Montréal is one of North America’s most exciting food cities. With a blend of French, indigenous, and international influences, its food scene is dynamic and full of flavor.
This guide takes you through the essential eats in Montréal right now, from traditional bites to contemporary creations, plus where to find each one.
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1. Montréal-Style Bagels
Montréal bagels are a must-try. Slightly sweeter and denser than New York bagels, they’re boiled in honey water before being baked in wood-fired ovens, giving them a signature chewiness.
Where to Find Them:
- St-Viateur Bagel: Established in 1957, St-Viateur is a local favorite, known for its sesame and poppy seed bagels.
- Fairmount Bagel: Another institution, Fairmount offers classic flavors plus some creative options like chocolate and blueberry.
Both are located in the Mile End neighborhood, a cultural hotspot worth exploring.
2. Smoked Meat Sandwich
The smoked meat sandwich is an iconic Montréal dish. Made from beef brisket cured with a secret spice blend, it’s steamed and sliced thick, then served on rye bread with mustard. This hearty sandwich is best paired with a pickle.
Where to Find It:
- Schwartz’s Deli: The oldest deli in Canada, Schwartz’s has been serving smoked meat since 1928. Their sandwiches are legendary, and the flavors stay true to tradition.
- Main Deli Steakhouse: Just across the street from Schwartz’s, this spot also serves up a tasty smoked meat sandwich, with a slightly different spice blend.
3. Poutine
Poutine is a dish of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s a Québecois classic that has gained international fame. In Montréal, chefs take poutine to new levels with unique toppings and gourmet ingredients.
Where to Find It:
- La Banquise: Known for its extensive poutine menu, La Banquise offers everything from classic poutine to inventive versions with smoked meat or guacamole.
- Au Pied de Cochon: For a decadent twist, try the foie gras poutine at this upscale spot. It’s rich and unforgettable.
4. Tourtière
Tourtière is a Québecois meat pie traditionally made with minced pork or veal, often seasoned with a hint of cinnamon and cloves. It’s warm, savory, and perfect for chilly weather.
Where to Find It:
- Le Vieux St-Laurent: Known for traditional tourtière, this restaurant serves a classic version that tastes homemade.
- Marché Jean-Talon: Some local vendors at the Jean-Talon Market sell freshly baked tourtière, offering a perfect snack for a day of exploring.
5. Foie Gras
Montréal chefs are known for their creative use of foie gras. This delicacy is featured in a range of inventive dishes around the city.
Where to Find It:
- Au Pied de Cochon: Renowned for its foie gras specialties, Au Pied de Cochon serves it with bold flavors and unique preparations.
- Le Club Chasse et Pêche: This fine dining spot offers a sophisticated foie gras dish, perfect for a special occasion.
6. Portuguese Chicken
The Portuguese community in Montréal has made Portuguese chicken a staple. Grilled and seasoned with piri-piri sauce, this chicken is both spicy and smoky.
Where to Find It:
- Romados: This casual spot in the Plateau is a go-to for authentic Portuguese rotisserie chicken. Grab a combo meal with fries and salad for the full experience.
- Ma Poule Mouillée: Known for large portions, Ma Poule Mouillée serves Portuguese chicken that’s crispy, flavorful, and a Montréal favorite.
7. Montréal-Style Pizza
Montréal’s unique take on pizza is gaining popularity. It features a thicker crust and toppings that range from the classic to the experimental.
Where to Find It:
- Gema Pizzeria: Known for high-quality ingredients, Gema’s Montréal-style pizza includes options with fresh produce and artisanal meats.
- Adamo: This spot brings New York inspiration to Montréal-style pizza, offering large slices with a crispy crust and savory toppings.
8. Pastries and Sweets
From buttery croissants to innovative pastries, Montréal’s bakeries and patisseries are second to none. You’ll find both traditional French treats and modern interpretations.
Where to Find Them:
- Pâtisserie Au Kouign-Amann: This bakery is famous for its kouign-amann, a Breton pastry that’s rich, flaky, and caramelized to perfection.
- Boulangerie Guillaume: Located in Mile End, Guillaume offers an array of breads and pastries. Try their croissants for a true French experience.
9. Seafood
Being near the St. Lawrence River, Montréal has access to fresh seafood. Oysters, mussels, and lobster are some of the most popular options.
Where to Find It:
- Joe Beef: This legendary restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, including oysters and lobster spaghetti.
- Le Bremner: A seafood haven, Le Bremner serves inventive dishes like crab-stuffed mushrooms and shrimp cocktails.
10. Québec Cheeses
Québec is known for its cheese, and Montréal’s markets and restaurants showcase local favorites like Oka, Bleu Bénédictin, and more.
Where to Find Them:
- Marché Atwater and Marché Jean-Talon: These public markets have cheese vendors with an impressive variety of Québec cheeses. Sample a few and pick up some to enjoy later.
- Fromagerie Hamel: With locations around the city, this shop offers a curated selection of local and international cheeses.
11. Craft Beer
Montréal’s craft beer scene is booming, with breweries creating bold flavors and unique brews that reflect the city’s diversity.
Where to Find It:
- Dieu du Ciel!: This microbrewery is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering creative beers like hibiscus-infused ales.
- Brasserie Harricana: Known for experimenting with unusual ingredients, Harricana’s craft beers are distinct and worth trying.
Final Tips for Enjoying Montréal’s Culinary Scene
Montréal’s food culture is welcoming and vibrant, with many opportunities to explore both traditional Québecois dishes and contemporary flavors. Here are a few tips to make the most of your culinary journey in Montréal:
- Visit the Markets: The city’s markets are full of fresh, local produce and artisan products.
- Take a Food Tour: Food tours are a great way to sample a variety of dishes while learning about the city’s culture.
- Try Seasonal Foods: Montréal’s culinary scene changes with the seasons. Be sure to try dishes that highlight local, seasonal ingredients.
Montréal’s food scene offers something for every palate. With a blend of classic flavors, multicultural influences, and a thriving craft culture, this city is a paradise for food lovers. Enjoy exploring, and make sure to try as many dishes as you can!