Montreal is a food lover’s paradise, offering a vibrant mix of flavors shaped by its rich French and multicultural heritage. Whether you’re craving classic poutine, fresh seafood, or inventive cocktails, the city’s culinary scene has something to satisfy every taste. Here’s a quick list of fantastic spots to check out in the heart of French Canada!
No Brainer Breakfasts:
St. Viateur Bagel – Various Locations
We’ve all heard of it, and it’s worth the trip to Montreal! Hand-rolled, boiled in honey water, and then wood-fired, these bagels come in every flavor—from the All-Dressed (a Canadian specialty) to the famous Sesame Seed. With multiple locations around the city, you can drop in for a quick breakfast sandwich or a midday snack. Experience the long-standing rivalry between NYC bagels and Montreal bagels—and I have to say, Montreal wins every time.
Olive et Gourmando – Old Town Montreal
Open since 1998, Olive et Gourmando is a neighborhood staple in the heart of Old Port Montreal. This bakery, café, and restaurant does it all—and does it flawlessly. From the chocolate chip cookies to the sandwiches and salads, everything is crafted with care and seasonal ingredients. Olive et Gourmando will quickly become a permanent fixture on your list of favorite spots for a meal.
Regine Cafe – Rosemont
If you’re looking for one of the best brunches in the city, Regine Café is, quite simply, lovely. With its gorgeous interior design and a thoughtfully crafted menu that accommodates all dietary restrictions, Regine Café also boasts service that truly shines. And the homemade cinnamon rolls with warm chocolate sauce? They’re an absolute must-try.
Lunch, Lunch, Fun Lunch:
Monarque – Old Town Montreal
The hallmark of dining in Montreal is Monarque. It’s the ideal spot for business lunches, upscale dates, or a quick afternoon bite at the bar. With separate menus for the bar and dining areas, everything here tastes as elegant as the restaurant itself. The stunning wine-by-the-glass program is top-notch, especially when paired with dishes like trout tartare or wild mushroom gnocchi. And if you’re in the mood to dress up, Monarque is the perfect place to get dolled up and be seen on the town.
Maynard – Milton Parc
Vegans unite at Maynard! This urban chip shack offers an entirely vegan and vegetarian menu, and while I indulged in plenty of poutine during my stay in Montreal, their Vegan Poutine was definitely at the top of my list. The cozy, welcoming space features a few tables and a bar area, making you feel right at home. Main options like the burger, ranch wrap, and tofu BBQ sandwich were all delightful, but the poutine was the perfect side—though it’s big enough for three or four to share!
Arepera – Milton Parc
Don’t let the casual vibes fool you—this was one of the best lunches I had in the city. The fresh arepas, empanadas, and even the coconut flan were bursting with flavor, just waiting to be devoured. Open since 2011, this fusion of Venezuelan and Colombian heritage proudly celebrates tradition and community!
Dinner, Drinks, and Delicious Bites:
Pub Saint Pierre & Barrelman’s Bar – Old Town Montreal
There’s a reason this two-for-one restaurant was my first stop during my visit. Downstairs at Pub Saint Pierre, you’ll find TVs showing hockey games (hey, it’s Canada!), friendly staff, hearty burgers, fresh salmon tartare, and truly delightful cocktails. Upstairs at Barrelman’s Bar, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet elegance. One standout dish is their Potato Mille-Feuille—thin layers of potato smothered in honey, cheese, and walnuts. It’s both dinner and dessert in one. I can’t wait to return for more!
Casavant – Mile Ex
Sometimes you must trust the bartender’s choice when you don’t speak the native language. This quaint neighborhood spot was everything I dreamed of, even if I could barely read the menu. The staff was so welcoming and helpful as I fumbled through my baby French, I ended up having the most divine meal of my life. From the wine to the mains to the dessert – come be surprised and delighted!
Magpie Magique – Mont Royal
Dark and mysterious vibes abound at Magpie Magique. With its rich red interior and dark wood accents, you might feel as though you’ve stepped into the mind of a magician. Though the menu is small, it’s mighty in flavor. The Marza Ghassemi—roasted eggplant with garlic and lemon—was unimaginably delicious. For drinks, traditional options like Negronis, Manhattans, and Sidecars are crafted to perfection, each retaining the highest quality of flavors.
Atwater Cocktail Club – Marché Atwater
Now, this is a bar worth the airfare itself. Ranked #3 on Canada’s Best Bars list and #32 on North America’s Best 50 Bars, it’s a MUST for anyone looking to experience a purely French Canadian vibe. The food is fantastic, but the drinks—THE DRINKS—I’d write poetry for. Each one comes with a clever name or a fun cup, and the flavors are outstanding! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—the staff is there to kindly guide you to your new favorite drink… or three.
