The Best Bagels in Montreal: Where to Find Them?
Since bagels are a true Montreal specialty, we felt it was time to round up a few top spots for enjoying them at their best. Legend has it they’re even better than in New York… and while you can judge for yourself, we have no doubt—Montreal bagels win every time.
What makes them different? Unlike the New York–style bagel, the Montreal bagel is boiled in honey-sweetened water and baked in a wood-fired oven. The result? A deliciously chewy interior and a golden, slightly crisp crust.
A Bit of History
Montreal’s rich culinary identity owes much to its multicultural roots. Over the years, successive waves of immigration have helped shape the local food scene. Among the most significant influences are the contributions of Eastern European Jews, who introduced iconic staples such as smoked meat—and of course, bagels.
The exact origins of the Montreal bagel are still debated. Some credit Chaime (Hyman) Seligman, who is said to have sold bagels from a horse-drawn carriage before opening a bakery on Saint-Laurent Boulevard around 1900. Others point to Isadore Shlafman—founder of the legendary Fairmount Bagel—and Jacob Drapkin as key figures in bringing bagels to the city.
Celebrate National Bagel Day the Right Way
In honor of National Bagel Day (January 15), we’ve put together a list of great places to grab a warm, freshly baked bagel straight from the oven. A simple pleasure, but one that never disappoints.
A true Montreal institution, Fairmount Bagel has been delighting locals and tourists alike for generations. Originally offering only poppy seed bagels, the bakery introduced sesame bagels after a loyal customer complained that poppy seeds got stuck in his dentures. Today, Fairmount continues to produce hand-rolled, wood-fired bagels that many say are the best in the world.
Another legendary spot, St-Viateur Bagel is deeply embedded in Montreal’s cultural fabric. With two bakeries, five cafés, a food truck, the original shop, and an online store, it has become a global icon. Many chefs and celebrities have made the pilgrimage here. It has inspired books, paintings, photographs, and even films—like Saturday Night at the Bagel Factory.
A must-visit in Laval, Bagel Ste-Rose offers much more than just bagels: think waffles, croque-monsieurs, and hearty breakfast and lunch plates. In the morning, meals come with a heap of fresh fruit and coffee. At lunch, expect soup, salad, pasta or veggie sides, plus a coffee. Don’t miss the signature “Le Ste-Rose”: your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage with poached egg and melted Swiss cheese.
Located in Griffintown, Le Trou is known for its slogan: “It’s the hole that makes the bagel.” These bagels are hand-rolled on-site in true Montreal fashion. Try the “bouche-trous”—their take on bagel holes—filled with cheese, Nutella, smoked salmon, or kept plain and simple.
Found in the vibrant Mount Royal district, District Bagel offers a hybrid concept: classic Montreal bagel bakery meets kosher catering, thanks to its connection with Sandwich Plus. A great spot for both fresh bagels and deli classics.
Also worth a visit
- La Fabrique de Bagel – Traditional and creative flavors
- Beaubien Bagel – Local favorite in Rosemont
- Bagel Etc. – Cozy café with bagels and brunch
- Bagels on Greene – Popular in Westmount
- Bagel St-Lo – Tasty bagels with a great atmosphere
- MTL Bagel – A newcomer making a name for itself
- Bobino Bagel (Gatineau) – The Outaouais’ best-kept bagel secret
- R.E.A.L Bagel Decarie – Classic taste on Décarie Boulevard
