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Restaurants

Best Restaurants in Montreal

The best restaurants in Montreal, from Toque and fine-dining tables to smoked meat icons, terrace views, romantic date spots, and buzzy new openings by neighborhood.

Finding the best restaurants in Montreal means embracing a city that treats dining as both high art and hometown ritual.

In a single day you can eat a towering hand-carved smoked meat sandwich for lunch, chase it with a chef-driven tasting menu at night, and end at a Plateau bistro over a bottle of natural wine.

Montreal's food identity is built on French-Canadian roots, waves of immigration, and a fiercely creative bistro scene that has produced some of Canada's most influential chefs.

At a glance

The top pick in each category, at a glance.

CategoryOur pick
Best overallToqué!Reserve
By CuisineSchwartz's DeliReserve
Fine Dining & Tasting-Menu RestaurantsToque!Reserve
Most Romantic RestaurantsLe Club Chasse et PêcheReserve
Rooftop & View RestaurantsTerrasse William GrayReserve
Vegetarian & Vegan RestaurantsLOVReserve
Smoked Meat & Iconic Montreal EatsSchwartz's DeliReserve
New & Trendy Restaurant OpeningsElenaReserve

Top Picks

🍽️GetYourGuide food & wine tours, taste the best of Montreal on a food tour. Affiliate slot (stub).

📍 Quartier International

Toqué!

Contemporary Quebecois$$$$· Special occasion

Normand Laprise's landmark is the restaurant that put Montreal on the global fine-dining map and championed Quebec producers long before farm-to-table was fashionable. The tasting menu is precise, seasonal, and deeply rooted in local terroir, from foie gras to just-caught fish and pristine market vegetables. Service is polished without stiffness, and the wine list is a serious deep dive into Quebec and beyond. If you want to understand the ambition of Montreal's kitchen scene, this is the essential pilgrimage.

What to order: Seasonal tasting menu

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Burgundy

Joe Beef

French-Quebecois$$$$· Boisterous & indulgent

Frédéric Morin and David McMillan's rowdy temple to excess helped redefine modern Montreal dining. The chalkboard menu roams from oysters and lobster spaghetti to the famous foie gras double down, all delivered with maximalist flavor and zero pretension. The cramped, cluttered room feels like a beloved friend's kitchen, and the wine cellar runs deep. Reservations are notoriously tough but worth the effort for one of the city's defining tables.

What to order: Foie gras double down

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Plateau Mont-Royal

Au Pied de Cochon

Quebecois$$$· Raucous & decadent

Martin Picard's shrine to Quebec gluttony is loud, unapologetic, and unforgettable. The kitchen turns pork, foie gras, and maple into decadent art, from the towering plogue à Champlain to the legendary foie gras poutine. The energy is raucous, the portions are enormous, and the open kitchen sends out a nonstop parade of hearty, cabin-country cooking. Come hungry, share generously, and lean into one of Montreal's most gloriously over-the-top experiences.

What to order: Foie gras poutine

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 The Main

Schwartz's Deli

Deli$$· Historic & cramped

Open since 1928 on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Schwartz's is the definitive Montreal smoked meat institution. The hand-cut brisket, cured in-house with a secret spice blend and piled on rye with yellow mustard, draws lines down the block year-round. The narrow, elbow-to-elbow room and brusque waiters are part of the charm, a genuine time capsule of the city's Jewish culinary heritage. Order it medium-fat, add a cherry cola and a pickle, and eat where locals have for a century.

What to order: Smoked meat sandwich

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Plateau Mont-Royal

L'Express

French bistro$$$· Classic & buzzing

The quintessential Parisian bistro transplanted to Montreal, L'Express has run flawlessly since 1980 with black-and-white tile floors, mirrored walls, and a jar of cornichons on every table. The menu is classic and comforting: steak tartare, bone marrow, calf's liver, and a proper île flottante for dessert. The buzzing, timeless room and encyclopedic wine list make it a perennial local favorite. It is the reliable, deeply Montreal choice for anyone craving unfussy French cooking done exactly right.

What to order: Steak tartare

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Burgundy

Le Vin Papillon

Vegetable-forward$$$· Convivial wine bar

The vegetable-forward wine bar from the Joe Beef family is one of Montreal's most beloved rooms, and it takes no reservations. The ever-changing menu treats produce like the main event, from charred cabbage to celtuce and roasted squash, alongside a wildly good natural wine list. The tiny, convivial space fills fast with a mix of locals and pilgrims. Put your name in early, order broadly across the small plates, and trust the kitchen's obsession with the market.

What to order: Seasonal vegetable plates

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 La Petite-Patrie

Vin Mon Lapin

Natural wine bar$$$· Intimate & inventive

From the team behind the celebrated Joe Beef universe, Vin Mon Lapin is a natural-wine bar that consistently ranks among the best restaurants in Canada. The small-plate menu is playful and precise, weaving Quebec ingredients through seafood, snails, and inventive vegetable dishes with obvious joy. The room is warm and intimate, the sommelier-driven wine list superb. It captures the freewheeling creativity of Montreal's current dining scene, so book well ahead and let the kitchen guide the night.

What to order: Seasonal small plates

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Outremont

Damas

Syrian$$$· Elegant & aromatic

Widely regarded as one of the finest Syrian restaurants in North America, Damas brings the sophistication of Damascus to a jewel-box Outremont dining room. The menu layers muhammara, fattoush, cherry kebabs, and fragrant grilled meats with genuine elegance and depth. The candlelit, mosaic-tiled space feels lavish yet welcoming, ideal for a celebratory dinner. It is a standout example of how immigrant kitchens have reshaped Montreal's culinary landscape into something truly world-class.

What to order: Cherry kebab

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Villeray

Montréal Plaza

Contemporary Quebecois$$$· Playful & inventive

Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson's playful bistro brought serious, whimsical cooking to the up-and-coming Villeray neighborhood. The menu is inventive and generous, mixing refined technique with a sense of humor across seafood, game, and clever vegetable dishes. The bright, quirky room feels relaxed rather than precious, exactly the kind of place that defines modern Montreal. It is a strong pick for adventurous eaters who want creativity without the formality of a tasting-menu temple.

What to order: Chef's tasting plates

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Burgundy

Nora Gray

Italian$$$· Moody & romantic

A moody, sophisticated southern Italian restaurant, Nora Gray channels old-world glamour with dark wood, low lighting, and impeccable pasta. Chef Emma Cardarelli's menu leans on rustic Calabrian and Sicilian flavors, from silky handmade noodles to slow-braised meats, all paired with a thoughtful Italian-focused wine list. The clubby, romantic room makes it a top date-night choice in the city. Reservations move quickly, so plan ahead for one of Montreal's most consistently excellent Italian tables.

What to order: Handmade pasta

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Mile End

St-Viateur Bagel

Bakery$· Wood-fired icon

No Montreal food tour is complete without a St-Viateur bagel, hand-rolled, boiled in honey water, and baked in a wood-fired oven since 1957. Thinner, sweeter, and denser than its New York cousin, the Montreal bagel is a distinct local icon, and this Mile End bakery is its spiritual home. Grab a warm sesame straight from the oven, no toasting required. Open around the clock, it is the easiest and most delicious way to taste a genuine city tradition.

What to order: Sesame bagel

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Plateau Mont-Royal

La Banquise

Poutine$· Late-night casual

The definitive Montreal poutine destination, La Banquise serves more than thirty variations of the Quebec classic around the clock. The foundation is perfect: crisp fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy, then piled high with everything from smoked meat to bacon, peas, and hot dogs. The colorful, graffiti-walled room draws students, night-owls, and tourists in equal measure. It is an affordable, essential rite of passage, best enjoyed late at night after a few local beers.

What to order: Classic poutine

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Old Montreal

Garde Manger

Seafood$$$· Rowdy & festive

Chuck Hughes' cobblestone-lane restaurant is a rowdy, seafood-driven mainstay of Old Montreal's dining scene. The short, hand-scrawled menu changes constantly but reliably delivers the famous lobster poutine, fresh oysters, and hearty market plates. The dim, party-ready room turns dinner into a late-night celebration, with music loud and cocktails flowing. It is a spirited, unpretentious choice for travelers who want serious cooking wrapped in genuine good times in the historic old town.

What to order: Lobster poutine

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Saint-Henri

Elena

Italian$$$· Bright & lively

A bright, all-day Italian favorite in Saint-Henri, Elena is beloved for its blistered Neapolitan-style pizzas and superb handmade pasta. The wood-fired pies come with charred, airy crusts and thoughtful toppings, while the natural wine list and vinyl soundtrack keep the room lively. The airy, plant-filled space and warm service make it ideal for a relaxed group dinner. It consistently ranks among the city's best casual restaurants for anyone who loves pizza and pasta done at a high level.

What to order: Wood-fired pizza

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Mile End

Beauty's Luncheonette

Diner brunch$$· Retro brunch

A family-run Mile End diner open since 1942, Beauty's is a Montreal brunch institution with chrome stools, retro booths, and a devoted weekend crowd. The signature Beauty's Special, a bagel with lox, cream cheese, tomato, and onion, sits alongside fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes. The nostalgic vibe and friendly regulars make the inevitable morning line worthwhile. It is a genuine neighborhood time capsule and a perfect, affordable start to a day exploring the Plateau and Mile End.

What to order: The Beauty's Special

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Little Burgundy

Liverpool House

French-Quebecois$$$· Warm & convivial

The slightly softer, brighter sibling to Joe Beef next door, Liverpool House delivers the same pedigree with a warmer, more welcoming feel. The seasonal menu shines with seafood, pasta, and market-driven Quebec cooking, from lobster spaghetti to spot prawns and roast chicken for the table. The airy, plant-strewn room and superb wine list make it a favorite for celebrations. It offers the magic of the Joe Beef universe in a more relaxed, group-friendly package worth planning ahead for.

What to order: Lobster spaghetti

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Quartier des Spectacles

Moleskine

Italian$$· Casual & versatile

A stylish two-in-one spot downtown, Moleskine pairs a casual ground-floor pizzeria with a refined upstairs dining room. The main floor turns out excellent wood-fired pizzas and pastas in a buzzy, walk-in-friendly setting, while the second floor offers a more ambitious seasonal tasting experience. Central and versatile, it suits both a quick pre-show bite and a serious sit-down dinner. It is one of the most flexible, reliably good options in the heart of the entertainment district.

What to order: Wood-fired pizza

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

📍 Old Montreal

Olive et Gourmando

Bakery cafe$$· Cozy daytime cafe

A cult-favorite bakery and cafe on Rue Saint-Paul, Olive et Gourmando draws devoted lines for its pastries, sandwiches, and brunch. The Cubano, grilled cheese, and buttery croissants are legendary, made with obvious care from top ingredients. The cozy, rustic room and takeaway counter make it a perfect stop while wandering the cobblestone streets of the old town. It is an affordable, unpretentious daytime gem that captures the warmth of Montreal's independent cafe culture.

What to order: Grilled cheese sandwich

📍 View on Google Maps →Reserve

Best Restaurants in Montreal by Cuisine

Montreal's deep immigrant roots make it one of North America's great eating cities, where a short Metro ride can carry you from Vietnamese pho in Villeray to Portuguese rotisserie in the Plateau and Syrian mezze near the Jean-Talon Market.

The best restaurants in Montreal by cuisine reward exploration beyond downtown: neighbourhood specialists in Parc-Extension, Little Italy, and Chinatown often outshine flashier destinations.

Whether you crave smoked meat, birria-style grilled chicken, South Asian thali, or Greek seafood, the city delivers depth and authenticity across price points.

This roundup highlights standout picks spanning the culinary map, from long-running institutions to modern reinventions, so you can build a week of eating that circles the globe without leaving the island.

  • Schwartz's Deli

    Jewish deli $$

    This Hebrew delicatessen on boulevard Saint-Laurent, open since 1928, is the definitive Montreal smoked meat experience. The hand-cut brisket, cured and smoked in house, is piled on rye with mustard and served in a narrow, always-buzzing room. It is unfussy, deeply satisfying, and essential for understanding the city's Jewish culinary heritage along The Main.

    What to order: Smoked meat sandwich on rye

    Reserve

  • Damas

    Syrian $$$

    A refined Syrian restaurant on avenue Van Horne in Outremont that elevates Levantine cooking with polish and generosity. The muhammara, fattoush, and charcoal-grilled meats arrive in a warm, jewel-toned room. It helped teach Montreal to take Middle Eastern cuisine seriously as a special-occasion destination.

    What to order: Muhammara; grilled meats; fattoush

    Reserve

  • Pho Tay Ho

    Vietnamese $

    A reliable, no-frills stop in Villeray for steaming bowls of fragrant pho and Vietnamese rice plates. The broth is deeply aromatic and the portions generous, and the surrounding neighbourhood rewards wandering for banh mi and bubble tea. It anchors one of the city's best strips for Southeast Asian eating.

    What to order: Pho tai; rice plates

    Reserve

  • Bombay Mahal

    Indian $

    Parc-Extension is Montreal's South Asian heart, and this bustling spot packs in fans for punchy North Indian curries, tandoori, and thali platters at gentle prices. Come hungry and graze along rue Jean-Talon afterward for sweet shops and grocers. It captures the neighbourhood's vibrant, spice-scented energy.

    What to order: Butter chicken; tandoori; thali

    Reserve

  • Park

    Korean-Japanese $$$

    Chef Antonio Park's Westmount restaurant reimagines Korean and Japanese cooking with creativity and precision. The sushi and sashimi are pristine, and the menu balances familiar comfort with inventive flourishes. It is a modern standout that helped put cross-cultural Asian fine dining on Montreal's map.

    What to order: Sushi and sashimi omakase

    Reserve

  • Impasto

    Italian $$$

    In the heart of Little Italy, this warm trattoria from Michele Forgione and Stefano Faita turns out handmade pastas and rustic Italian plates rooted in genuine skill and heritage. The result is personal, generous, and unpretentious. It reflects Montreal's talent for honest, ingredient-driven cooking.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; charcuterie

    Reserve

  • Kazu

    Japanese $$

    A tiny, always-lined-up Japanese counter near Concordia serving rich ramen, 48-hour pork, and salmon bowls. Simple, focused, and beloved, it draws devotees willing to wait on the sidewalk. This is destination eating for anyone chasing some of the best comfort-driven Japanese food downtown.

    What to order: 48-hour pork; ramen; salmon bowl

    Reserve

  • Rôtisserie Romados

    Portuguese $

    A Plateau institution specializing in Portuguese charcoal-grilled chicken, flame-licked and basted with piri-piri. The birds are juicy, smoky, and served with fries and rice at unbeatable value. It is a must for understanding Montreal's Portuguese food culture beyond the pastry counter.

    What to order: Piri-piri charcoal chicken

    Reserve

  • Milos

    Greek $$$$

    A polished Greek seafood destination on avenue du Parc where whole fish are displayed on ice and grilled simply over charcoal. Bright, lively, and generous, it brings a fresh Aegean energy to the city. It is a strong pick for a celebratory meal built around shared mezze and the day's catch.

    What to order: Whole grilled fish; grilled octopus

    Reserve

  • Le Petit Alep

    Syrian-Armenian $$

    A family-run Syrian-Armenian favourite across from the Jean-Talon Market, famous for its garlicky muhammara, cumin-scented dishes, and mezze spreads. The convivial, casual style makes it perfect for lingering with friends. It is a beloved anchor of Montreal's Middle Eastern dining scene.

    What to order: Muhammara; mezze; grilled kebabs

    Reserve

Best Fine Dining & Tasting-Menu Restaurants in Montreal

Montreal is not covered by the Michelin Guide, but its top tables rival any starred room on the continent, drawing on Quebec terroir, a deep bistro tradition, and a wave of chefs pushing seasonal cooking in bold directions.

The best fine dining restaurants in Montreal range from avant-garde tasting-menu theater to Relais & Chateaux polish and decadent Quebecois feasts, and many carry spots on Canada's 100 Best.

Expect seasonal menus, thoughtful Quebec and natural-wine pairings, and dining rooms built for milestone celebrations. These are the rooms for anniversaries and once-in-a-trip splurges.

Book weeks or months ahead, arrive curious, and let the kitchen lead; Montreal's top tables reward diners who surrender to the experience.

  • Toque!

    Contemporary Quebecois $$$$

    Normand Laprise's landmark and the reference point for contemporary Quebecois fine dining. A Relais & Chateaux member, it champions local farmers and producers through a refined tasting menu that changes with the seasons. It is the essential Montreal splurge and a benchmark other kitchens still measure themselves against.

    What to order: Tasting menu; foie gras

    Reserve

  • Le Mousso

    Avant-garde $$$$

    Antonin Mousseau-Rivard's avant-garde tasting-menu destination turns dinner into quietly theatrical, produce-driven precision. The cooking is inventive and deeply seasonal, moving between delicate and boldly savory in a stark, elegant room near Centre-Sud. It is Montreal's most ambitious fine-dining pilgrimage.

    What to order: Avant-garde tasting menu

    Reserve

  • Vin Mon Lapin

    Contemporary $$$

    From the Joe Beef family, this Little Italy jewel pairs inspired small plates with a landmark natural-wine list. Once named Canada's best restaurant, it marries neighborhood warmth with serious technique. Its intimate energy makes it a favorite for celebrations that skip the formal hush.

    What to order: Seasonal small plates; natural wine

    Reserve

  • Montreal Plaza

    Contemporary $$$

    Charles-Antoine Crete and Cheryl Johnson deliver playful, boundary-pushing contemporary cooking in a lively Villeray room. Irreverent and inventive yet grounded in real technique, it offers avant-garde ambition with genuine fun and a devoted following.

    What to order: Playful contemporary tasting

    Reserve

  • Europea

    French $$$$

    Jerome Ferrer's Relais & Chateaux flagship serves polished French haute cuisine with a theatrical streak, from the signature lobster cream cappuccino to gilded tableside touches. Impeccable service and refined plating make it a top choice for special occasions seeking classic luxury.

    What to order: French tasting; lobster cappuccino

    Reserve

  • Joe Beef

    Quebecois $$$

    David McMillan and Frederic Morin's Little Burgundy institution is decadent, market-driven Quebecois cooking at full volume. Foie gras, lobster, and rib-sticking richness define a chalkboard menu that revels in indulgence. It is a bucket-list room for serious eaters and famously hard to book.

    What to order: Foie gras double down; lobster spaghetti

    Reserve

  • Maison Boulud

    French $$$$

    Daniel Boulud's elegant room inside the Ritz-Carlton delivers refined French cooking in a serene, sophisticated setting overlooking a garden courtyard. Polished service and seasonal precision make it a dependable choice for milestone dinners that favor grace over spectacle.

    What to order: Seasonal French menu

    Reserve

  • Le Club Chasse et Peche

    Contemporary $$$$

    Tucked into a handsome Old Montreal cellar, this stalwart pairs luxurious surf-and-turf cooking with genuine warmth. Rich risottos, seafood, and expertly cooked meats define a menu balancing indulgence and restraint. It is a longtime favorite for anniversaries.

    What to order: Surf and turf; lobster risotto

    Reserve

  • Damas

    Syrian $$$

    An Outremont destination that elevates Syrian and Levantine cooking to genuine fine dining. Muhammara, mezze, and slow-cooked lamb arrive with elegance and heritage depth in a jewel-box room. It is one of the city's most distinctive high-end experiences.

    What to order: Levantine tasting; muhammara

    Reserve

  • Estiatorio Milos

    Greek seafood $$$$

    The Montreal original of a now-global Greek seafood empire, sourcing pristine fish sold by the pound on ice. Whole grilled catch, the towering Milos special, and simple luxury define a bright, buzzy room. It remains the city's benchmark for splurge-worthy seafood.

    What to order: Whole grilled fish; Milos special

    Reserve

  • Candide

    Contemporary $$$

    A Little Burgundy favorite built on hyper-seasonal, single-choice menus driven by Quebec farms and foraging. The cooking is clean-lined and thoughtful, served in a spare, light-filled former chapel space. It is a refined but welcoming choice for produce-obsessed diners.

    What to order: Seasonal set menu

    Reserve

Most Romantic Restaurants in Montreal

For date nights, anniversaries, and proposals, the most romantic restaurants in Montreal pair intimate lighting and gracious service with food worth lingering over.

The city offers everything from candlelit French bistros and hushed Old Montreal stone rooms to cozy Plateau spots and moody wine bars.

Romance here is less about stiff formality and more about atmosphere: a low-lit dining room, a shared bottle from a serious cellar, and a corner that makes time slow down.

Whether you want vaulted-ceiling grandeur near the river or a tucked-away table in a converted rowhouse, these picks set the mood. Reserve ahead, request a quiet corner if you can, and plan a leisurely, unhurried evening.

  • Le Club Chasse et Pêche

    Contemporary French $$$$

    Hidden behind an unmarked door in Old Montreal, this dark, clubby room feels like a secret worth keeping. Stone walls, low lighting, and plush seating create an intimate mood, while the refined game and seafood plates make it one of the city's most seductive date-night rooms.

    What to order: Foie gras risotto; surf and turf

    Reserve

  • Toqué!

    Contemporary Québécois $$$$

    Normand Laprise's flagship near Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle is the standard-bearer for special-occasion dining in Montreal. Impeccable service, a deep wine list, and a market-driven tasting menu built on Quebec producers make it an elegant, unhurried choice for milestones.

    What to order: Tasting menu; foie gras

    Reserve

  • Restaurant L'Express

    French Bistro $$$

    A timeless Parisian bistro on Saint-Denis with mirrored walls, a black-and-white tiled floor, and a bustling zinc bar. Order a carafe, share the bone marrow, and settle in: the classic setting and easy warmth make it a perennial romantic favourite on the Plateau.

    What to order: Steak frites; bone marrow

    Reserve

  • Ferreira Café

    Portuguese $$$$

    A polished, hospitable Portuguese room downtown on Peel Street, ideal for a celebratory dinner. Bright coastal flavours, an outstanding Portuguese wine and port list, and warm service make grilled fish and seafood feel like an occasion.

    What to order: Grilled fish; seafood cataplana

    Reserve

  • Le Filet

    Seafood $$$

    An intimate, softly lit seafood spot across from Parc Jeanne-Mance and Mont-Royal. Small, elegant plates and a thoughtful wine list encourage lingering, and the refined-but-relaxed mood makes it a comfortable pick for couples who want something a touch special.

    What to order: Oysters; delicate fish plates

    Reserve

  • Gibbys

    Steakhouse $$$

    Set in a two-hundred-year-old stone building on Place d'Youville, this Old Montreal steakhouse trades on old-world charm, exposed beams, and a fireside glow. Generous cuts, a great martini, and a timeless setting suit couples after a classic, celebratory steak dinner.

    What to order: Aged steaks; big cuts

    Reserve

  • Damas

    Syrian $$$

    An opulent Syrian dining room in Outremont, richly decorated and glowing with lantern light. Fragrant mezze, charcoal-grilled meats, and gracious service make it lush and atmospheric, a distinctive and flavour-rich destination for a romantic evening.

    What to order: Mezze; fatteh and grilled meats

    Reserve

  • Maison Boulud

    French $$$$

    Daniel Boulud's refined French room inside the Ritz-Carlton, all soft light, polished service, and a lovely garden terrace in season. Elegant plating and a serious wine list make it a reliably romantic choice for anniversaries and special-occasion dinners.

    What to order: Refined French plates; garden terrace

    Reserve

  • Estiatorio Milos

    Greek Seafood $$$$

    The original Milos on Avenue du Parc pairs pristine Mediterranean seafood with an airy, elegant space near Mile End. Choose your fish from the display, share a Greek salad, and enjoy attentive service that makes a simple, luxurious dinner feel special.

    What to order: Whole grilled fish; Greek salad

    Reserve

  • Nora Gray

    Italian $$$

    A warm, dimly lit Southern Italian room in Little Burgundy with a stylish bar and a relaxed-romantic vibe. Handmade pastas, a smart Italian wine list, and candlelit tables make it a comfortable, characterful date-night pick just west of downtown.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; Italian wine list

    Reserve

Best Rooftop & View Restaurants in Montreal

Few cities savour terrace season quite like Montreal, where the St. Lawrence River, the Old Port, and the downtown skyline framed by Mount Royal create striking backdrops from late spring through fall.

The best rooftop and view restaurants in Montreal range from sky-high perches beside downtown observation decks to cobblestone rooftops in the historic quarter and waterfront terraces built for golden hour.

The warm-weather months are peak season, when terraces fill fast and reservations or an early arrival become essential. Many trade as much on the setting and the cocktails as on the plates, so calibrate expectations accordingly.

Whether you want a signature cocktail above Old Montreal or a laid-back terrace over the river, these spots deliver the city's most photogenic dining.

  • Terrasse William Gray

    American $$$

    One of the largest rooftop terraces in Old Montreal, crowning Hotel William Gray with views over the historic quarter and the St. Lawrence. It draws a stylish crowd for cocktails and shareable plates on warm evenings.

    What to order: Cocktails; shareable plates; old-town views

    Reserve

  • Les Enfants Terribles Place Ville Marie

    Quebecois $$$

    Perched at the top of Place Ville Marie beside the Au Sommet observation deck, this bistro pairs Quebecois comfort food with panoramic downtown views. The terrace looks out over the skyline toward Mount Royal and the river.

    What to order: Poutine; panoramic city views

    Reserve

  • Terrasse Nelligan

    American $$$

    The rooftop of Hotel Nelligan offers a relaxed perch above the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, with views of the Old Port and the river beyond. It is a favourite golden-hour spot for cocktails and light plates.

    What to order: Cocktails; light plates; Old Port views

    Reserve

  • Terrasse Place d'Armes

    American $$$

    Atop Hotel Place d'Armes, this rooftop terrace looks directly onto the Notre-Dame Basilica and the rooftops of the old city. It is one of the most photogenic downtown spots for a sunset cocktail.

    What to order: Cocktails; basilica views

    Reserve

  • Terrasses Bonsecours

    American $$

    A sprawling waterfront terrace in the Old Port with a DJ-driven scene and open views across the St. Lawrence. The expansive setting suits groups and celebrations right through the summer.

    What to order: Cocktails; shareable bites; waterfront views

    Reserve

  • Terrasse sur l'Auberge

    American $$$

    The rooftop of Auberge du Vieux-Port overlooks the Old Port basin and the St. Lawrence, with front-row seats for the summer fireworks. It is an intimate, scenic perch for cocktails and small plates.

    What to order: Cocktails; small plates; river views

    Reserve

  • Marcus

    Seafood $$$$

    Chef Marcus Samuelsson's restaurant at the Four Seasons features a chic terrace in the Golden Square Mile, serving seafood and globally inspired plates. The polished setting and strong food set it apart from view-only rooftops.

    What to order: Oysters; seafood; terrace dining

    Reserve

  • Sky Complexe Terrasse

    American $$

    This rooftop terrace crowns the Sky complex in the Village with a pool, DJs, and open-air city views. It delivers an energetic, party-forward scene on summer nights.

    What to order: Cocktails; DJ scene; rooftop pool

    Reserve

  • Roselys

    Quebecois $$$

    The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth's restaurant opens onto an urban garden terrace in the heart of downtown, complete with rooftop beehives and a Quebec-focused menu. The greenery and central setting make it a refreshing warm-weather retreat.

    What to order: Brunch; cocktails; garden terrace

    Reserve

Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Montreal

Montreal's plant-based scene has grown from a niche into a genuine strength, with dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants alongside omnivore kitchens that treat vegetables as headliners.

The best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Montreal span comfort-food counters, refined seasonal tasting menus, and globally inspired spots serving everything from vegan falafel to plant-based Ethiopian and Thai.

Many of the city's produce-driven chefs source from Quebec farms and the Jean-Talon Market, so vegetable dishes here are anything but an afterthought.

Whether you are fully vegan, vegetarian, or simply eating lighter, these picks prove that meat-free dining in Montreal can be creative, satisfying, and celebratory rather than restrictive.

  • LOV

    Vegetable-forward $$$

    A stylish, plant-forward restaurant offering an elevated vegetable-centric menu in a chic, airy setting. It demonstrates how far Montreal's meat-free dining has come, with refined shareable plates and a thoughtful bar program that appeal to vegans and omnivores alike.

    What to order: Elevated plant-based sharing plates

    Reserve

  • Lola Rosa

    Vegetarian Cafe $

    A cozy vegetarian cafe and restaurant serving plant-based comfort food, hearty brunches, and baked goods. Casual and welcoming near McGill and on Saint-Laurent, it is a reliable stop for satisfying vegetarian versions of familiar favorites.

    What to order: Vegetarian brunch; loaded nachos

    Reserve

  • ChuChai

    Vegetarian Thai $$

    A longtime vegetarian Thai restaurant on Saint-Denis serving inventive faux-meat curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries. Its dedicated, flavor-focused approach has earned a loyal following over many years.

    What to order: Faux-meat curries; vegetarian satay

    Reserve

  • Aux Vivres

    Vegan $$

    A pioneering vegan spot famous for its coconut-bacon BLT, hearty Buddha bowls, and fresh smoothies. A Saint-Laurent institution since the vegan scene's early days, it remains a beloved go-to for plant-based comfort.

    What to order: Coconut-bacon BLT; Buddha bowl

    Reserve

  • Copper Branch

    Vegan $

    A Montreal-born vegan spot serving creative plant-based comfort food, power bowls, and burgers. Filling dishes and a quick, casual vibe make it a strong choice for those seeking hearty, flavorful meat-free meals.

    What to order: Plant-based power bowls; burgers

    Reserve

  • Le Nil Bleu

    Ethiopian $$

    A Saint-Denis Ethiopian restaurant with an excellent range of vegetarian and vegan combination platters served on injera. The spiced lentils, greens, and vegetable stews make it a naturally plant-friendly, communal dining experience.

    What to order: Veggie combo on injera; spiced lentils

    Reserve

  • La Panthere Verte

    Vegan $

    A casual vegan counter with a largely falafel-driven menu and plenty of organic options. Friendly and beloved by students and locals, it offers globally inspired meat-free comfort food across several neighbourhood locations.

    What to order: Vegan falafel wraps; salads

    Reserve

  • Invitation V

    Vegan Bistro $$

    A vegan bistro in Mile End serving globally influenced plant-based plates and craft cocktails. Its neighbourhood charm and creative menu make it a comfortable, reliable meat-free destination for a night out.

    What to order: Globally-inspired plant plates; cocktails

    Reserve

  • Sushi Momo

    Vegan Japanese $$

    A fully vegan Japanese spot on Saint-Denis serving hearty plant-based takes on maki, nigiri, and small plates. Its inventive, satisfying cooking makes it a meaningful stop for vegan dining beyond the usual comfort-food formats.

    What to order: Plant-based maki and nigiri

    Reserve

  • Candide

    Seasonal Quebecois $$$

    While not exclusively vegetarian, this hyper-seasonal Little Burgundy restaurant offers standout vegetable-forward dishes worth seeking out. Its produce-driven, market-led cookery makes it a great option for flexitarians dining with meat-eaters.

    What to order: Vegetable-forward seasonal plates

    Reserve

Best Smoked Meat & Iconic Montreal Eats

You cannot claim to know the best restaurants in Montreal without diving into the city's iconic hometown foods: Montreal smoked meat, wood-fired bagels, poutine, and steamed hot dogs.

Smoked meat is the headline act, brisket cured for days and hand-carved into towering sandwiches on rye, while Montreal-style bagels, thinner, sweeter, and boiled in honey water, are the bread locals actually eat every week.

Beyond those, cheese-curd-and-gravy poutine and the humble steamie are essential rites of passage. These dishes are affordable, unpretentious, and deeply tied to Montreal's immigrant and working-class roots.

Come hungry, embrace the mess, and taste the foods that define the city's culinary identity worldwide.

  • Schwartz's Deli

    Smoked Meat Deli $$

    The definitive smoked meat for many, with peppery, hand-carved brisket piled on rye with yellow mustard. A Boulevard Saint-Laurent institution since 1928, it is dependable, generous, and quintessentially Montreal.

    What to order: Medium-fat smoked meat on rye

    Reserve

  • Lester's Deli

    Smoked Meat Deli $$

    Beloved by locals for its tender smoked meat and old-school Outremont charm. The steaming platters, crisp fries, and cherry Cott soda make it a proper neighbourhood deli hang away from the tourist queues.

    What to order: Smoked meat sandwich with a Cott

    Reserve

  • St-Viateur Bagel

    Bagels $

    Famous for its wood-fired, hand-rolled bagels boiled in honey water and studded with sesame. A Mile End landmark open around the clock, it is a go-to for anyone who wants the definitive Montreal bagel hot from the oven.

    What to order: Sesame bagel, hot from the wood oven

    Reserve

  • Fairmount Bagel

    Bagels $

    The original home of the Montreal bagel, baking since 1919 just around the corner from its rival. A historic stop for bagel pilgrims, it offers the classic sesame and poppy rings in the very shop where the tradition took hold.

    What to order: Classic sesame or poppy bagel

    Reserve

  • La Banquise

    Poutine $

    The essential stop for poutine, open twenty-four hours in the Plateau with dozens of over-the-top variations. The classic curds-and-gravy or the loaded T-Rex are affordable rites of passage in a fun, no-frills setting.

    What to order: Classic poutine; La T-Rex

    Reserve

  • Wilensky's Light Lunch

    Lunch Counter $

    A quirky Mile End counter open since 1932, famous for the Wilensky Special: grilled salami and bologna on a roll, always with mustard, no exceptions. A cult favourite that rewards the ritual with a distinctive, no-frills bite.

    What to order: The Wilensky Special with mustard

    Reserve

  • Au Pied de Cochon

    Québécois $$$

    A decadent Québécois institution from chef Martin Picard, famous for its rich foie gras poutine and unapologetically hearty cooking. Touristy but genuinely memorable, it is the go-to for visitors who want the most over-the-top Montreal feast.

    What to order: Foie gras poutine

    Reserve

  • Chez Claudette

    Diner $

    A late-night Plateau diner famous for generous poutines and comforting greasy-spoon classics. It is a rowdy, only-in-Montreal experience best enjoyed after the bars close, when the poutine hits hardest.

    What to order: Late-night poutine; galvaude

    Reserve

  • Ma Poule Mouillée

    Portuguese $

    A beloved Portuguese rotisserie in the Plateau serving charcoal-grilled piri-piri chicken and a legendary loaded poutine. Standing in line for the Poulastie is a quintessential, cross-cultural Montreal meal.

    What to order: Piri-piri chicken; loaded poutine

    Reserve

  • Paul Patates

    Casse-croûte $

    A preserved Pointe-Saint-Charles snack bar serving classic steamed hot dogs, hand-cut fries, and house-made spruce beer. The steamie all-dressed with a cold bottle of épinette is nostalgia and lunch rolled into one experience.

    What to order: Steamie all-dressed with spruce beer

    Reserve

Best Restaurants in Montreal by Neighborhood

Montreal is a city of distinct neighborhoods, and the best restaurants in Montreal are scattered across them rather than concentrated in a single dining district.

The Plateau-Mont-Royal and Mile End form a beloved bohemian hub of delis, bagels, and bistros, while Little Burgundy and Griffintown along Notre-Dame Ouest anchor the chef-driven modern scene.

La Petite-Italie around Jean-Talon Market and the compact Chinatown reward those who eat their way through the markets, and Old Montreal pairs fine dining with cobblestone history.

Using neighborhoods to plan your meals lets you pair dining with sightseeing, walkable strolls, and a genuine sense of local life. This roundup spotlights a signature restaurant in several key areas to help you eat your way across the city.

  • Plateau-Mont-Royal, Schwartz's Deli

    Jewish Deli $$

    The Saint-Laurent landmark that defined Montreal smoked meat, hand-carved and piled on rye since 1928. The Plateau is the city's classic strolling neighborhood, and this cramped counter is its most iconic bite. Expect a line and cash-friendly speed.

    What to order: Smoked meat sandwich; karnatzel

    Reserve

  • Mile End, Lawrence

    Bistro $$$

    A British-inflected bistro anchoring one of the city's most creative neighborhoods, with whole-animal cooking and a famous weekend brunch. Artsy, unpretentious, and walkable, it is the ideal introduction to Mile End's independent food culture.

    What to order: Whole-animal plates; brunch

    Reserve

  • Little Burgundy, Joe Beef

    French-Quebec $$$$

    The dark, convivial Notre-Dame Ouest institution that helped ignite Montreal's modern dining boom. Decadent, market-driven, and gloriously excessive, it captures the neighborhood's transformation into a culinary destination. Reservations are tough but worth it.

    What to order: Lobster spaghetti; foie gras

    Reserve

  • Old Montreal, Toque!

    Quebec Fine Dining $$$$

    Normand Laprise's refined temple of Quebec terroir, near the cobblestones of Old Montreal and the Quartier International. It is the essential reason to plan a special meal downtown, with immaculate tasting menus built on local producers.

    What to order: Tasting menu; foie gras

    Reserve

  • La Petite-Italie, Impasto

    Italian $$$

    Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione's warm Italian room a short walk from Jean-Talon Market in the heart of Little Italy. Pair a visit with the market's stalls and espresso bars for a full cultural and culinary afternoon.

    What to order: House pasta; charcuterie

    Reserve

  • Chinatown, Maison Kam Fung

    Cantonese $$

    Montreal's Chinatown, near the Quartier des spectacles, offers cart dim sum, roast meats, and bustling banquet halls. A dumpling-and-tea crawl through the neighborhood is a rewarding, affordable culinary outing.

    What to order: Dim sum; roast pork; har gow

    Reserve

  • Griffintown, Nora Gray

    Southern Italian $$$

    A stylish, dimly lit room serving soulful Southern Italian cooking in the fast-rising Griffintown corridor. Inventive, warm, and beloved by locals, it exemplifies the neighborhood's shift into a serious dining destination.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; polenta

    Reserve

  • Villeray, Tapeo

    Spanish Tapas $$

    A lively Spanish tapas bar that put this quiet northeast neighborhood on the culinary map. Sharing plates, sherry, and a buzzy dining room make Villeray a rewarding, low-key destination away from the tourist core.

    What to order: Tapas; croquetas; patatas bravas

    Reserve

  • Saint-Henri, Tuck Shop

    Market Bistro $$$

    A tiny, seasonal neighborhood bistro on Notre-Dame that draws diners across the city with its market-driven menu. Cozy and chef-run, it is a compelling reason to explore the shops and cafes of up-and-coming Saint-Henri.

    What to order: Seasonal plates; daily specials

    Reserve

  • Outremont, Damas

    Syrian $$$$

    A glamorous, refined Syrian restaurant in leafy Outremont, celebrated for its fragrant mezze and grilled meats. It is a standout special-occasion anchor and a genuine reason to venture into this elegant residential quarter.

    What to order: Cherry kebab; muhammara; fattoush

    Reserve

Best New & Trendy Restaurant Openings in Montreal

Montreal's dining scene never stands still, and the best new and trendy restaurant openings in Montreal keep the city on the national radar year after year.

Recent momentum has centered on Verdun's Wellington Street corridor, ambitious neighbourhood debuts across Saint-Henri and Griffintown, and chefs branching out from acclaimed flagships to launch second and third concepts.

New openings tend to book up fast on buzz alone, so flexibility with dates and early or late seatings helps. Because the freshest spots evolve quickly, it is always worth checking current local coverage before you go.

These picks highlight recently opened and buzzy restaurants that capture where Montreal dining is heading right now.

  • Elena

    Italian $$$

    The Saint-Henri favourite from the Nora Gray team turns produce-driven cooking and wood-fired pizzas into an all-day neighbourhood destination. Excellent handmade pastas and a lively room have made it one of the city's most talked-about Italian spots.

    What to order: Wood-fired pizza; handmade pasta

    Reserve

  • Beba

    Argentine $$$

    Chef Ari Schor's Verdun restaurant blends Argentine roots with seasonal Quebec produce in a warm, family-run room. Its standout vegetable dishes and unfussy grilling have kept it firmly in the conversation as a modern favourite.

    What to order: Seasonal Argentine plates; vegetables

    Reserve

  • Foxy

    Live-Fire $$$

    A wood-fired Griffintown restaurant that earned rapid acclaim for its open-flame cooking and seasonal, market-driven plates. Its energetic room and distinctive point of view make it emblematic of Montreal's adventurous new wave.

    What to order: Wood-fired grill; seasonal plates

    Reserve

  • Le Violon

    French Bistro $$$

    Chef Danny Smiles brings polished French cooking and Parisian energy to a buzzy Saint-Laurent Boulevard room. Its refined bistro plates and see-and-be-seen crowd made it an instant destination.

    What to order: Refined French bistro fare

    Reserve

  • Bar St-Denis

    French Bistro $$

    A cozy Plateau neighbourhood bistro exemplifies the wine-bar-meets-kitchen trend with a short, seasonal menu. Warm, unpretentious, and reasonably priced, it reflects a move toward comforting cooking outside the downtown core.

    What to order: Seasonal bistro plates; natural wine

    Reserve

  • Faros

    Greek $$$

    A Mile End taverna that reinvigorated Greek dining with wood-grilled fish, meats, and contemporary mezze. Its lively atmosphere and generous shared plates keep it popular for groups.

    What to order: Wood-grilled fish; mezze

    Reserve

  • Le Mousso

    New Quebecois $$$$

    A design-forward Ville-Marie restaurant blending fine dining with an immersive, ever-changing tasting menu rooted in Quebec ingredients. Its creative, theatrical approach makes it one of the city's most distinctive tables.

    What to order: Immersive seasonal tasting menu

    Reserve

  • Gia Vin & Grill

    Italian $$$$

    A glamorous Old Montreal Italian grill with handmade pastas, wood-fired meats, and an elegant, buzzy room. It represents the polished, upscale Italian dining that continues to draw crowds downtown.

    What to order: Handmade pasta; wood-fired grill

    Reserve

  • Junior / Filipino newcomers

    Filipino $$

    A growing wave of Filipino kitchens, led by longtime favourite Junior in Little Burgundy, has energized the scene with everything from casual eateries to ambitious concepts. They reflect one of Montreal's most exciting current culinary movements.

    What to order: Casual to ambitious Filipino plates

    Reserve

  • Time Out Market / food halls

    Food Hall $$

    Curated food halls like Time Out Market Montreal in the Eaton Centre and Le Central downtown gather standout local vendors under one roof, offering an easy way to sample multiple buzzy chefs and cuisines in a single, casual visit.

    What to order: Multiple local vendors under one roof

    Reserve

Frequently Asked Questions

What food is Montreal most famous for?

Montreal is most famous for smoked meat, best known at Schwartz's Deli. Locals also love Montreal-style bagels, poutine, and Quebecois comfort food, plus acclaimed fine dining like Toque and Joe Beef.

Where can I get the best smoked meat in Montreal?

Top smoked meat spots include Schwartz's on The Main, Lester's Deli in Outremont, and Snowdon Deli. The Main Deli sits right across from Schwartz's. Try more than one.

Do I need reservations for top Montreal restaurants?

Yes. Sought-after spots like Toque, Joe Beef, and Au Pied de Cochon need reservations booked weeks ahead. Schwartz's is walk-in only. Book early or sit at the bar.

Which Montreal neighborhoods are best for dining?

The Mile End and Plateau Mont-Royal are the buzziest hub. Little Italy, Little Burgundy, and Old Montreal have chef-driven spots, Chinatown offers affordable Asian cuisine, and downtown has steakhouses.

How expensive is fine dining in Montreal?

Montreal's top tasting menus are a splurge, typically $$$$ per person before pairings. Neighborhood bistros, bagel shops, and spots like La Banquise offer great value. Check current menus.

Are there good vegetarian and vegan options in Montreal?

Yes. Vegan and vegetarian spots include LOV, Aux Vivres, and Copper Branch. Many bistro kitchens accommodate vegan menus with notice, and Ethiopian spots like Le Nil Bleu offer plant-based platters.