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Discover the Best Food and Restaurants in Montreal : A Culinary Tour (2024)

If you appreciate good food and are seeking to discover the finest restaurants in Montreal, then you are in luck! This bustling and colorful city has many culinary options that can accommodate any budget and taste. Montreal has something for everyone, whether it’s traditional French food or innovative fusion recipes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best food and restaurants in Montreal.

Best Food in Montreal: A Culinary Tour

  • Poutine: Poutine is a classic Quebecois dish that consists of french fries, gravy, and cheese curds. The combination of crispy fries, savory sauce, and melty cheese is truly irresistible. Montreal’s best places to try poutine include La Banquise and Ma Poule Mouillée.
  • Smoked Meat Sandwiches: Another best Food in Montreal is the smoked meat sandwich, which features slow-cooked beef brisket cured in spices and smoked to perfection. Schwartz’s Deli is a must-visit spot for trying out this iconic sandwich, and other great option includes Snowdon Deli.
  • Bagels: Montreal-style bagels are smaller and denser than their New York counterparts, with a slightly sweet taste and a chewy texture. Fairmount Bagel is the most famous spot for bagels in Montreal, but St-Viateur Bagel is another popular option.
  • Foie Gras Poutine: For a more upscale take on poutine, head to Au Pied de Cochon for their famous foie gras poutine. This decadent dish features foie gras, cheese curds, and a rich gravy, making it a must-try for foodies with a taste for luxury.
  • Montreal-Style Smoked Salmon: Montreal-style smoked salmon is a delicacy that’s characterized by its sweet and smoky flavor. One of the best places to try this dish includes Hof Kelsten.
  • Portuguese Chicken: Montreal is home to a large Portuguese community, and one of the best food options in Montreal in this cuisine is Portuguese chicken. The chicken is typically marinated in spices and grilled to perfection and is often served with a side of rice and potatoes. Some of Montreal’s best places to try Portuguese chicken include Romados and Ma Poule Mouillee.
  • Japanese Izakayas: Montreal’s dining scene includes several excellent Japanese izakayas and casual bars serving small plates and drinks. Some of the best spots to try izakaya-style dining in Montreal include Imadake, Kinka Izakaya, and Big in Japan Bar.
  • Quebecois Tourtiere: Tourtiere is a savory pie that’s a staple of Quebecois cuisine, featuring a filling of ground meat (usually pork, beef, or a combination of the two) and spices. It is often served during the holidays, but you can find it year-round at spots like La Binerie Mont-Royal and La Binerie Petite-Italie.
  • French Pastries: Montreal’s French influence is evident in its many excellent bakeries and patisseries, which offer a range of delicious pastries and baked goods. Some of Montreal’s best spots to satisfy your sweet tooth include Mamie Clafoutis and Patisserie Au Kouign-Amann.

Top Restaurants in Montreal: Where to Eat

Looking for diversity and delicious cuisine in Montreal? Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets and the fashionable Plateau district serve up some of the finest eateries in the country. In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the top restaurants in Montreal, divided into different categories to help you plan your culinary adventure.

Best Restaurants in Old Montreal

  • Olive & Gourmando: This rustic-looking cafe is popular for brunch, lunch, and coffee. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the sandwiches and pastries are a must-try.
  • Gibbys: This classic steakhouse has been a Montreal institution since 1927. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, and the menu features delicious steaks, seafood, and more.

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Montreal

  • Toqué: Toqué is a flagship restaurant in Montreal. Founded in 1993 by Normand Laprise, the restaurant offers an innovative take on classic French cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on seasonal produce. The restaurant’s decor is minimalist, with an open kitchen and a bright, airy dining room.
  • Joe Beef: Joe Beef is a restaurant in the historic neighborhood of Little Burgundy. The restaurant is known for its rustic decor and exceptional menu, which features horse tartare and lobster spaghetti. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with over 500 kinds.
  • Jerome Ferrer Europea: Europea is a renowned fine dining restaurant highly regarded for its tasty experimental menus and exceptional service. The menu at Europea is carefully crafted to give guests an extraordinary culinary experience. The dishes are visually stunning, and the flavors are a feast for the senses.

Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Montreal

  • Lola Rosa: It is a popular restaurant located in several Montreal neighborhoods, including the Plateau and Downtown. The menu features a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as burritos, salads, and quesadillas. Some popular dishes include the Lola Rosa burger and the vegan poutine, a Quebec specialty made with crispy fries, vegan gravy, and cheese curds.
  • Invitation V: If you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, and organic options, this restaurant in the Plateau’s center is a must-visit. Its cozy atmosphere and inventive menu have made it a hit among locals and tourists. The menu features many delectable dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, and bowls, all crafted from fresh and seasonal ingredients.
  • ChuChai: ChuChai is a fantastic choice for those who love Thai cuisine. This vegetarian and vegan restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Montreal and offers a wide range of Thai dishes, such as curries, stir-fries, and soups. The flavors are bold and authentic, and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for a fulfilling and flavorful meal.

Best International Restaurants in Montreal

  • Satay Brothers: It is a popular spot for those seeking Malaysian street food. The menu features an array of delicious dishes, including satays, laksa, and roti canai. The flavors are bold and authentic, and the dishes are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
  • Damas: Damas is a popular Middle Eastern restaurant in Montreal that offers a unique and authentic dining experience. The restaurant’s menu features dishes inspired by the flavors and traditions of Syria, Lebanon, and Iran. Damas’s cozy and inviting atmosphere and exceptional service make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the diverse culinary scene of Montreal.
  • Kazu: Kazu is a tiny Japanese restaurant in Montreal that offers some of the best sushi in the city. The restaurant’s menu features sushi, sashimi dishes, Japanese-inspired snacks, and small plates. Kazu’s intimate, laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices secure its spot as one of the favorite places in the hearts of people.

Best Brunch Spots in Montreal

  • L’Avenue: A popular spot for brunch with multiple locations across the city. This restaurant is known for its extensive menu and vibrant decor, making it a great place for a fun and lively brunch experience. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional eggs Benedict or fluffy pancakes, L’Avenue has got you covered. Their menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, such as tofu scrambles and tempeh bacon.
  • Le Passe Compose: A cozy French restaurant in the heart of Montreal’s Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood. This restaurant offers classic brunch dishes with a French twist, such as croque-madames, waffles with Nutella and fresh fruit, and quiches filled with seasonal vegetables. The atmosphere at Le Passé Compose is charming and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch with friends or family.
  • Fabergé Restaurant: It is a must-visit brunch spot for unique and creative breakfast dishes. This restaurant takes traditional brunch favorites and adds a twist, such as their breakfast poutine, which features crispy potatoes topped with cheese curds, gravy, and a fried egg. Other menu highlights include their breakfast tacos, served with scrambled eggs, bacon, avocado, and salsa, as well as their huevos rancheros, served with refried beans, salsa, and a side of tortillas.

Best Street Food in Montreal

  • Schwartz’s Deli: Schwartz’s Deli is an iconic Montreal institution that has been serving up some of the city’s best-smoked meat sandwiches since 1928. The deli’s simple and unassuming atmosphere and its delicious and affordable menu make it a must-visit for anyone looking to relish Montreal’s food.
  • Patati Patata: It is a cozy diner that offers delicious poutine and burgers in a classic setting. The menu features a range of creative and satisfying dishes, all made with high-quality ingredients. The poutine stands out, with crispy fries, savory gravy, and squeaky cheese curds. The diner’s retro atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to enjoy a casual and satisfying meal.

Some Other Best Food Joints in Montreal

  • Monarque: Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Monarque is a contemporary French restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s menu features traditional French dishes with a modern twist, and it is known for its exceptional service and sophisticated atmosphere. Monarque’s elegant interior and focus on using special ingredients make it one of the best fine-dine options.
  • Maison Publique: Maison Publique is a neighborhood gem serving contemporary Canadian cuisine, focusing on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s menu features dishes that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of Canada, with a nod to French and British traditions. Maison Publique’s cozy and intimate atmosphere and excellent service are why it is a top pick among foodies.
  • L’Gros Luxe: L’Gros Luxe is a casual restaurant chain in Montreal that offers a unique and eclectic dining experience. The restaurant’s menu includes various dishes, from classic pub fare to vegan and vegetarian options. L’Gros Luxe’s laid-back and quirky atmosphere and affordable prices make it a prime choice for anyone looking for a casual dining spot in Montreal.
  • La Banquise: La Banquise is a Montreal institution known for its famous poutine. Located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, the restaurant offers a variety of poutine dishes, including classic poutine, vegetarian poutine, and even breakfast poutine. La Banquise’s casual atmosphere and affordable prices are perfect for anyone trying Montreal’s most famous dish.
  • Jun I: For sushi lovers, Jun I is a must-visit. This modern sushi restaurant offers a range of traditional and innovative dishes that will impress anyone. The chic atmosphere makes it a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends.

Conclusion

We have covered the best food and restaurants in Montreal for you to choose from among the finest. Montreal is a foodie’s paradise with a range of top restaurants in Montreal to explore. Montreal has something for everyone, whether looking for a casual eatery or a fine dining experience. So, if you are in Montreal or planning your visit here, indulge in this city’s culinary delights. Bon appetit!

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