The major action spins around the Casino de Montreux, 9, rue du Théâtre (tel. 021/962-83-83), but don't expect a casino where fortunes are made and lost, or even a particularly impressive architectural monument. The casino here has almost no architectural interest, set in a dull modern building in the heart of town near the lake. Despite that, it can provide some nightlife diversion in an otherwise rather dull town. About 200 slot machines shake, rattle, and roll, along with a handful of roulette tables. There is a small disco open nightly till 4am.
Harry's New York Bar, in Le Montreux Palace, 100, Grand-Rue (tel. 021/962-12-12), is the most convivial watering hole and the first Harry's to be established in Switzerland. There's a Harry's Bar in many European cities today, but this particular example -- managed by one of the grandest hotels of Montreux -- won't remind you of any of them. Once the home of an auto showroom, it underwent an elegant transformation with the installation of rich paneling and touches of brass and leather. The bartenders -- a well-trained crew hailing from almost everywhere -- mix cocktails the old-fashioned way (shaken, not stirred). Most clients come here to drink, but if you're hungry, they serve light but elegant meals.
Another after-dark hot-spot is Caesar's, 515, Grand-Rue (tel. 021/963-75-59), known for its lakeside terrace dances and occasional cabaret.
