Where to Eat in Montreal: The Essential List
Montreal is a city that lives and breathes food. If you’re wondering where to eat in Montreal, you’ll find everything from iconic institutions to buzzworthy newcomers—the city’s culinary landscape is as diverse, creative, and delicious as the people who call it home. Whether it’s a late-night smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli, an unforgettable cocktail at the Cloakroom, or a cozy café serving the best croissant this side of the Atlantic, there’s always something worth tasting around the corner.
At Tastet, our mission is simple: to help you discover the best places to eat—whether you’re a visitor hungry to explore the local scene, or a Montrealer looking for your next favourite table. We believe that food is about more than just what’s on the plate; it’s about culture, connection, and the joy of sharing.
This list isn’t a ranking or a top 10—it’s a thoughtfully curated guide to the restaurants, cafés, counters, and bars that make Montreal one of North America’s most exciting food cities. It’s your go-to resource for figuring out where to eat in Montreal, from timeless classics to rising stars redefining the local food scene.
So, what qualifies as “essential”? Every place here offers something unique, exceptional, or downright delicious—something that reflects the spirit of this city. Our picks are based on consistent quality, originality, and of course, a healthy dose of love from our team and readers.
Bon appétit!
Gibeau Orange Julep
Orange Julep opened its doors in 1932, initiated by restaurateur Hermas Gibeau. Famous for its massive orange structure, it wasn’t until 1945 that this iconic landmark took shape, and it has endured even after the restaurant moved to Décarie in 1966. Once known for its roller-skate car service, this retro establishment remains celebrated for its classic fast food menu and, most notably, for its secret recipe orange juice! It is also part of our list of the best hot dogs in the city. Orange Julep is truly a Montreal icon!
Montréal
St-Viateur Bagel
Bagel St-Viateur is a Montreal institution known worldwide for its bagels. Founded in 1957 by Myer Lewkowicz, the company now operates two bakeries, five cafés, a food truck, the original shop, and an online store. The bagels, baked in a wood-fired oven, are renowned for their quality and unique taste.
Montréal
Fairmount Bagel
Fairmount Bagel, an institution in the Mile End for over a century, is famous for its hand-rolled bagels baked in a wood-fired oven, prepared according to family tradition. This iconic Montreal bakery, still owned by the Shlafman family, offers a variety of around twenty different bagels, all equally delicious.
Montréal
Schwartz's Deli
Schwartz’s is an essential Montreal institution, offering some of the best smoked meat in the city since 1928. Founded by Reuben Schwartz, a Romanian immigrant, the restaurant built its reputation around its excellent smoked meat, prepared through a lengthy process that takes up to 12 days. The charm of this place lies in its unchanged décor, which takes you back to the 1920s in Montreal. Year-round, the lines of customers testify to its well-deserved fame.
Montréal
Cloakroom Bar
The Cloakroom Bar is a chic and intimate speakeasy located within a high-end tailor shop in Montreal. Offering bespoke cocktails crafted according to customers’ preferences, it’s the perfect spot for a 5 à 7 or a night out in a cozy, refined atmosphere.
Montréal
Hiatus Restaurant et Bar
At the top of the Ville-Marie Tower, in the very heart of downtown Montreal, the restaurant Hiatus opened its doors in August 2023. Neighboring Les Enfants Terribles, this venue offers a breathtaking culinary experience along with an unparalleled view of the city. Whether you’re coming for business dinners, a study session, or a meal with colleagues and friends, Hiatus promises a flawless experience—accompanied by the best view in town.
Montréal
Tri Express
Tri Express, located on Laurier East, is an outstanding Japanese restaurant and also one of Montreal’s best sushi spots. It’s owned by Chef Tri Du, who personally creates the menu and sauces with the help of his talented team. Several items remain permanent fixtures, including fan favorites like “new-style sashimis,” “the unexpected” (the famous sushi pizza!), “the divine” (wrapped in a thin cucumber slice), and more. New creations are added daily based on the kitchen’s mood and fresh arrivals. We love Tri Express for its original décor, cozy vibe, and the quality of its dishes—not to mention the prices, which are very reasonable given the high quality of ingredients.
Montréal
ICONOGLACE
Everything at Iconoglace is homemade, even the waffle cones. The “slush” drinks are made with real fruit and organic maple water, so there’s no artificial product! Iconoglace’s decadent sundaes are not only beautiful to look at (and especially Instagrammable!), but they are simply incredible! In addition to their popular location on Bélanger Street, which has been attracting crowds for several summers, the famous brand opened a new address on Laurier West Avenue in 2024 for twice the fun!
Montréal
Stem Bar
Located right next door to the September Surf Café, Stem Bar warmly welcomes neighborhood locals for a laid-back evening in good company. There’s a familiar charm at Stem Bar that echoes the vibe of the September Surf Café—a place where you simply feel at ease, perfect for a relaxed night out in Little Burgundy.
Montréal
Liverpool House
Liverpool House, the little sibling of Joe Beef, is one of Montreal’s top dining destinations. People come for hearty, flavorful meals served in a lively, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant was famously chosen by President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for one of Montreal’s most publicized dinners. Why? Because it’s simply a must-visit in the city—and one of the best English-style restaurants around.
Montréal
Atwater Cocktail Club
Atwater Cocktail Club is a hidden gem located behind the restaurant Foiegwa, frequently ranked among the best bars in Canada and North America. The venue offers a unique experience with its chic décor and delicious, original cocktails. This speakeasy is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in Montreal.
Montréal
Bar Henrietta
Bar Henrietta is a charming neighborhood bar with Portuguese influences, offering a selection of classic cocktails, Quebecois beers, and private-import wines. The establishment also serves small plates of delicious Portuguese-inspired treats, perfect for pairing with a bottle of wine. During the warmer months, it boasts one of the nicest terraces in Montreal!
Montréal
La Buvette Chez Simone
La Buvette Chez Simone was one of the first wine bars in Montreal. In operation since 2008, it still maintains its friendly and vibrant atmosphere, a superb wine list with fair prices, and a simple yet delicious menu. It’s the go-to spot to celebrate both small and big occasions.
Montréal
Le Rouge Gorge
Le Rouge Gorge is a must-visit wine bar on the Plateau Mont-Royal, offering a warm and relaxed atmosphere. With a great selection of wines, exquisite cocktails, and a delicious seasonal menu, it’s the perfect spot for a friendly evening out.
Montréal
Automne Boulangerie
Automne Boulangerie is one of the best bakeries in Montreal! The establishment offers locally sourced, seasonal products in a warm neighborhood ambiance. With a simple décor, it serves a variety of delicious breads, pastries, and house specialties, reflecting the owners’ dedication and passion for their craft, as well as their close collaboration with Quebec farmers.
Montréal
Hof Kelsten
After an impressive culinary training and experience in renowned restaurants, Jeffrey Finkelstein opened Hof Kelsten Bakery, where he offers simple yet top-quality products, both in bread and pastries. The chocolate babka is a particular favorite, and during the holiday season, the incredible panettone is a must-try. A unique bakery in Montreal!
Montréal
Café Olimpico - Mile End
Café Olimpico, founded in 1970 by Italian immigrant Rocco Furfaro, is more than just a café. It’s an institution in Montreal, known for its sporty atmosphere, classic décor, affordable Italian coffees, and exceptional service. It is also famous for its cannolis and iced coffee.
Montréal
Olive et Gourmando
Olive et Gourmando is a warm café located in the heart of Old Montreal, offering delicious pastries, savory brunches, and unique sandwiches. Open since 1997, this café was born from the owners’ desire to create a comfortable space that emphasizes quality. Olive et Gourmando now has a second location at Royalmount.
Montréal
Crew Collective & Cafe
The Crew Collective & Café is one of the most beautiful cafés in Montreal! Located in the former Royal Bank of Canada building, the café offers a coworking space and a place to take a break (or a pose!) in a stunning architectural setting. It provides coworking services, private rooms, and a marble counter where you can enjoy some light bites.
Montréal
Greenspot
Opened in 1947, Greenspot is a deli in the Saint-Henri neighborhood of Montreal, offering a retro and friendly atmosphere. With an unchanged menu, it serves classic Quebec diner fare, including about thirty variations of poutine, and is known for the freshness of its ingredients.
Montréal
Wilensky's
Wilensky’s Snack Bar has hardly changed since its opening in 1932 and has managed to retain its old-school charm. Founded by Moe Wilensky, the establishment is famous for its internationally renowned sandwich, the “Wilensky Special®”! We love its simplicity: beef salami served in a round bun with mustard, served hot and fast! The place, which still has some of its original customers, is a must-visit in Montreal and is on our list of spots to enjoy great lunches for under $10 in the Mile-End.
Montréal
Restaurant Mastard
Awarded one Michelin star, Mastard is chef Simon Mathys and his wife Vicky’s cozy, 54-seat neighborhood restaurant on rue Bélanger. The seasonal menu highlights Quebec’s terroir with refined technique and bold flavors. Warm, intimate, and ingredient-driven, it’s one of Montréal’s most exciting dining destinations. Reservations are essential.
Montréal
Kem CoBa
Kem CoBa means “Aunt 3’s ice cream” in Vietnamese, supposedly a nickname given to Ngoc, the co-owner, by her niece. The spot offers a few delicious homemade ice creams and refreshing sorbets. We love the quality of the products, the original flavors, and the house-made pastries with an Asian influence. Be warned: the lines can sometimes be so long that they leave you dizzy. We recommend visiting during less busy hours for a more pleasant experience.
Montréal
Bernie Beigne
Bernie Beigne, located in the Mile-End, aims to bring back the nostalgia of past days when you could buy an affordable doughnut and coffee in the neighborhood. The concept, initiated by Dean Giannarakis, his father John, and George Giannopoulos, draws inspiration from the working-class history of the Mile-End. It attracts an enthusiastic line of customers with delicious doughnuts at affordable prices, offering a simple and delightful experience in the area.
Montréal
Restaurant Alep
Alep restaurant is a Montreal institution, known for its calm atmosphere and authentic Syrian and Armenian cuisine. Originally a small family business, the restaurant is now run by Jacqueline Frangié and her daughters. Famous for its generous portions and excellent wine selection, Alep is an undisputed favorite. Its little sibling, Le Petit Alep, is also one of our favorite spots in Montreal!
Montréal
Arthurs Nosh Bar
Arthurs Nosh Bar is a charming restaurant in the Saint-Henri neighborhood offering one of the best brunches in the city! It serves delicious Jewish specialties with a creative twist. The atmosphere is always lively, the service is efficient, and the decor is very charming.
Montréal
Au Pied de Cochon
Martin Picard’s cuisine has always been synonymous with abundance and excess. Trained under renowned chefs like Normand Laprise, Jean-Paul Grappe, and Marc Meneau in several Michelin-starred restaurants, he broke many taboos when he opened his restaurant Au Pied de Cochon at the turn of the millennium. Blending haute cuisine with Quebecois tradition and a healthy dose of indulgence (or even gluttony!), his cuisine is a cornerstone of modern gastronomy. Two decades later, the iconic foie gras poutine, a signature dish of the restaurant, continues to attract both tourists and locals. Today, it is Martin’s nephew, Michaël Picard Labelle, who is in charge of the kitchen.
Montréal
BAR ST-DENIS
Le Bar St-Denis is an excellent restaurant offering refined and varied cuisine, tailored to the preferences of its clientele. The wine list, carefully curated, mainly features natural wines. The decor is elegant, and the service is friendly.
Montréal
Restaurant Beba
Beba is an Argentine-inspired restaurant led by brothers Pablo and Ariel Schor, both veterans from the Joe Beef family. The menu is influenced by the gastronomy of their childhood, offering traditional dishes that are simple yet reimagined, all packed with flavor and emphasizing local products. The atmosphere is friendly, the decor is modest, and the staff is welcoming!
Montréal
BOSSA
Bossa is an Italian take-out counter located in Verdun, known for its decadent sandwiches and fine Italian products. Opened in 2018, it attracts a crowd thanks to its ideal location on Wellington Street and its varied selection of Italian delights. A second branch opened on Masson Street in 2022.
Montréal
Bottega
Bottega is one of the best Neapolitan pizzerias and one of the top Italian restaurants in Montreal! The restaurant is run by the Covone family, renowned restaurateurs. Bottega offers artisanal cuisine with homemade products. In addition to the delicious pizzas, the menu features daily specials and delectable pasta dishes, all paired with a selection of Italian wines. The ambiance is chic yet relaxed, perfect for any occasion.
Montreal
BOUILLON BILK
Bouillon Bilk is one of Montreal’s best restaurants! After being destroyed by a fire in May 2024, the establishment reopened at 22 Sainte-Catherine East just two months later. Known for the quality of its cuisine and the professionalism of its staff, this restaurant has become an institution and a must-visit. It offers a unique culinary experience with creative dishes and an excellent wine list.
Montréal
Le Club Chasse et Pêche
Le Club Chasse et Pêche is a must-visit restaurant in Montreal, offering an intimate atmosphere with a decor and menu centered around hunting and fishing. With its elegant and subdued design, opulent yet contemporary bourgeois cuisine, and impeccable service, the restaurant has become an institution.
Montréal
Damas
Damas restaurant offers an exceptional Syrian culinary experience in a stunning setting. The generous dishes, rich in spices and flavors, are served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making Damas one of the best restaurants in the city.
Montréal
Ferreira Café
Ferreira restaurant, opened in 1996 by Carlos Ferreira, is a must-visit address in Montreal that pays tribute to Portuguese culinary culture. With its elegant decor, refined cuisine inspired by Portuguese traditions, attentive service, and exotic wine selection, the establishment has successfully adapted to its clientele’s tastes while staying true to its roots.
Montréal
Fleurs et Cadeaux Restaurant
Fleurs & Cadeaux, a Japanese snack bar located in Montreal’s Chinatown, offers a unique multisensory experience. With its creative and colorful cuisine, an impressive selection of wines and sakes, and a speakeasy hidden in the basement, this spot delivers a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Montréal
Restaurant Hélicoptère
Definitely one of the best restaurants in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood, Hélicoptère has earned its place among Montreal’s top dining spots. It offers one of the city’s best tasting menus at an affordable price. Here, you’ll enjoy delicious local cuisine and a thoughtfully curated wine selection, all in a simple and welcoming space. In spring 2025, both the restaurant and the adjoining Hélico café got a fresh new look and now welcome guests in their beautifully redesigned setting.
Montréal
Hoogan et Beaufort
Hoogan et Beaufort, opened in 2015 in Rosemont, is a stunning restaurant led by one of Montreal’s top chefs, Marc-André Jetté. Located in a former train factory, the restaurant serves refined cuisine that highlights Quebec’s finest products, all in a space that blends modern and industrial charm. Note: the restaurant will be closed from June to September 2025 for renovations in preparation for its 10th anniversary.
Montréal
Impasto
Impasto is one of the best Italian restaurants in Montreal! Led by chefs Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione, this beloved spot in Little Italy has won over locals with its festive atmosphere and professional service. The restaurant serves delicious, authentic Italian cuisine with a Montreal twist, all in a sleek and elegant setting.
Montréal
Joe Beef
Joe Beef is one of Montreal’s most internationally renowned institutions! A beacon of Quebec gastronomy, the restaurant is celebrated for its unmatched hospitality. With a warm atmosphere, a generous and flavorful menu that changes with the seasons, and friendly, professional service, Joe Beef offers a unique dining experience. The intimate, cozy décor, market-driven bourgeois cuisine, and carefully curated wine list make it a must-visit destination.
Montréal
Jun I
Jun I is one of the best sushi restaurants in Montreal—if not the best, in our opinion. Chef Junichi Ikematsu is one of the city’s top culinary talents and has trained many of Montreal’s great chefs. The menu at Jun I is defined by the undeniable delicacy of its dishes and the freshness of its ingredients. Each plate showcases an exceptional level of craftsmanship, often blending Japanese precision with French culinary technique. Jun I is a truly outstanding dining destination—certainly on the pricier side, but well worth it for a special occasion or simply to indulge in some of the finest sushi around.
Montréal
L'Express
L’Express is a cornerstone of Montreal’s culinary scene and a true institution—serving loyal diners since 1980! The menu has remained virtually unchanged for over 40 years, with everything made in-house (except for the bread). From pickles prepared twice daily to signature sauces, the team at L’Express pours love and care into every detail. People return time and again for the irresistible cuisine and for iconic dishes like the sorrel soup, foie mousse, and caramel-topped île flottante—all fixtures on the menu since day one.
Montréal
Le Mousso
Mousso, opened by Antonin Mousseau-Rivard in 2015, is a bold gastronomic restaurant in Montreal. Offering an innovative and flavorful tasting menu, the establishment is known for its elegant atmosphere, culinary creativity, and exceptional service.
Montréal
Leméac
Leméac is one of the best French brasseries in Montreal! This chic and popular restaurant is known for its attention to quality and professional service. With a menu of consistently well-executed dishes, an elegant brasserie atmosphere, and an eco-responsible ethic, it is an institution and a must-visit in Montreal.
Montréal
Mano Cornuto
Le Mano Cornuto is a popular Italian café located in Griffintown, known for its lively atmosphere and cuisine inspired by Italian cafés, which has quickly made it a must-visit spot in Montreal’s culinary scene. The menu highlights both local and Italian products, offering options for every part of the day, while the bar serves a variety of drinks, including cocktails and wines.
Montréal
Estiatorio Milos
Estiatorio Milos is an exceptional Greek fine-dining restaurant in Montreal, offering a high-quality culinary experience since 1979. With authentic Greek cuisine, incredibly fresh and top-quality ingredients, and an elegant atmosphere, it is recognized as one of the best dining spots in the city. This reputation extends to all the cities around the world where it welcomes its clientele.
Montréal
Mon Lapin
Voted the best restaurant in Canada in 2023 and 2024, Mon Lapin is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after dining spots in Montreal – and rightfully so! Co-chefs Jessica Noël and Marc-Olivier Frappier continue to amaze us with their creativity and consistency. The kitchen is supported by an experienced front-of-house team led by Marc-Antoine Gélinas, with sommeliers Vanya Filipovic and Alex Landry curating a spectacular wine list. All of this is set in a stunning decor designed by Zébulon Perron. MAG-NI-FI-CENT.
Montréal
Monarque
Monarque is one of the best French restaurants in Montreal and one of the most beautiful. A true city staple, this project is the work of father-son duo Richard and Jérémie Bastien, respectively a restaurateur and an outstanding chef. Monarque impresses with its spectacular space, elegant and chic decor, and its delicious, refined menu.
Montréal
Montréal Plaza
Founded by chefs Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson, Montréal Plaza is one of the best restaurants in Montreal! Here, you’ll find a selection of delicate and flavorful dishes that showcase seasonal products. The décor of Montréal Plaza is both elegant and whimsical, featuring elements like an upside-down house spinning above a table near the kitchen and Smurfs scattered throughout the space. This playful ambiance adds a unique touch to the culinary experience.
Montréal
Nora Gray
Nora Gray is an unmissable Italian restaurant in Montreal, one of the best Italians and one of our favorites! Known for its team of professionals, lively atmosphere, cozy decor, and simple yet exquisite menu, the establishment is celebrated for its exceptional homemade pasta and has been named among the best restaurants in Canada!
Montréal
Pumpui
Pumpui is one of the best Thai restaurants in Montreal and definitely one of our favorites! Chef Jesse Mulder learned to cook Thai specialties during his travels in Thailand and his internship at Nahm in Bangkok. The dishes are absolutely delicious and transport you with every visit! Pumpui offers a menu primarily focused on Thai cuisine, with a few influences from Southeast Asia. The dishes, especially the curries, are comforting, authentic, and incredibly tasty.
Montréal
Satay Brothers
Satay Brothers is one of our favorite restaurants in the city and one of the most popular among lovers of refined Asian cuisine. The restaurant offers classic street food dishes from this part of the world. With a capacity of 130 seats, a counter at the Atwater Market, and catering services, Satay Brothers has become an essential spot for a dinner with friends or colleagues, a birthday, or any other occasion to celebrate.
Montréal
Toqué!
It’s hard to talk about Quebec gastronomy without mentioning Toqué!, the place where it all began. In three decades, Chef Normand Laprise and his partner Christine Lamarche have built a network of small producers across the province and have trained an entire generation (or even two or three!) of chefs and restaurateurs, many of whom now lead some of the most renowned establishments in Montreal – Martin Picard, Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson, Dyan Solomon, Mélanie Blanchette, Hubert Marsolais, Luca Cianciulli, and many more. To this day, Toqué! remains a must-visit destination and one of the best restaurants in Quebec.
Montréal
Maison Boulud
Maison Boulud, the restaurant of the chic Ritz-Carlton Hotel, is probably the most chic (and most expensive) address on this list, but it also claims the top podium in the competition for best restaurant in our books. Romain Cagnat, the elegant and very talented chef from Burgundy prepares dishes that are out of the ordinary and characterized by his classic French accent. The terrace adjacent to the restaurant’s dining room is also well worth the trip – it’s one of the most beautiful terraces in Montreal. We particularly love the elegance that exudes out of every corner of this restaurant, from the decor and service to the menu and wine list. The elegantly opulent address is a unique place to spend a special gastronomic evening. Maison Boulud
Montréal
Restaurant La Chronique
La Chronique is one of the finest upscale restaurants in Montreal. It ranks among the best French restaurants in the city and is also a place where you can actually hear yourself speak. After all, going to a restaurant is more about enjoying what’s on your plate than dancing on tables in a lively atmosphere. People come to La Chronique to be amazed by the food. Regular patrons know that they will always enjoy an excellent meal, with consistency and precision being hallmarks of this establishment. In the kitchen, Marc and Olivier de Montigny craft one of the best menus in town within their category, offering a French-inspired selection that evolves with the seasons and the freshest ingredients available.
Montréal
Bar George
This is, without a doubt, one of Montreal’s most beautiful establishments. The venue offers an exceptional English-inspired menu in a plush and elegant setting. Guests come here to enjoy small bites at the bar throughout the day and late into the evening—think pâtés, tartares, hamburgers, smoked fish, ploughman’s plates, chicken liver, steak frites, and more. The cocktails are incredibly delicious, and the wine list is impressively curated.
Montréal
La Bête à Pain (Griffintown)
La Bête à Pain is one of the most beloved bakeries in the city—and a proud entry on our list of Montreal’s best croissants.The venue serves as a café, an organic bakery, a mini restaurant, and a small catering spot. It’s owned by the talented baker Marc-André Royal. In addition to preparing mouthwatering breakfasts and lunches, the chef crafts decadent pastries of all kinds. A bright and unique destination well worth discovering in this part of town.
Montréal
Kitano Shokudo
Kitano Shokudo is one of the best—if not the best—Japanese restaurants in town. The menu features simple dishes made with top-quality ingredients. Run by just two people, the service is sincere and the décor minimal, but what arrives on your plate is truly unforgettable. It’s a favorite not only among chefs, but also among our team!
Montréal
Rôtisserie La Lune
La Rôtisserie la Lune, the highly anticipated new project from the owners of Mon Lapin, opened its doors in December 2024. Located in the same neighborhood, this fresh spot pays tribute to traditional Quebec-style rotisserie—but with the team’s unmistakably creative and unique signature.
Montréal
Restaurant Parapluie
It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Parapluie, a neighborhood restaurant led by Chef Robin Filteau-Boucher. Tucked into a cozy spot on Beaubien Street between Clark and Saint-Laurent, this bistro blends French and New York influences into a menu that’s both delicious and affordable. Be sure to try the signature egg mayo, the “MTL” trout, and the famous fries—now house staples.
Montréal
Casavant
Just steps from the Jean-Talon Market, Casavant offers a French brasserie-style experience that delights with its stunning décor, welcoming atmosphere, and delicious, well-priced menu. Casavant proudly embodies everything we love about the hospitality industry: effortless warmth and flawless execution. It sounds like one of those spots where everything—from the first hello to the final bite—feels just right. If you’re assembling a full review or curating a foodie guide, I’d be thrilled to help you stitch the pieces together or add some extra charm. Let’s make something worth savoring! 🍽️✨
Montréal
Pasta Pooks
Pasta Pooks is a counter-style eatery serving up mouthwatering fresh pasta and generous sandwiches, founded by a group of passionate friends. Located in the former Dinette Triple Crown space in Montreal, the project is set to evolve in several phases. For now, they offer a handful of handmade pasta dishes each day—and they’re absolutely divine!
Montréal
Gia Vin & Grill
Gia Vin & Grill, the latest addition to the Elena family, offers a delectable Italian dining experience in Montreal. Located in a historic building, the restaurant serves traditional grilled dishes from the Abruzzo region, exquisite wines, and an interior design that instantly transports you to Italy.
Montréal
Romies
This contemporary American bistro now occupies the iconic space at 465 McGill Street, formerly home to Boris Bistro. Created by the talented duo Alexandre Cohen and Raegan Steinberg—also behind Arthurs Nosh Bar—this new destination is poised to become an instant classic.
Montréal
Restaurant Île de France - Le 9e
The news that Eaton Centre’s iconic 9th floor and its lavish restaurant Île de France were set to reopen made quite a splash early this year. In fact, it was our most-read article of the entire year! To bring this project to life, the developers called upon trusted professionals: chefs Derek Dammann (formerly of Maison Publique and McKiernan) and Liam Hopkins (McKiernan, Park), maître d’hôtel Marco Gucciardi (Milos, Bar George, etc.), and mixologist Andrew Whibley (Cloakroom, Bar Dominion), who led the cocktail program and the opening of the Le French Line bar. The sumptuous restaurant offers a menu inspired by the original, featuring elegantly reimagined French and Quebecois classics. It’s a joy to see this historic space come back to life!
Montréal
Sushi Okeya Kyujiro
Okeya Kyujiro invites you to savour their flavourful dishes in an elegant and minimalist Japanese setting. In the Omakase formula, which gives carte blanche to the chef and his brigade, the meal here is divided into 20 courses. The team serves 20 small portions, all as delicious as they are intriguing and exceptionally rich in flavour! There’s plenty of fish, seafood, wagyu beef and, of course, wonderful sushi.
Montréal
La Capital Tacos
La Capital Tacos is a Mexican restaurant in Chinatown. And it’s a very good one. Here, you’ll find some of the best tacos in Montreal, enjoyed in a simple yet well-designed setting. The rosarito, ribeye, and gringa tacos are especially popular, though they’re all delicious. Expect to pay around ten dollars for three small tacos or one quesadilla. The service here is friendly and attentive. Photo: La Capital
Montréal
Sabayon
Sabayon, the new Montréal spot by Patrice Demers and Marie-Josée Beaudoin, made a dazzling debut from the moment it opened. The venue offers three exclusive formats, each available by reservation only—and for a very limited number of guests: afternoon tea service on Fridays and Saturdays, a surprise six-course gastronomic dinner from Thursday to Saturday evenings, and hands-on pastry and cooking workshops led by Patrice himself.
Montréal
Cabaret L'enfer
If you haven’t yet had the chance to taste Massimo Piedimonte’s cuisine, there’s no reason to wait any longer! They now offer a three-course off-menu experience for just $40, available from 9 p.m. until late, Tuesday through Saturday. It’s an unmissable opportunity to savor the culinary delights of this renowned chef at a very accessible price.
Montréal
Paul Patates
Located in the Pointe-Saint-Charles neighbourhood, Paul Patates is a typical Quebec snack bar where you can enjoy great steamed hot dogs, delicious fries and excellent poutine! It all started in 1958, when André Roy bought a place at the corner of Charlevoix and Coleraine streets. Today, Paul Patates has become a must in the neighbourhood, and is on three of our favourite lists: the best poutines in Montreal, the best places to savour a good hot dog and the best fries in town!
Montréal
Oncle Lee
Opened at the very beginning of 2024, Oncle Lee has brought a breath of fresh air to Laurier Ouest. Surrounded by his mentors from Bouillon Bilk and Cadet, young chef prodigy Andersen Lee offers a cuisine that is deeply Chinese, yet perfectly adapted to Western and Quebecois palates. A strong team in both the kitchen and front of house, a fantastic menu, and a very pleasant terrace—these are all reasons why Oncle Lee quickly earned its spot on our list of the best restaurants in Mile End.
Montréal
Pasticceria Alati-Caserta
Alati-Caserta is a must-visit pastry shop in Little Italy. Here on offer are the most classic and delicious Italian pastries, including cannoli, biscotti, sfogliatelle, Code d’Aragosta (lobster tail), cornetto, and much more.
Montréal
Le Serpent
Even the location of Le Serpent in the former Darling Foundry is a reason to include this on our list. The space is beautiful with a simple but extraordinary decor. Le Serpent is where the dishes are shared with friends and family and every visit is a warm one. The linguini with Speck is a real treat but the lobster risotto, veal shank, foie gras orzotto are all quite remarkable. Tough decisions but do save some space for dessert – they are quite decadent.
Montréal
Le Violon
It’s in the former home of Maison Publique, at the corner of Marquette and Gilford, that Danny Smiles has chosen to settle. Surrounded by his longtime partner Mitch Laughren, maître d’hôtel Andrew Park, and his friend, artist Dan Climan, the celebrity chef presents a more thoughtful and mature side, after showing his wild side with Double’s Late Night bar. In an elegant setting designed by Zébulon Perron (again!) and Dan Climan, he offers local, seasonal cuisine that honours his Egyptian, Italian, and Irish roots. A new classic is born. Long live Le Violon!
Montréal
Park
Park Restaurant is considered to be Montreal’s most elegant sushi restaurant and certainly one of the best. Located in the middle of tony Westmount, the sushi at Park Restaurant are the ingenious creations of chef Antonio Park. It is not uncommon to share the restaurant with celebrities who also come to dine on this exceptional food. Park offers exotic sushi and sashimi that have been exquisitely plated. Yes, the restaurant is extravagant yet the quality is up there as well, so this could be the place to celebrate a very special occasion or just to indulge. Park Restaurant is on the list of Canada’s 50 Best Restaurants and included in the list of “Diner’s Club World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy Global Selection”.
Westmount
Jatoba
In the space formerly inhabited by Phillips Lounge, restaurant Jatoba welcomes its guests into a truly enchanting setting. For those who are okay with handing over their whole wallet for a meal, this address is sure to impress. The cornerstone of the Jatoba experience is the iconic seafood platter – chef Olivier Vigneault’s specialty. The menu also features wonderful dumplings, excellent tuna and beef tatakis, vegetable based side dishes and fried rice. Here, you can enjoy an affordable wine list and tasty cocktails created by mixologist and head bartender Stéphane Forget. Jatoba
Montréal
Elena
Opened in February 2018, the Elena restaurant has become one of the best Italian restaurants in Montreal, offering a warm and romantic atmosphere. With a collaborative menu between Janice Tiefenbach and Emma Cardarelli, the restaurant offers antipasti, homemade salads, homemade pasta, and pizzas, all in a unique and elegant setting.
Montréal
Casse-croûte Sissi & Paul
Sissi et Paul is a very popular casse-croûte located on Jean-Talon Street east. In a cozy little dining room, the house offers a variety of delicious Haitian dishes. Griot, macaroni salad, accras and much more await you here! Our favourite: the griot. It is without a doubt a staple on their menu.
Montréal
Marché Hung Phat
Since it opened in 2006, Marché Hung Phat has established itself as a go-to spot for bánh mì lovers in Montreal. Fresh, flavorful, and authentic, the Vietnamese creations from this establishment have been drawing crowds for many years.
Montréal
Pho Tay Ho
Pho Tay Ho embodies everything we love about Vietnamese cuisine: bold flavors, comforting dishes, consistency, and of course, pho soups. The restaurant specializes in northern Vietnamese cuisine—warm, full of flavor, and affordable.
Montréal
Crèmerie Dalla Rose
Dalla Rose Creamery opened its doors in July 2016 in the Saint-Henri neighborhood, on Notre-Dame Street West. Since then, it has become one of the top spots in town to enjoy some of the best ice cream around! They also offer made-to-order ice cream sandwiches.
Montreal
Bar Furco
Comforting and hearty dishes: In a setting that is reminiscent of Berlin’s bars, Furco offers you an impressive array of dining options. Decorated by Zébulon Perron, the establishment is often crowded with downtown professionals, partygoers of all kinds, and lovers of vibrant environments. On Thursday evenings, the place is particularly busy! The menu concocted by chef Joëlle Trottier changes every week, and offers dishes with generous portions that are fresh and easy to share. Especially ideal if you’re looking for delicatessen products.
Montréal
Le Taj
More than 30 years after opening in the heart of downtown Montreal, Le Taj serves some wonderful Indian food. Expect some classics – tikka, korma, vindaloo and other exquisite specialities meticulously chosen by the owner, Vinood Kapoor. The exotic decor is magnificent, and together with the impeccable and friendly service, this is quite a remarkable place to dine. For fans of buffets, this restaurant has a delicious and very generous buffet at lunchtime. Certainly one of our favorite Indian restaurants.
Montréal
Yokato Yokabai Ramen
Yokato Yokabai makes an outstanding bowl of high-quality ramen using homemade and organic ingredients. A lot of love and hard work goes into each soup, and it comes across on the palette! Tradition, authenticity and quality are the backbone of this ramen house. Yokato Yokabai offers a comfortable room, delicious food and courteous service all at a fair price. Photo Alison Slattery
Montréal
September Cafe
Serving one of the best coffees in town from the Anchord Coffee brand, September Surf Café boasts a remarkable space filled with natural light. In terms of food, the venue has been redesigned to make room for a larger kitchen, inspired by food trucks, and to offer a simple and delicious menu. We absolutely love this café, the energy of the place and its customers, the exceptional natural light, and the kindness of the staff.
Montréal
La Banquise
La Banquise is one of Montreal’s best known restaurants. First opened in 1968 as a creamery, founder Pierre Barsalou quickly turned it into a neighbourhood snack bar and introduced its first poutines on the menu in 1980. Since then, this family business has become a veritable temple of poutine; offering some thirty variations of this Quebec dish, Montrealers and tourists alike line up day and night to taste this specialty.
Montréal
Café Alphabet
Three years after opening the doors of Ambros, their roastery, Tony and Tom Argiropoulos launch Café Alphabet, an extension of their initial venture. Stepping into Alphabet, one immediately senses a nod to Greece and the renowned Greek philotimo: you feel welcomed as if you were at home!
Montréal
Lester's Deli
This family-owned business has been an Outremont institution since 1951 and has served generations of locals! Since its opening, Lester’s Deli has opened a second location in Dorval where you can find the same quality that is the signature of the Montreal deli. You come here for great smoked meat and home fries at affordable prices, among a crowd of regular customers!
Montréal
Snowdon Deli
Open since 1946, the Snowdon Deli is a Montreal institution. This restaurant has been passed down from one generation to the next by the Polish Fisherman family. The atmosphere of the restaurant is friendly, jovial and comforting. In a typical 70’s deli decor, one savours traditional Polish recipes and, above all, an excellent smoked meat, which is the signature dish of the house.
Montréal
Lecavalier Petrone
Created by Chloé Migneault-Lecavalier and Loïse Desjardins-Petrone, Lecavalier Petrone is one of Montreal’s best chocolate shops and patisseries, offering a range of products as beautiful as they are delicious. Their chocolates and pastries are true works of art with sometimes surprising flavours. Originally located in a small workshop on Centre Street, the patisserie now occupies a large modern space designed by Dupont Blouin architects. A must-visit for Valentine’s Day, holidays, or any chocolate craving!
Montréal
Brasserie Dieu du Ciel! - Brouepub Montréal
Dieu du Ciel! doesn’t really need an introduction: the place is one of the most famous microbreweries in Montreal, and with good reason. On Laurier Street West, in the heart of Mile End, the place is intimate, warm and always crowded. Superb choice of multiple beers, all quite inventive, daring and with clever names. Dieu du ciel! is also located in St-Jérome, on de Villemure. The place is a staple: perfect for beer lovers or for people visiting Montreal!
Montréal
Pâtisserie Afroditi
Afroditi offers you some of the best Greek pastries in town! Whether you’re looking for baklavas, bougatsas, melomakaronas, galaktabourikos or paximadakias that will make you dream of the Greek sun, this small, authentic establishment in Parc Extension will please you. We are also told that the pastry shop offers the best galatobourikos in Montreal. We love the busy decor that gives the place its charm.
Montréal
Pichai
Pichai is the long-awaited new restaurant from the Épicerie Pumpui team. We come here to enjoy dishes typical of Isaan, Thailand’s poorest region, but inhabited by a people with a distinct culture of their own. The menu matches the decor: vibrant, colourful and friendly.
Montréal
SEGRETA Pizza AL Taglio + Epicerie Italienne
Parc-Extension is the host of pizzeria Segreta Al Taglio, a destination that is anything but ordinary and clearly has the tradition of Roman pizza at heart. The word “segreta” means “secret” in Italian, which takes on its full meaning when talking about the pizza dough at this place. It’s one of the many unique features that set Segreta Al Taglio apart. Al Taglio pizza is a Roman-style pizza baked in traditional rectangular forged iron pans, with dough cold-fermented for a period of 72 to 96 hours. The result is divine and well worth the time that Richi Ourichian, pizzaiolo and owner of Segreta, devotes to each of his pizzas. It’s a technique he learned from Massimiliano Saieva, and it’s paying off today.
Montréal
Le St-Urbain
Since 2009, Le St-Urbain has been nestled on Fleury Ouest, and it’s truly a hidden gem in Montréal—a place to savor seasonal dishes paired with great drinks. Both a neighborhood bistro and a go-to destination, it consistently delivers an exceptional culinary experience. A Tastet favorite!
Montréal
