The food in Montreal, Canada is spectacular! It is, without a question, a food city that should not be missed. There are so many cultures that bring their culinary prowess to Montreal. And to top that. The food and drink in Montreal is only one of the reasons why this city is so special. From the Canadian Classics, to authentic meals from all over the world, to food that has been influenced by other cultures yet has found a culinary voice that’s all its own. This is Montreal! Keep reading to discover my recommendations for the best bars and restaurants in Montreal, Canada.
Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada Last updated: January 2026
Restaurant research is one of the most important parts of any trip I take. With that being said, I will continue to update this article with the best bars and best restaurants in Montreal, Canada as I experience them. Or, as I hear about the best of the best from the people in my life who know a little something about great food and drink. There is only so much one person can eat and drink!
In this article, I will detail my own personal recommendations of the places I enjoyed while in Montreal. I will also give you the recommendations from my sister Ally, and my friend Myra. Both are trusted foodies in my life. So get your Google Maps ready, and don’t forget to save these spots ahead of time.
The Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Time Out Market:
No matter what city you are in, Time Out Market is a winner! Located in the Montreal Eaton Shopping Centre, you will find a variety of Montreal’s best restaurants under the same roof. I went to Time Out Market the same night that I had my first poutine at the Christmas market. I didn’t want anything heavy, so I opted for a really yummy citrus salmon tartare with shrimp and taro chips.
Brasserie 701
While walking around Montreal, I decided to break up my day of sight-seeing by enjoying the food and beverage scene of Montreal sprinkled in between. No better way to start my day and warm up than with brunch! Brasserie 701 was the perfect spot as it was located quite close to the Notre Dame Basilica.
I enjoyed a Mimosa, coffee, espresso, and Duck Confit Eggs Benedict with Maple Syrup. I loved how the city embraces Maple Syrup- which is a national symbol of Canada. It’s so delicious and there is simply no comparison to the other maple syrup I’ve had in the U.S.
Is Maple Syrup a Food or a Condiment?
While I enjoyed the stunning ambiance of Brasserie 701, I pondered whether or not Maple Syrup was considered a food or a condiment? But either way, I loved discovering all of the ways that maple syrup could be used to make the food and drink of Montreal extra special.
Stash Cafe: Best restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Stash is a Polish restaurant that will feed all of your senses. When you walk in the door, you are greeted, by the warmth and calming energy of red lighting, which achieves a mysterious, calming, peaceful ambience, like no other.
I recommend making a reservation. I did not have one, but ended up getting lucky with a seat at the bar. While the bar was quite small, I’d say it was the best seat in the house! I had the best time at Stash. The food was incredible! The Pea soup, my favorite, was absolutely dynamite!
Polish Food = Comfort Food: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
I then enjoyed Fresh and Smoked Polish Sausage with mustard, Saur Kraut and Potato Pancakes with Sour Cream and Apple sauce. Polish food is such a comfort to me. My dinner reminded me of family meals and celebrations at home. We eat Polish food on a regular basis, as Poland makes up some of my family’s heritage.
A Little Bit of Dinner Music
While I was devouring every morsel of my meal, I enjoyed the twinkling sounds from the amazingly talented piano player. Nicolas Hebert. When I walked in, we started chatting and throughout dinner I was impressed by his ability to play so beautifully- and completely by memory!
For instance, while we were chatting I asked if he knew any Chopin, and he promised a Nocturne for me while I was eating. He did not disappoint, and I can still remember the way the food, music, and red lighting came together to make one of my fondest dinner memories in a very long time.
Polish Vodka + Pickle Juice
After dinner I got to talking with the other folks at the bar. I want to thank Monica, Stan, Casper, and Nicolas for the fun and meaningful conversations. I also want to thank them all for reminding me that Polish Vodka is superior! Celebrating your night at Stash Cafe would not be complete unless you have a shot of Vodka with a pickle juice chaser. It was delicious! There really is nothing like it. I had an absolute blast, and I will be making my way back to Stash Cafe the next time I visit Montreal.
Breakfast at the Diner Universel Dejeuner and Grillades
This was the perfect breakfast spot! It had a classic no nonsense diner feel to it, and it was everything you hope for in a breakfast- especially right before a day in the snow. There were also lots of choices to fit everyone’s breakfast tastes along with a large dining room for big groups.
There was also a bar area for those of us that prefer dining out at a counter top. I don’t know what it is, but sitting at the bar when I’m solo makes me feel like I’m not alone while still being by myself. It’s actually quite perfect if you ask me!
Schwartz’s Deli: Best restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Schwartz’s Deli has been open since 1928, and it is an absolute ICON in the city of Montreal! When you sit at the counter and experience the buzz of this charming old school diner, you will understand why. The staff is so friendly and knowledgeable! Plus the food is plentiful and served up quite quickly. You’ll be happy and stuffed in no time.
I ordered the Smoked meat sandwich on rye break that was stacked sky high with smoked meat, mustard, a pickle, coleslaw and a Black Cherry Coke. MmmmmMMM! Now that was a sandwich. Click here to see my smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli.
The Line to eat at Schwartz’s Deli moves Fast
Don’t be frightened by the long line outside. It moves fast! However, if you choose to place an order for takeout, I believe the line will be shorter and you’ll go through a different door. Just something to keep in mind if you’d rather take it home.
Please note: If you have followed me for awhile, you may know that I am allergic to gluten in the United States. However, I am not allergic to the Gluten in Europe. When I went to Canada, I decided to test whether or not I was allergic to the Gluten in Canada. I felt comfortable doing this, as my allergy is not the kind that will land me in the hospital. Unfortunately, after trying to eat bread in Canada, I found that I am allergic to gluten there as well. And while the Rye Bread at Schwartz’s Deli was incredible, I will not be able to enjoy the rye bread on my next trip.
My next trip to Schwartz’s Deli
With that being said, I would absolutely go back to Schwart’z deli and order french fries instead of the bread. Also, according to my sister Ally, Schwartz’s smoked meat can be found at other restaurants in the city. It was served on top of her Poutine at Brasserie Dieu du Ciel! Brouepub Montreal. I love that two of Montreal’s best dishes were brought together for the ultimate comfort food. The thought makes me giddy!
Gaspar Brasserie Francaise
At Gaspar Brasserie Francaise I sat at the bar and really enjoyed the dark wood and cozy vibe. Very fitting for a restaurant in the Old Town Neighborhood of Montreal. It was raining outside, so I was feeling a little chilled. And so I ordered the ultimate comfort food-Poutine.
This Poutine dish was topped with Bacon and I washed it all down with a Champagne cocktail for lunch. It really hit the spot! I am so glad that I finally discovered the richness of Poutine. Gravy, French Fries and Cheese are some of my favorite things. Cheers to the first person that felt similarly and understood that they were meant to be together!
Bar George: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Set inside the Historic Mount Stephens Hotel is Bar George. As I approached the hotel, a stunning work of architecture built in the style of the Renaissance Revival that was once the residence of Sir George Stephen, I couldn’t help but feel like I was the main character of a romantic comedy. The architecture alone of this 140 year old building with 300 year old stained glass windows was breathtaking and so regal.
Make a Reservation: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
I highly recommend a reservation, as I had to wait in line inside for quite awhile for a seat at the bar. The restaurant was completely booked, so I was unable to dine in the Mount Stephens restaurant which is well known for their Beef Wellington, along with classic U.K fare with a modern twist. Thankfully, I was finally able to eat at the bar while enjoying a couple cocktails and the chic and social atmosphere.
Looking around Bar George, I couldn’t help but ponder all of the moments that had come before this one. The design and Victorian-era details of the 15 foot Ceylon satinwood paneled walls with festive accents of the season were so exquisite that I didn’t even notice the 22 carat gold fixtures that have been restored since their inception. It was all so grand yet there was a warmth and whimsy to it all that made me feel right at home.
Hotel Mount Stephen: On my bucket list
I had an amazing time! I was completely inspired by the nostalgia and charm of this beautiful space named for Sir George Stephen. What a dream it would be to stay in Hotel Le Mount Stephen someday! It makes my smile sparkle a little more just thinking about it.
The food and cocktails at Bar George were also magnificent. I enjoyed a tartare de boeuf with gluten free bread and potato chips on the side with a lovely aioli that was surprisingly sour with a little kick. I loved it!
The People You Meet along the way
I also want to thank my bartender Lucky the Poet for serving up a fabulous French 75 along with a memorable evening. While I was at Bar George, I felt safe and looked out for, which is something I do not take for granted as a solo traveler.
I also met such fun and magnetic patrons while I was there. My evening was a wonderful reminder of how much the people you meet on vacation can take your memories from silver to gold. Great food, delicious drinks, and fun conversation all around. See you again soon Bar George!
Best Things to do in Montreal, Canada
Are you curious to learn more about Montreal? Click here to read about the Best things to do in Montreal, Canada. In this article I also highlight my favorite areas and Hotels to help you figure out where you should stay.
Joe Beef: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Joe Beef was closed when I was there, but you better believe that the next time I am in Montreal I will be making a reservation to dine there. Two of my favorite foodie couples love this restaurant, so in my mind Joe Beef is a must. No notes!
Pub Saint Pierre
After my life-changing, soul-resetting ultra relaxing experience at Bota Bota Spa, I decided that I needed to take myself out for a bite to eat. And a cocktail of course. And so I capped off my night at Pub Saint Pierre with one of my favorite past times. Sitting at the bar with a cocktail in a new city while learning the stories of others. It never gets old.
A Great Burger and a Memorable Pep Talk
I had a darn good burger along with a pep talk from an older gentleman who was sitting next to me at the bar, He had lived many lives and had much wisdom to share. Was he hitting on me? Potentially. But did he tell me exactly what I needed to hear in that moment when it comes to my future even after I turned him down? Yes. I sure love validation from a stranger. They owe you nothing, so many times these conversations really do strike a brilliant chord.
Solo Travel Tips and Stories
Want to read more about my solo travels? Click here to read more travel stories, how to meet new people, and My 16 best tips for Solo Travel
More Recommendations: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
My sister Ally and her Montreal recommendations
My sister Ally and her husband Michael have traveled all over the world in search of the greatest food on the planet. When they travel they seek out everything from Michelin star restaurants to street food. They have excellent taste!
While in Montreal, they loved the prefix menu at Helicoptere, along with Copilote, a bar from the same group which is right next door. They also loved the steak at Joe Beef along with Restaurant Dob & Andy for low key traditional Chinese dishes and the barbeque pork.
50 Best Bars in North America
Ally and Mike are also connoisseurs of great beers and beverages. They enjoyed Felix Boutiuque which was a coffee and sneaker store. For the brewery lovers, they recommend Brasserie Dieu du Ciel! Brouepub Montreal. For cocktails, they loved Bar Bisou Bisou, and Atwater Cocktail Club, which is on the list of 50 Best Bars in North America.
My friend Myra and her Montreal recommendations
My friend Myra did a progressive meal in Montreal. A progressive dinner is where you eat a different course at numerous places. They started with oysters at Liverpool House, then moved on to Le Vin Papillon for the next course. For the finale, they enjoyed dinner at Joe Beef. All of these restaurants are conveniently on the same block! I love a Progressive dinner- it keeps things interesting and lets you and your tastebuds enjoy a variety of culinary treasures.
More of her favorite bars and restaurants include St. Denis, L’Express, Garde Manger, Au Pied de Cochon, Nora Gray, Peche, Arthur’s Nosh Bar for brunch, Yan’s deli, and Milky Way Cocktail Club. Myra also recommended Atwater Cocktail Club- another place that is a must for me when I return.
Best Neighborhoods in Montreal for Food Exploration
Mile End
If you are looking to explore areas in Montreal that have great food and a unique vibe, there are numerous neighborhoods that should be on your agenda. One of those is Mile End. This neighborhood is described as laid back with an artsy vibe. Mile end has buzzy restaurants, vintage stores, record shops, and a lively nightlife.
Little Burgundy
Another Neighborhood is Little Burgundy. Here you will find Joe Beef, Atwater Cocktail Club, and Le Vin Papillon, to name a few of the excellent spaces to eat and drink in Montreal.
Little Italy
Little Italy is another neighborhood of Montreal that is worthy of exploring. It is located just north of Mile End. Here you will find Italian restaurants, pastry shops and Jean-Talon Market, which is one of the biggest all season food markets in Montreal. You will also find Vin Petit Lapin in Little Italy. This restaurant was recommended to me by the locals as being memorable and delicious in a beautiful atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: Best Restaurants in Montreal, Canada
Montreal, Canada is easily one of the best food cities I have ever visited. As I’m sure you noticed, the list of best restaurants in Montreal, Canada is quite long! I can’t wait to go back to have my own progressive dinner through Little Burgundy one night. I also plan on devouring Poutine topped with Schwartz’s Deli’s famous smoked meat after a day in the snow.
Heading to Montreal sometime soon?
- Read about where to stay, and the Best things to do in Montreal
Meet Julie Anne, our enthusiastic writer who believes every day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Passionate about local food, wine, fashion, and history, she dives into each city’s culture to bring you authentic, inspiring stories. She started writing in 2020 for Dutchbloggeronthemove. When not traveling, Julie Anne teaches music in Chicago, IL, and advocates for students with special needs. Stay tuned for her unique insights and adventures!
