The most beautiful restaurants in Montreal: where to find them?
What are the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal? It is often said that we eat with our eyes as much as with our mouths. A dish is always more enjoyable when the talent and effort of the chefs match the meticulous care put into its presentation. A truly great meal in a restaurant is judged not only by what’s on the plates and in the glasses, as well as the quality of service, but also, quite often, by the setting in which it is savored.
Just like its menu, a restaurant’s décor is a physical reflection of the dedication of both its restaurateurs and owners. The right lighting, carefully chosen furniture, and a well-thought-out layout can elevate the dining experience, making it even more immersive. After all, the atmosphere in which we dine plays a significant role in shaping our overall perception of the experience.
From lighting fixtures to furniture, from the space itself to its organization, each of these restaurants stands out for a unique reason. They create unforgettable moments, transporting us through time and space. We feast with our eyes, not just on the plates but on the restaurants themselves. No matter the occasion—big or small—explore our list of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal and treat yourself to a delicious meal in an unforgettable setting on your next outing.
For an elegant night out, check out our list of Montreal’s most stunning bars! On warm summer days, discover the most beautiful restaurant terraces in Montreal, as well as the city’s finest bar terraces. And finally, why not enjoy a coffee in one of Montreal’s most picturesque cafés?
Restaurant Île de France - Le 9e
On the 9th floor of the Eaton Centre, Île de France restaurant is a true piece of history. The menu features classic French and Quebecois dishes, prepared with impeccable technique and updated for modern tastes. The space is heritage-protected and has been meticulously recreated, staying true to the décor designed by Jacques Carlu in 1931. Simple and elegant, the setting is an architectural gem. And the view is absolutely spectacular!
Montréal
Gentile Pizza Parlour
Gentile Pizza Parlour is THE go-to pizzeria for all of Westmount. When it comes to décor, it channels 1980s New York with just the right touch of retro and plenty of elegance. This stunning setting is the result of a collaborative effort—Anthony had a vision, and Zébulon brought it to life. “It’s a bit of a nostalgia trip, a memory exercise,” explains the designer.
Westmount
BAR ST-DENIS
Despite what its name might suggest, Bar St-Denis is actually a restaurant. While it’s perfectly acceptable to drop by for a martini or a glass of wine, it would be a real shame not to sit down and enjoy a meal in this stunning establishment—where the food is truly exceptional.
Montréal
Romies
The space was designed with the help of Annika Krausz, known for her work at Bar WILLS and Lawrence. Together, they created a completely open, elegant, and comfortable interior, blending industrial elements with a mid-century aesthetic. The dining room features deep wine-red leather banquettes, candlelit marble tables, and warm wooden walls adorned with black-and-white photographs taken by Krausz’s grandfather, the renowned artist Tibor Krausz Thomas.
Montréal
Dorsia
Located in Old Montreal, at the intersection of Notre-Dame Ouest and Sainte-Hélène, the space is truly stunning. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant elegance of the 1980s, the modern décor was designed in collaboration between David Dayan, Jason Lamarre, and Ivy Studio. The 90-seat restaurant features rich wood paneling, travertine, marble, mirrors, and sleek lines, complemented by striking light fixtures. The ambiance evokes influences from London and Paris.
Montréal
Nama Omakase
Guillaume Menard is responsible for the design of the restaurant, preserving the raw character of the materials with a touch of refinement. The space is welcoming, with its brick walls, stone columns, and a cozy ambiance. Located in the Business District, the restaurant stands out for its versatility. It’s the perfect spot for an after-work drink with colleagues, a romantic date, or celebrating significant achievements.
Montreal
Le Blossom
It’s often said, and will always be said, that Blossom is by far one of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal! Naturally, the restaurant stands out with its stunning cherry blossom tree, the centerpiece of the dining room. While this is the focal point of the décor, it’s the geometry of Blossom that makes it such an interesting space. Fully integrated around the kitchen-bar, the seating, counter, lighting, and accents follow a layout that makes the visual space highly captivating. Combining a trendy, festive atmosphere with delicious Japanese cuisine inspired by Vietnam, Blossom guarantees enjoyable evenings. The stunning space is the combined work of designer Guillaume Ménard of Atelier Mainor and the vision of owners Dan Pham (Kamehameha Snack Bar, Red Tiger), Viet Truong, and Nam Truong.
Montréal
Emmanuelle Lounge
Nestled on the fifth floor of 2-22, at the corner of Saint-Laurent and Sainte-Catherine, Emmanuelle Lounge is a must-visit spot for a drink or a bite in great company, offering a stunning view of the Quartier des Spectacles. For the design, the team collaborated with Atelier Zébulon Perron, the minds behind the décor of Rouge Gorge, Bar Furco, Café Parvis, and several others. The contemporary décor of the space immediately immerses you in a sophisticated and sensual atmosphere.
Montréal
Le Violon
The play of textures is expertly done: from matte to glossy, wood to marble. “I wanted people to be entertained by the décor while eating. We positioned the lights so that when you move your head from one place to another, the light moves with you in the space,” explains the chef. The décor is minimalist, elegant, and the attention to detail is undeniable. Nothing has been left to chance. From the wine cellar—“There’s something romantic about having a wine cellar right in the middle of your dining room.”—to the speakers and the glass partitions separating the kitchen from the dining room, not to mention the bar stools and the finishes of the counters.
Montréal
Damas
The beauty of Damas lies as much in its décor as in its ability to transport you. Stepping into the restaurant means moving directly from Van Horne Avenue into a setting straight out of the golden days of Syria. More colorful than others in its appearance, Damas exudes refinement through the richness of its décor. The restaurant combines simplicity and complexity in its design. Simple with its minimalist furniture, cutlery, and utensils; complex with its stunning moldings, mosaics, tiling, and the patterned chairs that draw from the beauty of Syrian culture. Add to that the red ceiling and soft yet present lighting, diffused by the many lamps throughout the space, and you have one of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal— a creation of chef and co-owner Fuad Alneirabeie.
Montréal
Le Serpent
Le Serpent is not only one of the best Italian restaurants in Montreal, but it is also one of the most beautiful! Sharing its building with Fonderie Darling, Le Serpent gets its name from the spiral chimney on the roof, which was once used to evacuate fumes from the molten metals worked by the foundry. This anecdote sets the context for the restaurant’s space, which is located in a former industrial area. The key word here is minimalist, as envisioned by Annie Lebel and Hubert Marsolais. Black and white dominate the space, complemented by simple and straightforward furniture. The star of the restaurant is above the guests’ heads: Le Serpent is illuminated by impressive hanging light fixtures that cast a soft glow over the place in the evening. During the day, light pours in from the large frosted windows, bathing the restaurant in natural light.
Montréal
Rôtisserie La Lune
The space at Rôtisserie La Lune was designed by Zébulon Perron, heavily influenced by cabinetmaker Antoine Chouinard and the vision of the owners. Upon entering, you are greeted by a majestic owl, the symbol of the restaurant, engraved by Antoine himself on the imposing wooden door. As you step into the spacious 70-seat dining room, you are immediately captivated by the warm tones of the décor and the skillful play of light and textures created by Zébulon. While the large bar immediately catches the eye, there is also a small porthole in the kitchen wall, cleverly positioned to offer a glimpse of the rotisserie where the poultry turns. The overall feel is both contemporary and timeless, with a touch of poetry and mystery.
Montreal
Leméac
When thinking of Leméac, one immediately imagines a chic brasserie with French-style cuisine and delectable menus. The décor of Leméac takes you on a journey not only through time but also through space. You’re transported to an earlier era of France, with a warm and refined atmosphere. Located at the corner of Avenue Laurier Ouest and Rue Durocher, the restaurant is bathed in beautiful natural light almost all day long. The walls and ceiling of Leméac are enriched with dark wood, complemented by the whiteness of the tables and the warmth of the seating that lines the large bar with about ten spots. The décor of the establishment was designed by the late Luc Laporte, an exceptional Montreal architect.
Montréal
Foxy
If the décor of Foxy could be summed up in one word, it would likely be cozy; and if the atmosphere had to be described in one word, it would be festive. The décor is the result of the imagination of the owners and the expertise of Éric Filtreau and his team at MO Design Workshop and Architecture. The space is long and narrow, with a bench and its kitchen station along one side, and a bar with more than ten seats on the other. The décor of Foxy evokes a modern woodland, with its clean lines, thoughtfully designed visuals, and copper accents. That said, in terms of design, the lighting takes center stage; in addition to their interesting shapes, the organic-shaped light fixtures at the back of the room provide the restaurant with that perfect, soft glow that everyone loves.
Montréal
Bar George
Another true Montreal gem that takes you back in time, Bar George is located in the former residence—now a heritage building—of Sir George Stephen, founder of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Completed in 1883, it would take nearly a century and a half before the building’s exterior was fully restored and Bar George opened its doors in 2017. Designed by Metaphore Design, the interior of the bar and restaurant cleverly respects the building’s historical heritage. The entire space is covered in wood, giving Bar George a grandeur that feels straight out of the last century. There are two main sections: the bar and the restaurant. The bar features lighting and a somewhat reddish appearance, while the restaurant plays with shades of green, paired with the black tufted armchairs, all enhanced by a stunning wall tapestry. This is truly a gem of Montreal’s history!
Montréal
L'Express
When talking about L’Express, it’s only natural to mention the word institution in the same sentence. Opened on December 19, 1980, the restaurant is also famous for its décor, designed by the late Luc Laporte, a renowned architect in his field, with a design that has remained unchanged for over 35 years. Like a time capsule, within the four walls of L’Express, you’ll find a small piece of the 80s. The ambient hum, the elegant uniforms of the staff, the clinking of utensils, and the sound of the workstations—all seem to come from another time when taste and refinement reigned! Divided in the center by a small wall, the restaurant has the dining room on one side and a long zinc counter on the other, creating the atmosphere of an elegant brasserie, complete with beautiful red leather bar stools. The space is incredibly warm and inviting—and what can be said about the stunning tilework that guides customers through the restaurant?
Montréal
Jatoba
A restaurant with excellent Asian cuisine, Jatoba is one of those establishments that dramatically changes from day to night. Designed by Amlyne Phillips of Chambre Design & Co, the décor of the restaurant exudes warmth, conviviality, and comfort thanks to the materials used throughout the space. Wood, brick stone, marble, and greenery are combined with magnificent pillar and molding structures. During the day, Jatoba is beautifully lit, especially by its large windows; in the evening, Lambert & Fils lighting fixtures add an extra touch to the inviting character of the place. In terms of design, this is truly one of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal.
Montréal
Le Filet
Le Filet, like many restaurants, has a dining area adjacent to its bar. However, unlike many others, it boasts its own scenography and almost perfectly divides its space into two distinct atmospheres. Starting with the cenote (a collapsed group where water collects, allowing marine life to thrive beautifully). Located at the center of the restaurant, this reconstruction of an aquatic universe brings the space to life. The décor, designed by owner Hubert Marsolais and architect Annie Lebel of the firm in situ, is harmoniously divided by ambient lighting that, in the dining area, creates a bright atmosphere, while on the bar side, it becomes darker and more subdued. The separation is beautifully executed, making the composition of the space particularly interesting.
Montréal
Estiatorio Milos
In Montreal, the restaurant Milos needs no introduction. In addition to being one of the best Greek restaurants in the city, it has become synonymous with class and meals of the highest quality over time. The already impressive Milos location was given a makeover in 2015. The restaurant’s dining room embodies refinement, all in white and adorned with drapes to enhance the lightness of the space in certain areas. Some parts of the room are made cozier thanks to delicate lighting. However, what remains truly impressive is the stunning fresh fish bar open to the dining room. One can see all the fish that will be used in the upcoming dishes at Milos. The restaurant is perfect for anyone seeking a particularly elegant evening.
Montréal
Elena
In its appearance, Elena is a restaurant that is both joyful and elegant. Designed by the talented Kyle Goforth, who also designed Boxermans and Bar Loïc, the space evokes a retro-style Italy. The base of Elena’s canvas is clear and minimalist, with white walls and light wood floors. On top of this, dynamic furniture in interesting colors, textures, and materials adds flair. Marble tables are combined with several blue velvet chairs and purple and orange banquettes. On the bar side, to bring it all together, Elena uses the blue of its chairs as accents, complemented by bold colors and textures. The space also includes yellow-painted metal structures, completing the look. Elena is festive and summery in its décor.
Montréal
Jellyfish
Francis Rodrigue and Roberto Pesut, the owners, have given their restaurant a unique look. The style of Jellyfish Crudo+Charbon reflects several design philosophies. The space, with its industrial vibe and high ceiling, is illuminated by a multitude of chandeliers. Guests are comfortably seated at sleek wooden tables. French shutters cover the restaurant’s pillars. One of the fully windowed façades features period tiling. Painted portraits adorn some of the walls. The underside of the bar, which acts as a central island, casts a soft green light onto the floor. So many distinctive elements come together here to offer one of Montreal’s most beautiful restaurants. The décor of Jellyfish Crudo+Charbon is dynamic, eclectic, and simply harmonious.
Montréal
Lawrence
Lawrence has completely updated its décor! Once again benefiting from the creative talent of co-owner Annika Krausz, a gifted designer, the space has gained a touch of maturity and chicness while maintaining its welcoming vibe. Two complementary color variations were used here: orange and blue. This combination, familiar to the human eye, adds to the charm of the place. Some walls are painted in a deep royal blue, while another is entirely covered with beautiful earth-toned ceramic tiles. A semi-circular island counter has been added to the center of the restaurant. This simple addition makes this part of the restaurant a gathering point, inviting guests to enjoy the newly revamped Lawrence.
Montréal
Mon Lapin
Mon Lapin, the wine bar, opened its doors in early March 2018 and perfectly adds to the list of excellent restaurants in Petite-Italie. And once again, they excel. Located at the corner of Saint-Zotique and Casgrain streets, Mon Lapin benefits from the beautiful natural light at the end of the day! The space, with about thirty seats, is open and welcoming: white walls, red wine leather banquettes, and wooden tables. Everywhere, you’ll find lovely flowers and other arrangements, giving the room a springtime feel. On the walls, you’ll amusingly spot several paintings inspired by rabbits, the forest, and hunting. Some paintings by Peter Hoffer, found in other restaurants of the group, adorn the walls, along with pieces by David McMillan, Frédéric Morin, and several other employees from the family—what a wonderful touch! The charming space of the restaurant was designed by the owners. Mon Lapin feels like a kitchen party every night.
Montreal
Montréal Plaza
Montréal Plaza is the restaurant by Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson on Plaza St-Hubert. The restaurant immediately grabs attention with its beautiful glass doors and neon chicken sign. Once inside, there’s no disappointment. The decor is a blend of “Zébulon and Charles-Antoine,” or “Charles-Antoine by Zébulon,” but not too fancy. The place is chic and elegant, yet the atmosphere remains laid-back. The decor evokes that of a classic brasserie, with a few whimsical touches by Charles-Antoine: an upside-down house rotating above the table facing the kitchen, a somewhat disorganized workshop next to Charles-Antoine’s desk, smurfs scattered throughout, and more.
Montréal
Monarque
Monarque stands out at first glance due to its spectacular space, which impresses with both its beauty and grandeur. The blend of raw and rich materials gives the venue an elegant, chic, and classic look, worthy of the finest restaurants in the world. The Monarque is a place to experience not only its magnificent space but also to appreciate the thoughtfulness of every detail, from its exquisite gourmet cuisine to the attentive service. One word: Wow!
Montréal
Ryu
Ryú Westmount, which opened its doors in August 2018, offers excellent Japanese cuisine in a stunning setting. Designed by Ménard Dworkind Architecture & Design (the team behind Le Blossom, Red Tiger, and Kamehameha Snack-Bar), the space exudes elegance and modernity. By day, the Ryú Westmount dining room is filled with natural light, while by night, it transforms into a chic and cozy atmosphere. Ryú is considered one of the best Japanese restaurants in the city, serving some of the finest sushi in Montreal!
Westmount
Hiatus Restaurant et Bar
Hiatus is a stunning restaurant located at the top of the Ville-Marie Tower, in the heart of downtown Montreal, and it opened its doors in August 2023. This venue offers a breathtaking culinary experience with a spectacular view of the city. On the 44th floor, there is the Rose Orange terrace, a beautiful spot to enjoy delicious cocktails during the summer, especially at sunset, with a jaw-dropping view. One floor up is Sora 45, a sushi bar, while the dining room, bar, and kitchen are located on the 46th floor. For business people, there are even private meeting rooms available.
Montréal
Henri Brasserie Française + Lounge
Henri Brasserie Française is a splendid restaurant located in downtown Montreal. The decor, designed by Zébulon Perron, is truly stunning, with magnificent windows, rich materials, and towering ceilings defining the space. The ambiance is sophisticated and classic, reflecting the historic building it occupies. It’s a fantastic spot to discover in the heart of downtown.
Montréal
Casavant
What strikes you immediately upon arriving at the corner of Drolet and Castelnau is the stunning decor. Created by Menard Dworkind and inspired by the art deco style of the 1920s and 1960s, the space is simply beautiful! The restaurant, located at the street corner, benefits from incredible natural light. It also has a large window opening onto Castelnau Street, with a long orange banquette welcoming guests. “It was important for us to integrate art into the restaurant. We’re lucky to have the painting Back End by Nicolas Grenier, parquet designed by Guillaume Menard, a ceiling fresco drawn by designer Vanille Windenberger, and an Italian Medusa lamp by Carlo Nason.” For the connoisseurs, as they say, “there’s some really beautiful stuff!”
Montréal
Miracolo
Miracolo certainly shares a family resemblance with its two big brothers, but it stands out with its own distinct character. You can clearly feel the influence of Richard and Thomas, who worked closely together to create the decor. There’s a noticeable nod to filmmaker Wes Anderson (especially The French Dispatch) and to Italian films from the 1950s. The decor, which is eclectic, is dominated by warm tones and illuminated by grand golden chandeliers, schoolhouse lamps, and industrial-style pendants.
Montréal
Dandy
Dandy, comfortably nestled in Old Montreal, is open for breakfast and lunch. The place serves as a refuge for locals who wish to escape the bustling outside world. Inside, Dandy gives the impression of being in a private club. While the space feels airy and easy to move through, the restaurant stands out for its retro-modern touch within the magnificent building. The decor invites visitors to unwind, making Dandy a standout spot on this list.
Montréal
PALMA*
Opened in October 2022, PALMA* is located on the second floor of 100 Peel, right in the heart of Griffintown. This chic, oasis-like restaurant is the perfect spot to impress on a date or enjoy a festive evening with friends. As soon as you step into the restaurant, you’re transported to a warm, tropical destination outside of Montreal. The refined decor evokes a luxurious Miami hotel lobby, complete with a jungle of palm trees and plants, velvet green banquettes, and golden light fixtures.
Montréal
MARCUS Restaurant + Lounge
MARCUS, located on the third floor of the hotel, boasts an absolutely magnificent setting with an unbeatable view of the city center. Designed by the expert Zébulon Perron (Montréal Plaza, Un Po Di Piu, Ibérica), the expansive decor is particularly elegant. The designer envisioned a chic and timeless brasserie space, sprinkled with a touch of contemporary art that plays with textures, soft pinks, and greens, all complemented by refined lighting. The space includes a dining area, a lounge perfect for relaxing with a drink, a fantastic bar, and a beautiful terrace that can accommodate up to 300 guests.
Montréal
Oncle Lee Kăo
The space, absolutely stunning, offers 80 seats in a setting that is both warm and sophisticated, making it ideal for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a meal with colleagues. The vast area, designed by the team, stands out with its high ceilings, adding a certain elegance. “We wanted to maintain a chic and minimalist decor, focusing on the simplicity of the noble materials used,” explains Andersen. Wood is omnipresent throughout the restaurant, complemented by touches of burnt orange leather that blend perfectly with the whole. The walls are adorned with Chinese artworks, while a few red lanterns add an authentic and cozy touch.
Montréal
Café Parvis
Le Café Parvis is one of our favorite spots in downtown Montreal. Just a few steps from Place des Festivals, the restaurant is open from early morning until nightfall – and you always leave feeling happy. It was one of the first places to feature a space filled with beautiful plants, arranged alongside lovely touches of wood and raw materials. The restaurant quickly became recognized as one of the most beautiful spaces in the city.
Montréal
Le Boulevardier Restaurant
Le Boulevardier is a beautiful restaurant located in the heart of downtown, offering delicious brasserie-style dishes inspired by Paris in an elegant setting, complemented by impeccable and courteous service. Recently renovated and brand new, the Hôtel Le Germain now houses a bar on the ground floor and a restaurant on the upper floor, both overseen by Bruno Durand.
Montréal
Bar Datcha
Le Kabinet, this small cocktail bar next to the famous nightclub Datcha, has a new mission. After expanding the space, the owners decided to shift the concept and turn it into a restaurant. The interior design and décor, created by the Montreal studio ADHOC Architectes, are impeccable. From the mosaic ceramic tiles to the stunning Ukrainian chandelier hanging above one of the tables, it feels like stepping into the Old Continent.
Montréal
Annette bar à vin
With LG2 Architecture, the owners envisioned a bold and distinctive décor, entirely in green and filled with plants. “We wanted a retro touch, but not too much, with a modern twist,” says Marc-André. The main space, with 65 seats, opens up to the kitchen, which you can admire from a stool at the bar, leaning against the large central counter, or comfortably seated in a booth or sofa. There’s also a small stage at the front that will host guest artists and jazz musicians.
Montréal
Hoogan et Beaufort
Hoogan et Beaufort opened its doors in December 2015 at the edge of the Rosemont neighborhood, in the Shops Angus. The stunning restaurant, under the direction of one of Montreal’s top chefs, has since been the host of many delightful moments in great company. The décor was created by the firm Appareil Architecture, in collaboration with the talented Alexandre Baldwin. With 28-foot high ceilings, beautiful vintage station lamps, and fully restored old bistro chairs — the kind you can sit in comfortably for hours — the space blends modern and antique elements, arranged perfectly.
Montréal
Place Carmin
The décor at Place Carmin is the work of the Clairoux firm, also behind the interior design of Perles & Paddock. At Place Carmin, everything is bright, airy, and inviting, and it’s clear that the renovations were extensive, both in the dining room and the kitchen. The beautiful terrace at the front of the restaurant is expected to once again host joyful moments and will be quite popular.
Montréal
{{ name }}
{{ html }} Read more
