Montreal, the largest city in Quebec, Canada, is an exciting destination home to a collection of incredible restaurants that make it difficult to narrow them all down. From upscale French eateries to casual delis, there is a top-notch restaurant in the city to please any taste and any budget. Montreal is truly a city for foodies, and these top restaurants will not disappoint.
Bouillon Bilk
Bouillon Bilk continues to top every “best food in Montreal” list out there and for a good reason. This swanky restaurant serves modern French-influenced food for lunch and dinner. The dinner menu dazzles with variation, as seafood, beef, lamb, and even vegetarian options are served here. Also, lunch is a popular time to dine at Bouillon Bilk, as the lower price point appeals to many diners without sacrificing quality and attention.
1595 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2X 2S9, Canada— +1 514-845-1595
Au Pied de Cochon
Meat lovers searching for an upscale dinner option in Plateau Mont-Royal should consider Au Pied de Cochon. Au Pied de Cochon is a Montreal classic, serving various unique Québécois menu options, such as pig’s hoof, duck in a can, or their gourmet foie gras poutine. You’ll want to make room for dessert here, as the maple pudding chômeur is the best ending to a Montreal meal here.
Schwartz’s Deli
Not all superb restaurants in Montreal are housed inside fine dining establishments. Schwartz’s Deli, a Jewish deli originally opened in 1928, specializes in smoked meat sandwiches. Add yellow mustard and some fries, and you have a filling meal that will keep you going for the rest of the day as you explore Montreal’s sites. The popularity of this unpretentious deli has grown. Therefore, prepare for a possible line out the door.
3895 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2W 1X9, Canada— +1 514-842-4813
L'Express
A go-to restaurant for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late at night, L’Express is a Parisian-style bistro that serves classic French fare. The French vibe here is strong, from the décor to the menu. Feast on baguettes, steak tartare, cornichons, croque monsieur, and of course French wine. There’s a reason why L’Express has been filled with happy customers for nearly four decades now.
3927 R. Saint-Denis, Montréal, QC H2W 2M4, Canada— +1 514-845-5333
Satay Brothers
Satay Brothers is a refreshing change to the number of French restaurants in Montreal. This Singaporean eatery is not only affordable but absolutely delicious. From chicken satay to pork buns to lobster chow mein, there is an item on the menu to please several palates. Even vegetarians will have plenty to eat here too.
3721 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H4C 1P8, Canada— +1 514-933-3507
Nora Gray
The best pasta in town is served at Nora Gray, a Griffintown Italian eatery. Classic Italian dishes are creatively crafted here, including the duck-heart Bolognese sauce served on top of asparagus ravioli. The dishes here will resemble Southern Italian fare while maintaining a uniqueness that is hard to imitate. No matter what you eat at Nora Gray, you’ll want to pair it with one of the great Italian wines.
1391 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, QC H3C 1H2, Canada— +1 514-419-6672
Ma Poule Mouillée
If you’re craving Portuguese food in Montreal, look no further than Ma Poule Mouillée. Iconic Portuguese dishes are served here, but the Portuguese Poutine is the main showstopper at Ma Poule Mouillée. The Portuguese Poutine is served with rotisserie chicken, chorizo, and São Jorge cheese. For a healthier option, choose the chicken plate served with piri-piri sauce.
969 Rachel St E, Montreal, QC H2J 2J2, Canada— +1 514-522-5175
Damas
You’ll leave this Syrian, Persian-influenced eatery feeling full and satisfied after indulging in incredible Middle Eastern cuisines like baba ghanouj, falafel, and charcoal-grilled meats. Lamb shoulder kabob, beef tenderloin skewer, and Damascus-style chicken breast are just a few of the popular grilled meat options at Damas.
1201 Av. Van Horne, Outremont, QC H2V 1K4, Canada— +1 514-439-5435
Joe Beef
If you’re lucky enough to get a reservation at Joe Beef, this relaxed Little Burgundy spot will not disappoint. The lobster pasta is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, but anything you see posted on the blackboard menu is sure to please. At Joe Beef, everything is made in-house; the restaurant brews its beer, smokes its meats, and distills spirits onsite.
2491 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H3J 1N6, Canada— +1 514-935-6504
Toqué!
The ambiance at Toqué! is just as satisfying as the menu here. This Old Montreal eatery is ideal for either lunch or dinner. Serving contemporary Québécois cuisine, the dishes at Toqué! are crafted with local ingredients. Save time to savor lunch here, as the three-course lunch menu is worth your time. If you’re heading to Toqué! for dinner, the seven-course tasting menu is well worth the price tag.
900 Pl. Jean-Paul-Riopelle, Montréal, QC H2Z 2B2, Canada— +1 514-499-2084
