think he’d be back in August when I plan to return to Montreal.  It was a very good night.
Sunday had a late dinner and didn’t go to any bars.  Based on past experience they are dead on Sunday.
Stayed at the Hyatt Place on St. Hubert which is clean and pleasant enough.  Breakfast crowded and food just OK.  We find it convenient not to have to go outside in the AM.  Never saw so many children though.
Sure, it’s not the Montreal it once was but my husband and I had a fun weekend.
 

No reason to apologize.  It is okay to attend the circus of your preference.   Thanks for reporting on the places that you went to and nice to hear you had fun.  

Exciting news awaits the patrons of Stock Bar, the beloved establishment known for its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service ( new administration ). Brace yourselves for the upcoming novelties that are set to elevate the Stock Bar experience to unprecedented heights.
 
Firstly, the anticipation builds as the grand opening of Stock’N’ Soda draws near. This modern and cozy addition is designed to capture the essence of contemporary elegance. Located at a prime spot, it boasts a captivating ambiance that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. The bar is thoughtfully adorned with chic furnishings, and the carefully curated selection of spirits and cocktails is sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseurs. However, it is the spectacular outside terrace that steals the show. Offering an idyllic setting for socializing, it allows guests to bask in the charm of the surrounding street while savoring their drinks. Stock’N’ Soda promises to be a haven for those seeking a trendy and sophisticated experience.
 
But the surprises do not end there. Prepare to be awed by the unveiling of the highly exclusive VIP room within Stock Bar. This intimate sanctuary has been meticulously designed to cater to the needs of the most discerning clientele. With a limited capacity of 20 persons or less, the VIP room ensures an exclusive and personalized experience. The room features its own private bar, serving an array of premium beverages that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Additionally, a state-of-the-art HD TV offers entertainment options for those seeking a touch of diversion. The VIP room at Stock Bar provides the utmost privacy, allowing guests to unwind and indulge in the company of their select companions.
 
The great news is that both spaces are set to open their doors before the end of the month, much to the excitement of loyal patrons and newcomers alike. Whether you are looking for a vibrant social experience in the open air or an intimate setting for a VERY private gathering, Stock Bar's novelties have you covered. Mark your calendars and prepare to be enthralled as Stock’N’Soda and the VIP room redefine the standards of elegance and exclusivity in the realm of bars and lounges.

Stock"N"Soda will be the perfect space to take a short break from the showroom and go have a drink with your favorite dancer in a quieter environment., street view, and change of atmosphere.
The VIP room will be the perfect space for anyone who is looking for more privacy and intimacy.  
The combination of the 3 spaces will create a diversified experience that will meet the more specific needs of the gay clientele.
Have faith, these people know what they are doing.

Thanks for investigating and clarifying things for those of us not (yet) on the scene.  For @Dj Anthony: the comments here are from long-time Stock afficionados who want to make sure you understand what's most important to them.

Yes I agree 👍. We all like to vent our opinions. That's a good thing. Let's all see how things go. As we say in Italian. Piano Piano. Take it slow.  Buffdaddy may head up that way now that Amtrak is running to Montreal again. 

Hi Anthony,
Thanks for the update- much appreciated.   I have been going to Stock since before the Ste Catherine location and admire the work you do. I usually visit about every other month and drop a good amount of money.  

It does seem like there are a good amount of customers, but a shortage of dancers. I don’t know all the reasons for that, but I haven’t been as often due to the roster as is. Compared to how it was pre-pandemic it just isn’t the same. Not trying to be critical, but just providing feedback (which I’m sure you have heard). 
 
I would be willing to pay more for dances, $25 or even $30 if that would attract better talent.  Just a suggestion.  
 
Again thanks for everything. Stock is fantastic and so glad you are addressing the concerns of longtime clientele.  
 
 

Hi Anthony,
Thanks for the update- much appreciated.   I have been going to Stock since before the Ste Catherine location and admire the work you do. I usually visit about every other month and drop a good amount of money.  

It does seem like there are a good amount of customers, but a shortage of dancers. I don’t know all the reasons for that, but I haven’t been as often due to the roster as is. Compared to how it was pre-pandemic it just isn’t the same. Not trying to be critical, but just providing feedback (which I’m sure you have heard). 
 
I would be willing to pay more for dances, $25 or even $30 if that would attract better talent.  Just a suggestion.  
 
Again thanks for everything. Stock is fantastic and so glad you are addressing the concerns of longtime clientele.  
 
 

I just wrapped up a three-day visit to Montreal.  My last visit was pre-pandemic.  I only went to the stripper clubs two of the days:  Wednesday and Friday.  Wednesday at Stock was ladies night.  It was pretty quiet with only three dancers: Ryan, Bran, and a guy I did not recognize.  I had fun with Ryan and Bran plus with the sexy straight bartender Alex.  We laughed about all the good times we had had prior to the pandemic.  I also spent some time over at Campus on Wednesday.  It was more lively than Stock with 10-12 dancers.  I saw former Stock dancer Jordan (Kai at Campus) and we hung out a little bit and reminisced about the old days when he was a dancer at Stock.  Another surprise at Campus on Wednesday was that former Stock dancer Thierry is the weekday manager now.  I almost didn't recognize him as he wears glasses now and he is much smaller than previously.  Probably off the steroids...which is a good thing.  All in all a good time on Wednesday.
It started snowing early Friday morning and continued all day.  I went to Campus Friday afternoon around 4:30pm.  There were about 5 inches of snow on the ground by that point.  A few dancers started arriving around 6:00pm but most didn't start arriving till closer to 8:00/8:30pm.  I again hung out with Jordan (Kai).  I did see former Stock dancer Phillipe come in the bar but he went straight upstairs.  I didn't make it to Stock on Friday as I wanted to get to bed at a reasonable time for an early Saturday flight.  
I stayed at the W Hotel in the Square Victoria area of the city.  Very comfortable with a good breakfast.  I was surprised cause the hotel seemed quite busy with a large business group staying there.  
All in all, I had a good time in Montreal.  I currently have no plans to return until it gets a bit warmer...perhaps in May.
 

Went to Campus Friday November 5 around 11:30 pm and it was packed.  Seems people are getting out. Club is now open until 3:00 am on weekends. I counted around 10 dancers. Some I recognized from before Covid. A few were really big dudes.  
Hopefully now that customers have returned, the dancers will follow. 
 
Didn’t bother to try Stock.  Maybe next time.  

Went to Campus Friday November 5 around 11:30 pm and it was packed.  Seems people are getting out. Club is now open until 3:00 am on weekends. I counted around 10 dancers. Some I recognized from before Covid. A few were really big dudes.  
Hopefully now that customers have returned, the dancers will follow. 
 
Didn’t bother to try Stock.  Maybe next time.  

Went to Campus Friday November 5 around 11:30 pm and it was packed.  Seems people are getting out. Club is now open until 3:00 am on weekends. I counted around 10 dancers. Some I recognized from before Covid. A few were really big dudes.  
Hopefully now that customers have returned, the dancers will follow. 
 
Didn’t bother to try Stock.  Maybe next time.  

His body is ridiculous.  Love that bubble butt.   

Me too, it makes life so much easier than keeping count in your head, lol.