Must-eat Montréal

Montréal is an amazing foodie destination. Why? Because the city simply lives for food. From traditional recipes handed down from our grandmothers to inventive new Québec cuisine to exotic flavors from the four corners of the earth, chefs across the city continue to amaze and delight palates of seasoned and budding epicureans.

While there’s no way we could possibly showcase everything Montréal brings to the table (literally), here are a few selections from the city’s phenomenal culinary scene.

Try the Montréal musts

Montréal has several iconic foods you just can't leave the city without trying.

To start, the smoked-meat sandwich. Juicy, tender, dripping with goodness, you can try a sandwich stacked with savory meat at Schwartz's Deli.

And who hasn't heard of poutine? A tasty trifecta of cheese curds, fries, and gravy, you can get it "frilled up" with foie gras at Au Pied de Cochon, with lobster chunks at Le Garde-Manger, or with one of 30 different flavor variations from La Banquise.

And then there are Montréal bagels, whose deliciousness has caused even the proudest of New Yorkers to bow down to the champ. Make sure to enjoy one of these sesame-seed coated creations fresh out of the wood-burning ovens of St-Viateur Bagel or Fairmount Bagel, two legendary bagel shops within a short walk of one another.

For full appreciation of the dazzling array of fresh local products -- cheeses, meats, fish, breads, fruits, vegetables and more -- a trip to either the Jean-Talon Market or Atwater-Market is not only mouthwatering, but essential.

Venture out with new Montréal cuisine

The creativity of Montréal's chefs continues to shine in restaurants around town.

Located near Saint-Laurent Boulevard in Little Italy, Anémone stands out for its unique mix of Asian and French cuisine made with locally inspired ingredients. With a menu that evolves regularly, chefs Minh Phat Tu and Mike Madokoro deliver dishes praised for their bold flavors and impressive depth.

Elsewhere, Geneviève Everell of Sushi à la maison redefines sushi with inventive tartares and makis, while Emma Cardarelli of Nora Gray, Elena, and Gia reinvents Italian classics with bold artistry. Benoît Gagnon and Julien Messier-Cousineau at Madame Bovary create dynamic spaces and menus blending Victorian elegance with Quebecois flair. 

Go gourmet

Indulgence is a part of Montréal living, so loosen your belt and don't hold back.

Chef Normand Laprise was a local pioneer in farm-to-fork cuisine, and continues to delight with his creativity at Toqué, bearer of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux seal and a steady presence on any list of the top restaurants in Canada.

For another great gourmet experience, book a table at Europea, a Relais & Châteaux restaurant in the heart of downtown that has diners swooning over its whimsical, seductive and delicious dishes crafted with the utmost passion.

Epicureans and the late Anthony Bourdain, famous American chef and food author, have long sung the praises of Joe Beef. The restaurant—another regular presence on "best of Canada" lists—delivers laid-back, playful, yet impeccably crafted culinary offerings, all in that signature Montréal style.

Finally, Bouillon Bilk is a sure bet for a delicious and sophisticated meal, enjoyed in its tucked-away, unpretentious setting.

Get the real deal

Montréal's diversity is reflected in its wide range of international cuisine.

For an authentic French meal, visit Chez Lévêque Restaurant. This Parisian-style bistro keeps things simple and seasonal and utterly authentic.

If you love Japanese cooking, the izakaya-style restaurant Flyjin features market-fresh produce prepared using traditional Japanese cooking techniques.

Italian more your thing? Head to Little Italy for a chance to try the delicious rustic and market-inspired dishes at Impasto.

The Mexican sun shines in Montréal at Escondite, where tapas, ceviche, and tacos are served in a friendly downtown ambiance.

Bring your appetite

Classic staples, global influences, and bold flavors: Montréal’s food scene has it all. From bagels and smoked meat to cutting edge cuisine, it’s a city that delivers for food lovers.