The 10 Most Iconic Dishes in Montréal
Here is our list of the 10 most iconic dishes in the city — the ones that leave a lasting impression on our palates, and that we often find ourselves dreaming about.
At Tastet, we like to say that Montréal is the gastronomic capital of the country. And it’s not just out of local pride (although that’s certainly part of the fun). It’s mostly because this city runs on culinary diversity, craftsmanship and bold flavours. In Montréal, people cook with heart, eat with enthusiasm, and celebrate every address that helps shape the city’s vibrant food scene.
We love to cover it all: the little takeaway spots we return to week after week, the neighbourhood cafés that feel like part of the urban landscape, the new restaurants that spark excitement… and of course, the institutions. The ones that transcend trends, draw lines even on rainy days, and whose dishes have become true Montréal rites of passage.
Because in the end, every city has its classics. But ours has a particular talent: it turns simple recipes into cultural emblems, plates into symbols of identity. Yes, there are places we recommend with eyes closed to anyone visiting Montréal… But above all, there are these dishes — the ones we crave after a trip, compare with nostalgia, and passionately defend around a table that’s often a little too small.
So why these dishes, exactly? Because they tell a story. One of a hybrid terroir, a food-loving community and constant creativity. They embody the very essence of Montréal cuisine. They are also dishes that were thoughtfully conceived, meticulously refined, driven by technical precision and impressive execution. Plates where every detail matters, where nothing is left to chance.
Here are the 10 most iconic dishes in Montréal: mythical, comforting, sometimes decadent — but always essential.
And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t worry: we’ve also prepared the list of Montréal’s 10 most iconic desserts. Bon appétit!
Au Pied de Cochon
Le Pied de Cochon is a pillar of Québec gastronomy. First with the Cabane, then with the iconic address on Duluth Street. And as you’ve probably guessed: we’re talking about their legendary foie gras poutine. Crispy fries, a rich and decadent foie gras gravy, a generous slice of seared foie gras… it’s the kind of dish that makes your mouth water just thinking about it.
Montréal
Restaurant Parapluie
Opened only in 2024, Parapluie has already secured a prime spot on Montréal’s culinary map. And if there’s one dish that defines the place, it’s the œuf mayo. A luxurious take: two beautiful pieces of poached lobster, a lightly creamed lobster jus, and a refined tarragon mayonnaise. A little gem of balance and indulgence.
Montréal
Mon Lapin
At Mon Lapin, almost every dish leaves a strong impression, but the croque-pétoncles remains unbeatable. Inspired by Paul Bocuse’s Lyon-style quenelles and the legendary Pierno from Harry’s Bar in Venice, it’s one of the few dishes that never leaves the menu — and it’s easy to understand why.
Montréal
Joe Beef
At Joe Beef, there’s one dish that has reigned for over twenty years: the lobster spaghetti. The recipe has never changed — and that’s a good thing. A generous nest of spaghetti topped with a lobster and tarragon cream, finished with beautiful pieces of lobster still in the shell. Pssst… we even have the recipe!
Montréal
L'Express
It’s impossible to talk about institutions and emblematic dishes without thinking of L’Express. Since 1980, this legendary address has been delighting Montréalers. Among its must-haves: the steak frites. A tender hanger steak topped with perfect shallot butter, served with fries that are as crisp as they are essential.
Montréal
Montréal Plaza
Every summer, when tomato season arrives, the tomato sandwich makes a triumphant comeback at Montréal Plaza. A Québec classic reinvented with the creativity and perfectly controlled exuberance of Charles-Antoine Crête.
Montréal
Pasta Pooks
Pasta Pooks quickly established itself as the address of 2025. From the moment it opened, the small fresh-pasta counter drew crowds of people eager to taste Luca’s creations. The standout dish? The ricotta–spinach ravioli with sage butter — a recipe refined over the years. And you can taste it: pure perfection in all its simplicity.
Montréal
Estiatorio Milos
People go to Milos for its impeccable fish and seafood, but one side dish has risen to legendary status: the famous fried zucchini. Thin slices of zucchini and eggplant, cut nearly translucent, fried to perfect golden crispness and stacked into a crunchy tower, set atop homemade tzatziki and surrounded by Saganaki Kefalograviera — that salty, crispy cheese that makes the whole thing absolutely irresistible.
Montréal
Leméac
At Leméac, several dishes could have earned a spot on this list, but the one that keeps coming up in conversation is the salmon tartare (especially the truffle oil version!). A timeless classic — and downright addictive. Those who know, know.
Montréal
Mano Cornuto
The crudo at Mano Cornuto is the kind of dish that may look simple at first glance, but it fully awakens the palate. It’s iconic because it perfectly embodies what Mano Cornuto does best: understated elegance, precision of flavour, and an ability to transform an Italian classic into a memorable bite that stays with you long after you’ve left the table.
Montréal
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Photography by Mikael Lebleu
