Montreal is a food lover’s paradise. From smoked meats to bagels, here are some of the Best Eats in Montreal. Save this for your next trip to this vibrant city!
Montréal is a food lover’s playground. During my first trip to this largest city in Canada’s Quebec province, I fell in love with its vibrant energy and its absolutely delicious food scene.
From iconic smoked meat sandwiches and buttery bagels to French bistros, food trucks, and the best poutine you’ll ever eat—this city serves flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re sipping natural wine in Mile End, tasting foie gras at a fine dining spot, or devouring a maple-glazed donut from a hidden bakery, Montréal blends French flair with creative cool like nowhere else.
Come hungry. Leave obsessed!
Jump to:
- About the Montreal food scene
- Montreal-style bagels at St. Viateur Bagels
- Smoked meats at Schwartzโs
- Papito
- Upscale Syrian food at Damas
- Italian classics at Elena
- Modern elegance at Renoir
- Creative cocktails at NINI salon
- Brunch at Lemeac
- Chill vibes at Amea Cafe
- Abundance of Montreal Marche Jean-Valon
- Montreal FAQs
- More Canada foodie travels
About the Montreal food scene
Montreal is one of North America’s most exciting food cities. It’s cool, creative, and packed with flavor.
From classic French bistros to late-night poutine joints, the city knows how to eat well. Every neighborhood has its own vibe—and its own must-try dish.
Known for dishes like poutine, smoked meats, and Montreal-style bagels, this bustling metropolis is also forging new global culinary pathways with inventive Middle Eastern, Italian, Asian, Latin American, African, and fusion cuisine.
With plenty of farmland in surrounding areas, it’s also a hotbed of farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients that shine.
Here’s a look at some of the best eats in Montreal that I tried.
Montreal-style bagels at St. Viateur Bagels
Have you ever had a Montreal-style bagel? These are smaller, denser, and sweeter than New York bagels. And they’re always baked in a wood-fired oven.
The tradition was brought by Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe in the early 1900s and became a beloved staple of Montreal breakfast culture.
These soft, fluffy bagels are hand-rolled and boiled in honey-sweetened water. The most traditional bagel to order is plain, covered in sesame or poppy seeds.
The top two places to order a Montreal bagel are Fairmount Bagel (est. 1919) and St-Viateur (since 1957), both located in the Mile End. There’s a big debate about which has the best.
During my visit, I only had time to enjoy the bagels at St-Viateur. They were truly some of the best bagels I’ve ever eaten!
Smoked meats at Schwartz’s
Montreal smoked meat is a cousin of pastrami—made from beef brisket that’s dry-cured with spices, then smoked and steamed until it’s ridiculously tender.
THE place to order it is at Schwartz’s Deli. Schwartz’s is iconic, hot and messy, sliced thickly. Order it with mustard on rye. No regrets.
Opened in 1928 by Romanian-Jewish immigrant Reuben Schwartz, this classic deli has become famous for its bold flavor and no-frills setting. Expect long lines – it’s absolutely worth the wait!
Papito
Papito is a modern Latin restaurant that’s full of buzzing energy. The vibe is fun, raucous, and perfect for a casual night out with friends.
You’ll find everything from salads to ceviche to juicy grilled meats. I loved the cucumber salad. And you must try the ribeye, no question. The flavors are punchy, fresh, and a little fiery.
Upscale Syrian food at Damas
Damas is a feast for the senses. This Michelin guide recommended, upscale Syrian restaurant in Outremont is bold, colorful, and absolutely stunning.
The food is rich and flavorful. Think lamb kebabs, smoky baba ghanoush, and sweet, crunchy baklava. Order the tasting menu if you’re hungry and curious.
The wine list is fantastic, and the cocktails and mocktails are creative and just as vibrant as the food.
Italian classics at Elena
Elena is one of Montreal’s most beloved Italian restaurants. And it totally lives up to the hype. This favorite neighborhood spot is casual, cool, and always buzzing.
The sourdough pizza crust is chewy perfection. Try the M.Funguy mushroom pizza, the rigatoni with morelles pasta, and a side of fried cauliflower.
They also have a killer natural wine list. The staff knows their stuff and loves to help you find something new.
Modern elegance at Renoir
Renoir brings fine French dining to downtown Montreal. Located inside the Sofitel hotel, the dining room is elegant and refined.
Dinner here is all about classic technique and seasonal flavors. The duck, the rack of lamb, the seafood — they’re all beautiful and absolutely delicious.
Creative cocktails at NINI salon
NINI Salon Bar is also tucked inside the Sofitel. It’s sleek, chic, and perfect for a stylish cocktail.
The bar has a luxe lounge feel—mood lighting, plush seating, and great people-watching.
The bar menu is inventive as well as sophisticated. Expect creative martinis, rare spirits, and small plates with a French twist.
It’s a great pre-dinner spot—or a late-night escape with a glass of champagne.
Brunch at Lemeac
If you’re looking for Brunch an elegant yet relaxed French bistro experience, make a reservation at Leméac Café in Outremont.
Classic bistro dishes like moules frites, blinis, and indulgent pain perdu—a massive brioche French toast drizzled with maple caramel, topped with caramelized bananas and chocolate.
Expect polished service and a warm atmosphere. This spot has been a favorite in the neighborhood for over two decades for good reason.
Chill vibes at Amea Cafe
If you want a cool hangout spot in Montreal, head to Amea Café. This plant-filled, light-drenched café feels like a calm little oasis with a wide variety and plenty of seating. It’s great for coffee, pastries, and lingering over brunch.
It’s the kind of place where locals hang out with laptops and tourists stumble into and never want to leave.
Go for one of their cocktails or mocktails and the avocado toast. Divine.
Abundance of Montreal Marche Jean-Valon
Jean-Talon Market is pure paradise for food lovers. It’s one of the largest open-air markets in North America, and it’s always lively.
You’ll find rows and rows of local produce, Quebec cheeses, fresh seafood, maple everything, and so many pastries. I wanted to buy everything! It was all so fresh and beautiful.
Then there are all the food stalls with tacos, crepes, ice cream, and rotisserie chicken.
Come hungry and bring a tote bag. I could spend hours here!
Montreal FAQs
Tipping in Montreal follows the standard Canadian practice: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is customary at restaurants and bars. Servers rely on tips, so be sure to show your appreciation for good service.
Many are dog-friendly—but with limits. Most restaurants in Montreal don’t allow dogs inside due to provincial health codes. However, many places with outdoor patios are happy to welcome well-behaved dogs. Some even offer water bowls and treats! 🦴 Pro tip: Always call ahead or check the patio policy during busy seasons.
Yes! Montreal is a very family-friendly city with plenty of restaurants that welcome children. Many spots offer kids’ menus, high chairs, and relaxed vibes.
Some kid-friendly restaurants to try:
La Banquise – Kids love poutine, and this casual spot is loud, fun, and fast-paced—perfect for families.
Juliette & Chocolat – A chocolate lover’s dream. From crepes to brownies to hot chocolate, this dessert-focused chain is a hit with kids.
L’Avenue – A funky brunch place with wild decor and big portions. The menu is great for picky eaters (just expect a wait).
Pizzéria NO. 900 – Neapolitan pizzas, quick service, and a modern space that works well for all ages.
Le Cagibi – A cozy café with board games, books, and comfort food—ideal for a quiet lunch with little ones.
🍼 Pro tip: Go early to avoid lines and opt for weekday brunches or lunches when restaurants are less crowded.
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