Must-Try Restaurants in Montreal: 12 Iconic Food Experiences

Some meals define a city. If you only have a few days in Montreal, or if you live here and want to tick off the classics, start with these iconic experiences.

1. Smoked meat at Schwartz’s on Saint-Laurent, open since 1928. Order it medium-fat with a pickle and a cherry soda.
2. Hot bagels in Mile End from St-Viateur or Fairmount, baked in wood-fired ovens.
3. Poutine at La Banquise, open 24 hours, or at your neighbourhood casse-croûte.
4. The “Special” at Wilensky’s, a grilled salami and bologna sandwich served the same way since 1932.
5. Brunch on the Plateau, for example at Beauty’s on Mont-Royal Avenue, open since 1942.
6. A French bistro dinner at L’Express on Saint-Denis, a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
7. Portuguese chicken grilled over charcoal, a Plateau tradition.
8. Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy for seasonal Quebec produce, cheese and maple products.
9. Syrian cuisine at Le Petit Alep, also a Bib Gourmand.
10. A sugar shack meal (cabane à sucre) in spring, just outside the city.
11. A Michelin-starred tasting menu for a special occasion; see our Michelin guide.
12. A BYOW dinner: bring your own bottle to one of the many “apportez votre vin” restaurants.

Tips

• The famous spots have lines; go mid-afternoon or on weekdays.
• Some classic places are cash-friendly or card-only; check before you go.
• Hours change with the seasons, so confirm before visiting.

Next: hidden restaurants in Montreal and cheap eats.