Joe Beef: Essential Montreal dining

Joe Beef has now been around for over 20 years (!) Over the years, the establishment has helped bring international attention to Montreal’s gastronomy. Joe Beef has become a true institution and a must-visit restaurant.

It was originally the project of three entrepreneurs: David McMillan, Allison Cunningham and Frederic Morin (also the co-owners of Vin Papillon, Liverpool House, Vinette). Both passionate about hospitality, they worked for several years in various Montreal establishments before Joe Beef, and the Petite-Bourgogne neighborhood was at the time a refuge for them. The neighborhood allowed them to escape from their former workplaces. “When we decided to open our own restaurant, we also didn’t want to step on anyone else’s toes. In Petite-Bourgogne, we were alone,” recalls David McMillan, who in late 2021 announced his departure from the Joe Beef group and, with it, from the restaurant industry.

A bit of history: the name “Joe Beef” originally comes from Charles McKiernan, a man who during the Crimean War sourced food with such remarkable skill that it earned him the nickname Joe Beef. Arriving in Quebec in 1864 to assist British troops, he first managed the military canteen before opening his own tavern a few years later in the Griffintown neighborhood, which quickly became known as “Joe Beef’s canteen.” When the Joe Beef restaurant on Rue Notre-Dame Ouest opened, it was partly in honor of this endearing pioneer.

About fifteen years ago, Petite-Bourgogne was still an unpopular neighborhood with very few good restaurants. The two chefs were able to secure a great little restaurant and a lovely, very affordable terrace. Note: they now have three renowned restaurants and three beautiful terraces, side by side. “Petite-Bourgogne now reminds me of Brooklyn. It’s become a very lively neighborhood. It’s next to the Atwater Market, the canal, full of bars, restaurants, and traffic. Rents are still low, it’s full of chaos — I like that,” the former co-owner said.

Chef Jean-Philippe Miron’s menu changes with the seasons, offering hearty, generous, rich cuisine made from market produce. A few items remain due to their popularity, but several new elements are added from time to time. On a recent visit, the cod and caviar were also much enjoyed, and once again the generosity of the portions was impressive — it’s impossible to leave the place still hungry. Ask about the current favorite items and you’ll be well advised. For meat lovers, there is one of the best steak-frites and one of the finest côtes de boeuf in the city. Excellent oysters and delicious fries are also on offer.

You eat at Joe Beef with appetite, savoring a meal in a convivial atmosphere, and you drink a lot too — it’s a restaurant for people who love the good life. While classic cocktails are available, Joe Beef is particularly appreciated for its delicious wines. “We’re more of a champagne, wine, and martini philosophy here.” Sommelier Max Campbell oversees the wine list, which features many classic French wines with prestigious names alongside a few delightful little bottles of organic wine. The attentive and personalized service also makes the place truly unique.

“I travel a lot now, but in the end, the warmth, conviviality, and generosity of Joe Beef can’t be found anywhere else in my opinion. The intimacy that quickly develops between the restaurant and its guests, too. And the love that is given there… it’s unique. Now, there are many restaurants where people are financially invested, but Joe Beef is somewhat of an art restaurant. There’s so much love in the room. I love that restaurant,” David McMillan said.

For all these reasons, this establishment appears on our list of must-visit addresses in Montreal!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ In addition, this address is also featured in our guide to Montreal’s most beautiful terraces!

Written by Élise Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Updated on April 22, 2026

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