15 Must-Try Montreal Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Montreal is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offering an array of dining options that cater to every taste. From exquisite fine dining to casual family-friendly venues, the city stands out as one of the best places to eat and drink in Canada, surpassing even larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Here, we’ll explore some of the finest dining establishments in Montreal, presenting choices that reflect the city’s multicultural and innovative food landscape.

Best Fine Dining: Joe Beef

Address: 2491 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H3J 1N6, Canada

Phone: +1 514-935-6504

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To say Joe Beef is a Montreal institution would be a severe understatement. Owners and chefs David McMillan and Fred Morin have been serving natural wine, seasonal fare, and a humble home for everyone from international chefs and celebrities to students and young families since opening their doors more than a decade ago. This restaurant feels like stepping into a family friend’s home for a decadent and inviting meal, rather than an internationally renowned landmark.

Best Vegan and Vegetarian: LOV

Montreal has its fair share of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, but nothing comes close to the exceptionally innovative fare you’ll find at LOV. The acronym stands for Local, Organic, and Vegan, where the cuisine is anything but standard. Expect creative dishes like smoked beet sandwiches and truffle zucchini spaghetti. Both the Old Montreal and downtown locations are usually crowded with patrons, so be sure to consider visiting during off-peak hours.

Best Quebecois Fare: Au Pied de Cochon

Address: 536 Av. Duluth E, Montréal, QC H2L 1A9, Canada

Au Pied de Cochon has become a staple for tourists and locals alike, particularly for its exaggerated Quebecois dishes such as foie gras poutine and “duck in a can.” Despite its high-end status, the dining experience is welcoming and humble, making it a favorite among many. A word to the wise: bring your appetite.

Best Wine Bar: Le Vin Papillon

Address: 2519 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H3J 1N4, Canada

Phone: +1 514-439-6494

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Le Vin Papillon is known for its small, vegetable-centric plates and a fabulous selection of natural wines. It offers a cozy atmosphere, resembling a home gathering rather than a typical restaurant environment. Expect to enjoy a unique mix of seasonal dishes and innovative wine pairings.

Best Seafood: Estiatorio Milos

Address: 5357 Av du Parc, Montréal, QC H2V 4G9, Canada

Phone: +1 514-272-3522

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Estiatorio Milos is renowned for serving some of the freshest seafood in Montreal. The restaurant showcases a variety of fish and shellfish, all displayed on ice and cooked to order, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in the city.

Best Pastries: Café Bazin

Address: 380 Av. Victoria, Westmount, QC H3Z 2N4, Canada

Phone: +1 438-387-3070

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Montreal’s French influence gets you some of the best pastries in the city. Head to Café Bazin for traditional treats like croissants and pain au chocolat, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike on weekend mornings.

Best Pizza: Elena

Address: 5090 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H4C 1T1, Canada

Phone: +1 514-379-4883

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Elena is a remarkable dining spot that provides a welcoming space for both casual meals and family gatherings. Its focus on natural wines and freshly made pizza creates a delightful experience, making it one of the top Italian spots in town.

Best Sushi: Park

Address: 378 Av. Victoria, Westmount, QC H3Z 2N4, Canada

Phone: +1 514-750-7534

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Park specializes in delivering one-of-a-kind sushi experiences using the freshest fish sourced from Japan. The combination of high-quality ingredients and artistic presentation makes it a local favorite in the sushi scene.

Best Gluten-free: Petit Lapin

Address: 342A Av. Victoria, Westmount, QC H3Z 2M8, Canada

Phone: +1 514-507-4077

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Pâtisserie Petit Lapin is a delightful spot that caters to those with food allergies. Everything is gluten-free, vegan, and delicious, making it a perfect place for those seeking sweet treats without compromising their dietary needs.

Best Brasserie: L’Express

Address: 3927 R. Saint-Denis, Montréal, QC H2W 2M4, Canada

Phone: +1 514-845-5333

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L’Express, a beloved French-style brasserie, has been serving locals since 1980. Offering a menu with various delectable dishes at different price points, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and tourists craving traditional French cuisine.

Best Breakfast: Beautys

Address: 93 Avenue du Mont-Royal O, Montréal, QC H2T 2S5, Canada

Phone: +1 514-849-8883

This breakfast haven has been a neighborhood favorite since 1942, known for its classic dishes such as omelets and breakfast melts. It fills up quickly, making an early visit worthwhile to avoid long waits.

Best Bring Your Own Wine: Le Smoking Vallée

Located in St-Henri, this cozy French bistro offers a seasonal menu paired with a bring your own wine option, making it an enjoyable dining experience. Opt for the tasting menu for a specially curated selection of dishes.

Best Family-friendly: Gibeau Orange Julep

Address: 7700 Bd Décarie, Montréal, QC H4P 2H4, Canada

Phone: +1 514-738-7486

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The iconic Gibeau Orange Julep is much loved in the city, famous for its unique structure and delicious casual fare such as hot-dogs and hamburgers. It’s a fun location for families, particularly during the summer months.

Best Terrace: Perché

Address: 153 Rue Saint-Amable, Montréal, QC H2Y 1E7, Canada

Phone: +1 514-379-2010

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Perché offers a rooftop terrace that serves as an oasis from the tourist bustle, perfect for enjoying innovative cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.

Best Brunch: Spanel

Address: 1960 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H3J 1M8, Canada

Phone: +1 514-507-5017

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Spanel specializes in crepes, making it a go-to spot for pancake lovers. It offers a vibrant atmosphere, particularly enjoyable during the bustling weekend brunch hours.