Montreal is a paradise for food lovers, offering a rich culinary scene that blends Quebec traditions with international influences. Each neighborhood is home to renowned restaurants, bustling markets, and charming cafés, making the city a must-visit destination for gourmets.
From the famous Montreal-style bagels and iconic poutine to high-end dining experiences, the city has something for every palate. A true gastronomic journey also includes exploring Jean-Talon and Atwater Markets, where fresh local produce takes center stage. To fully immerse yourself, staying at boutique hotels in Montreal enhances the experience, providing personalized service and easy access to the city’s top dining spots. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best culinary destinations in Montreal, from timeless classics to new and exciting flavors.
Classic Montreal Delicacies
Poutine: A Must-Try Dish
Poutine is an iconic Quebecois dish that originated in rural Quebec. It consists of crispy fries covered in rich gravy and fresh cheese curds. Many restaurants serve variations with toppings like smoked meat, foie gras, or pulled pork. You can find some of the best poutine at La Banquise, a 24-hour diner with over 30 different variations. Whether classic or gourmet, poutine remains a staple of Montreal’s food scene.
Montreal-Style Bagels: A Unique Twist
Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than traditional bagels. They are hand-rolled, boiled in honey-sweetened water, and baked in wood-fired ovens. St-Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel are two legendary bakeries known for their freshly baked bagels. Popular flavors include sesame, poppy seed, and everything bagels. These bagels are best enjoyed warm with cream cheese or smoked salmon.
Best Places for Smoked Meat
Schwartz’s Deli: A Montreal Institution
Schwartz’s Deli is synonymous with Montreal smoked meat. Open since 1928, it serves thick, juicy smoked meat sandwiches on rye bread with mustard. The brisket undergoes a meticulous curing and smoking process that enhances its flavor. Locals and tourists flock here despite the long lines. Pair your sandwich with a side of pickles and a cherry cola.
Alternatives to Schwartz’s
While Schwartz’s is famous, other spots also serve excellent smoked meat. Lester’s Deli in Outremont is a great option with a slightly milder flavor. Main Deli, located near Schwartz’s, serves a comparable smoked meat sandwich with less wait time. Reuben’s Deli offers a more upscale dining experience with thick-cut smoked meat.
Fine Dining in Montreal
Toqué!: A Gourmet Experience
Toqué! is one of Montreal’s top fine dining restaurants. Led by chef Normand Laprise, it emphasizes fresh, local ingredients in creative dishes. The tasting menu showcases seasonal flavors and expertly crafted plates. Expect carefully plated dishes like foie gras terrine and maple-glazed duck. Wine pairings and elegant service make this restaurant a must-visit.
Joe Beef: A Meat-Lover’s Paradise
Joe Beef is known for its bold flavors and hearty portions. The menu changes frequently, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include lobster spaghetti and thick steaks cooked to perfection. Reservations are essential due to the restaurant’s popularity. The intimate setting makes for a memorable dining experience.
International Cuisine in Montreal
Chinatown’s Hidden Gems
Montreal’s Chinatown offers a variety of authentic Asian eateries. You’ll find delicious dumplings, dim sum, and noodle soups. Harbin Dumpling serves handmade dumplings with flavorful fillings. For Cantonese cuisine, Restaurant Beijing offers classic stir-fry dishes and roasted meats. Qing Hua Dumpling is famous for soup dumplings bursting with flavor.
Italian Dining in Little Italy
Little Italy is home to some of Montreal’s best Italian restaurants. Pizzeria Gema serves wood-fired pizzas with locally sourced ingredients. Impasto offers fresh pasta dishes crafted with seasonal flavors. Drogheria Fine is known for its famous gnocchi served with spicy tomato sauce. Espresso lovers can enjoy authentic Italian coffee at Café Olimpico.
Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth
Maple Syrup Treats
No visit to Montreal is complete without trying maple syrup-based desserts. Sugar shacks serve treats like maple taffy, pouding chômeur, and maple butter spread on pastries. La Petite Cabane à Sucre specializes in take-home maple products. Whether drizzled over pancakes or added to candy, maple syrup is a Canadian delicacy.
Decadent Pastries and Desserts
Montreal boasts many bakeries serving mouth-watering pastries. Pâtisserie Au Kouign-Amann specializes in buttery Breton pastries with caramelized layers. Mamie Clafoutis offers flaky croissants and fruit-filled tarts. Chocolatier Juliette & Chocolat serves rich chocolate fondue and gourmet brownies. Indulging in sweet treats adds the perfect ending to a food tour.
