The 10 Most Iconic Desserts in Montreal
In this list, we invite you on a journey through the 10 most iconic desserts in Montreal. But what exactly do we mean by “iconic”? Here, it’s not just about delicious desserts — it’s about those that are emblematic, the ones people talk about, that keep coming up in conversations among dessert lovers, and that linger in the collective memory of Montrealers and visitors alike. An iconic dessert is one that’s recommended without hesitation, one that embodies the city’s culinary identity and has become an essential experience to discover.
Montreal is a city where culinary creativity knows no bounds, and its dessert scene is a perfect reflection of that spirit. From reimagined classics to bold creations inspired by flavors from around the world, Montreal’s desserts tell a rich, diverse, and delightfully indulgent story. Among our picks are timeless favorites like moist carrot cake or decadent chocolate cake, but also more exotic creations that speak to the city’s cultural richness, such as delicately perfumed panna cotta or mango sticky rice — a symbol of Montreal’s global gastronomic openness. And of course, French staples like île flottante remind us of the European influences that continue to shape the city’s palate.
Although this selection focuses on desserts served in restaurants, it would be impossible to talk about Montreal’s sweet side without mentioning the city’s countless incredible pastry shops.
Get ready to indulge: between tradition, creativity, and elegance, this list will take you on a delicious tour of the desserts that truly make Montreal shine. Each bite is an invitation to explore the diversity, imagination, and sweetness that define the city’s culinary soul.
Without further ado, here are our picks for the 10 most iconic desserts in Montreal.
Leméac
Would a list of Montreal’s best desserts really be complete without Leméac’s famous pain perdu? Impossible! Served with maple caramel and dulce de leche ice cream, this dessert is absolutely irresistible. Many even claim it’s not only the best dessert in the city, but in the entire province. Honestly, we can’t disagree — it’s hard to beat.
Montréal
Mano Cornuto
You’ve probably already guessed that it’s thanks to their tiramisu that Mano Cornuto earns its spot on this list. In our opinion, there’s no question: it’s the best tiramisu in Montreal. With its subtle notes of orange and irresistibly creamy texture, it’s impossible not to finish it.
Montréal
L'Express
L’Express is a Montreal institution for countless reasons: its chicken liver mousse, confit duck legs, steak frites — and of course, its caramel île flottante. Light, airy, and perfectly executed every time, it’s one of the many reasons we were so eager for L’Express to reopen!
Montréal
Romies
When it comes to dessert, you can never go wrong with the classics. That’s certainly true at Romies, with their famous Brooklyn Blackout chocolate cake. Moist and dense, it’s layered with decadent chocolate mousse frosting and topped with cookies & cream whipped cream — the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover, full of nostalgic comfort.
Montréal
Rôtisserie La Lune
Inspired by a friend’s mother’s carrot cake recipe, Marc-Olivier Frappier and his team at Rôtisserie La Lune make what is, without a doubt, the city’s most iconic carrot cake — done in their signature style. It’s also a playful nod to the caramel layer cake from Mon Lapin. “Carrot cake is like spaghetti — I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like it,” says Marc-Olivier. We couldn’t agree more.
Montréal
Sabayon
The desserts crafted by chef and co-owner Patrice Demers at Sabayon are, without question, among the city’s finest. A classically trained pastry chef, his expertise shines through in every bite. The maple and buckwheat financiers are exceptional — a beloved classic from his former pastry shop, Patrice Pâtissier, now served at the end of every meal at Sabayon. And speaking of classics, a special mention goes to the iconic Le Vert — those who know, know!
Montréal
Pumpui
Pumpui is hands down the best Thai restaurant in Montreal, and its popularity is due in part to its legendary dessert: mango sticky rice. This sweet delight combines steamed sticky rice lightly sweetened and drizzled with rich coconut milk, paired with juicy slices of fresh mango. Pumpui’s version is simply unbeatable.
Montréal
Le Filet
Le Filet remains one of the city’s best restaurants — refined, creative, and elegant. Known for its exceptional seafood and impeccable service, it’s a true gem that flies just under the radar. Among its refined dessert offerings, the maple syrup square with crème fraîche and chocolate pecans continues to captivate every palate.
Montréal
Bouillon Albert
At the corner of Rachel and Saint-Denis sits Bouillon Albert, a classic French brasserie paying homage to Paris’s beloved bouillons. Here, you’ll find traditional dishes at friendly prices — and don’t leave without trying their famous profiteroles, generously topped with silky chocolate sauce. These cream-filled choux pastries are the perfect finale to a satisfying meal.
Montréal
Restaurant Parapluie
Located on Beaubien Street, Parapluie is one of our favorite openings of 2024. Under the direction of Robin Filteau-Boucher, the restaurant offers simple yet refined cuisine with remarkable precision. The menu changes often, but some staples remain — like their vanilla panna cotta with olive oil, fleur de sel, honey, and pollen. A dessert that perfectly captures the spirit of the place: delicacy, elegance, and balance.
Montréal
