Boustan

Boustan was founded in 1986 by Karim Saab, known to regulars as Mr. Boustan, and its Rue Crescent counter became a downtown institution. Former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau was among its regulars, as were players from the Canadiens and the Alouettes. The name comes from the Persian word for garden. From this single counter, Boustan grew into a franchise with dozens of locations across the region.

How to get there

The Crescent Street counter is downtown, a short walk from Peel and Guy-Concordia metro stations (green line). Rue Crescent is one of Montreal’s best-known nightlife streets, lined with bars and terraces, and it hosts a festival during Grand Prix weekend.

What to order

Lebanese fast food is the specialty: chicken and beef shawarma wraps and plates, falafel, garlic sauce, hummus, tabbouleh and fattoush. Bowls and salads offer lighter options, and the chain has added vegan choices. It is a quick, satisfying stop at lunch or after a night out on Crescent.

Atmosphere

This is a busy, functional counter where speed matters. At lunch, office workers and students line up; late at night, the crowd shifts to people leaving the bars. The Crescent location keeps late hours, especially on weekends.

Plan your visit

Boustan’s Crescent Street counter is open late, which makes it a classic stop after a night out downtown. At lunch, the line moves quickly but can be long around noon. Rue Crescent is especially lively during Grand Prix weekend in June, when the street becomes a festival. The chain also operates many other locations across Greater Montreal, so you can easily find one near you if you are not downtown.

Good to know

• Address: 2020 Rue Crescent, Montréal, QC H3G 2B8
• Phone: 514-843-3194
• Nearest metro: Peel or Guy-Concordia (green line)
• Neighbourhood: Downtown Montreal, Rue Crescent
• Cuisine: Lebanese, quick service
• Budget: $
• Best for: Quick lunches, late-night bites, students
• Tip: Lines are common at peak hours and after bars close on weekends

Why it is on our list

Boustan is part of downtown Montreal folklore and a reference for the city’s beloved Lebanese street food. For more budget-friendly options, see our guide to cheap eats in Montreal.

Hours, menus and prices change often. Confirm opening hours and reservation policies directly with the restaurant before you go.