As soon as the warm weather arrives, bringing green grass and blossoming trees, Montreal reveals its true character. With our strong park culture, these spaces quickly fill up with groups of friends, families, and people coming to enjoy the sun, celebrate, or simply slow down. One thing brings them all together, though: the picnic.
And when we say picnic, we mean good food to enjoy while sitting on the grass or at a picnic table, if you're lucky. Whether they consist of sandwiches, salads, cheeses, or little treats to share, outdoor meals are an integral part of the Montreal way of life.
Fortunately, the restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and gourmet shops located near the city's major parks compete in creativity to offer takeout options that are as delicious as they are convenient. From artisanal sandwiches to platters to share, each spot develops its own signature style to appeal to all types of picnickers.
From the banks of the St. Lawrence River to the heights of Mount Royal, discover the best spots to stop by before settling into one of the city's large green spaces. Everything you need to turn any picnic into a real feast, without any fuss.
Lafontaine Park
Robin des Bois
3933 Avenue du Parc la Fontaine, Montreal, H2L 0C7
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Located right in the park, this socially conscious restaurant turns your Montreal picnic into an authentic experience surrounded by trees and a pond. Their "Bouffe & Bar" counter offers homemade dishes that are perfect for taking to the park. The red lentil soup with dhal is easy to take along, as are the brioche Cuban sandwich or the Dragon Bowl with rice, tofu, broccoli, and a variety of fresh ingredients. The homemade menu shines with its diversity, featuring generous nachos, a veggie sandwich with ricotta hummus, or their charcuterie and cheese platters to share (or not). Picnic meals in Montreal take on a whole new dimension when they come from a place that supports local organizations, turning your trip to the park into an act of solidarity.
Sandwicherie Sue
951 Avenue Duluth E, Montreal, H2L 4X5
A true ambassador of Vietnamese street food, this spot specializing in gourmet bánh mì has been revolutionizing Montreal's sandwich scene since 2015 with its fresh, perfectly seasoned creations. The five-spice caramelized char siu pork and the chicken-ginger sandwich with house-made sauce are perfect for a picnic at Lafontaine Park. They're served with spring rolls filled with glass noodles, mint, and cilantro. Homemade Sue lemonade and bubble tea in a variety of flavors add a refreshing touch to these takeout meals for the park. With their ultra-fresh bread and crisp, marinated vegetables, every bite confirms why this Asian specialty grocery store transforms a simple takeout lunch into a delicious feast. It offers authentic and memorable picnic meals.
Le Petit Coin Dumpling
1201 Rue Rachel E, Montreal, H2J 2J8
Another excellent option near La Fontaine Park, this charming spot is among the best places to enjoy dumplings in Montreal. Located just a stone's throw from the park, the restaurant offers a wide variety of dumplings, available steamed or fried. You'll find several pork classics, such as pork and cilantro or pork and shrimp, as well as beef, chicken, and lamb options, not to mention five vegetarian choices. Order a small platter to share, add some peanut sauce, and you're all set for a slightly more indulgent, unique, and absolutely delicious picnic. A great way to switch things up from the traditional sandwich while enjoying the sunshine in the park.
Laurier Park
Café In Gamba
1258 Avenue Laurier E, Montreal, H2J 1H1
This In Gamba location is literally right on the corner of Laurier Park. With its prime location, it's no surprise to see its patio fill up as soon as the first warm days of spring arrive and throughout the summer. In addition to its excellent specialty coffees and summer iced drinks, such as homemade raspberry lemonade, peach iced tea, or iced coffee and matcha, the café also offers a wonderful lunch menu. The trio combo is particularly appealing for a picnic, as it lets you pair one of their four focaccia sandwiches, ham and brie, grilled cheese, tuna and lemon, or a vegan option with chickpea and bell pepper spread, with a salad and a drink. The perfect combination for a balanced picnic, accompanied by a delicious coffee or a refreshing house-made beverage.
Stella Pizzeria
1327 Avenue Laurier E, Montreal, H2J 1H4
Open seven days a week from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Stella is just a few minutes' walk from Laurier Park and is a great option for a pizza-themed picnic. Whether you're visiting for lunch or dinner, the restaurant offers delicious homemade pizzas to go, along with a few perfect sides to round out your meal, such as Caesar-style kale salad, arugula salad, or a charcuterie platter. When it comes to pizzas, the menu ranges from classics like the Margherita or Simplicity to more elaborate creations. Among them is the Montagnarde, topped with prosciutto, goat cheese, caramelized figs, fior di latte, homemade tomato sauce, and arugula, or the Orientale, featuring lamb meatballs, pistachio pesto, and mint yogurt. Whether you're dining alone, as a couple, or in a group, Stella has everything you need to satisfy everyone's cravings. All you have to do is place your order and head to the park. As a bonus, there's an SAQ right next door to round out the feast.
Jeanne-Mance Park and Mount Royal Park
Onigiri Shop
102. Rue Saint-Viateur O, Montreal, H2T 2L1
The ancient Japanese art of onigiri finds its ideal home in the Montreal scene with these artisanal creations, handmade daily according to tradition. The dozen available options range from traditional flavors to bold fusion creations, such as the beef tama and the chef's specials "Saumon luxe" or "Mont Fuji." This variety is offered in a super convenient takeout format. Their generous portions and meticulous preparation create cold takeout dishes perfect for snacking on the grass or sharing with friends at Jeanne-Mance Park. Each rice triangle wrapped in nori seaweed is a burst of flavor that travels hassle-free, with careful packaging that preserves its freshness. Their compact size and affordable price of $4.99 make them the perfect budget-friendly yet tasty option for takeout meals at the park. With several locations across the city, simply check for the one closest to your desired park to enjoy this unique alternative.
Roll'V - Vietnamese Cuisine
4512 Avenue du Parc, Montreal, H2V 4E3
For a light and refreshing picnic, Roll V is a great option just a short walk from Jeanne-Mance Park. This 100% gluten-free Vietnamese spot offers colorful spring rolls, hearty rice noodle bowls, crisp salads, and even innovative takes on bánh mì. The portions are easy to take on the go and especially enjoyable on hot summer days, when you're looking for something light rather than a heartier meal.
FineFineFine Café
4268 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montreal, H2W 1Z3
Located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard just minutes from Jeanne-Mance Park, Finefinefine, this new café on the Plateau, is already a hit. In addition to its excellent specialty coffees, the spot offers a great selection of pastries, sandwiches, and baked goods perfect for taking to the park. Whether you opt for a focaccia sandwich, a homemade pastry, or simply an iced coffee paired with a sweet treat, the spot offers exactly the kind of simple, refined menu that lends itself to afternoons spent in the sun on the slopes of Mount Royal.
Lachine Canal & Parc du Sud-Ouest
Nonnina
1865 Rue Notre-Dame, Montreal, H8S 2E9
A must-visit spot in LaSalle since 2019, this Italian "little grandmother" has mastered the art of bringing authentic Italy to life in creations that are perfect for a picnic by the Lachine Canal. Their sandwiches on homemade focaccia, notably the Nonnina with capicollo, lettuce, fresh mozzarella, mufaletta spread, and bomba sauce, showcase an artisanal expertise that shines through in every bite. The Italian sausage panini topped with Bomba spread and roasted red peppers is a perfect takeout option for the Promenade Père-Marquette, and paired with their wide selection of salads and Parmesan fries, it creates delicious outdoor dining moments. The family-friendly spirit of this café-bistro is reflected in every detail, from the carefully selected ingredients to the thoughtful packaging. It transforms every trip to the park into a celebration of the Italian way of life. The takeout meals are generous and delicious.
Atwater Market
You can't talk about picnics in Montreal without mentioning Atwater Market. With its cheese counters, artisanal charcuterie, fresh seasonal fruit, marinated olives, pastries, and bread fresh from the oven, you'll find everything you need to put together a picnic of your own. Whether you choose to set up by the Lachine Canal or in one of the neighborhood's green spaces, a few stops at the market are all it takes to create one of the city's most beautiful picnics.
Jarry Park
Lahmajoune Villeray
420 Rue Faillon E, Montreal, H2R 1L4
Four decades of family expertise have forged the reputation of this Villeray institution, which reigns supreme in the art of homemade lahmajoune in the Quebec City metropolis. Their crispy pizzas topped with spiced meat and their manouchés with five Mediterranean cheeses make for authentic and delicious lunches near Jarry Park.The appetizer platters designed for sharing (serves 5-6) elevate the concept into a true nomadic feast, complemented by mezze such as hummus, baba ganoush, and creamy labneh. The warm, smiling welcome from the family who owns the place turns every visit into a special occasion, while their refreshing ayran is the perfect accompaniment to these takeout options for a picnic. The meat kibbehs and sweet triangle baklavas satisfy every palate, creating a perfect balance between savory and sweet. Open seven days a week, this establishment proves that artisanal excellence can adapt to modern urban rhythms.
Lily - Manger Vivre Aimer
Multiple locations
Just a short walk from Jarry Park, Lily is one of those charming neighbourhood cafés that makes putting together a simple, fresh and delicious picnic effortless. Alongside its specialty coffees and refreshing iced drinks, the café offers a great selection of sandwiches and toasts that are easy to take to the park. Standout options include the Rosé Salé, made with prosciutto, pesto, avocado, mozzarella and tomatoes, as well as several chicken, tuna and vegetarian sandwiches. Breakfast lovers will also appreciate the selection of toasts, including the classic avocado toast topped with eggs or smoked salmon. To complete the experience, Lily even sells beautiful picnic blankets at both of its locations, conveniently situated near Jarry Park and Bois-Franc Park. Orders are carefully packed in attractive takeout boxes and bags, making them perfect for a spontaneous outing in the sun. With its warm atmosphere and commitment to quality ingredients, Lily is the perfect place to stop before heading to the park.
Old Montreal and the Old Port
Ciccio's
411 Rue Saint-Nicolas, Montreal, H2Y 2P4
Regulars are truly smitten with this Italian sandwich shop near the Old Port. It has mastered the art of takeout options for picnics with its simple, high-quality creations. The Primo sandwich with mortadella and the Tacchino with smoked turkey showcase their expertise, accompanied by colorful salads, such as the Old School with endives and radicchio. Their mouthwatering charcuterie plates make for perfect takeout meals to share in the park, while the antipasto platter adds a festive touch to outings. The Caprese panini with prosciutto and the Tonno with olives round out a selection that rivals the best spots in the area. The warm atmosphere invites you to take your time, even for quick orders, creating that unique vibe where every moment becomes a fond memory. Delicious coffee and authentic Italian flair transform every takeout lunch into a tasty Mediterranean getaway right by the waters of the St. Lawrence.
Le Passé Composé
701 Rue William, Montreal, H3C 0T9
Renowned for years for its excellent in-house brunches, this iconic establishment moved to Old Montreal last fall. It took the opportunity to launch its brand-new café-bistro section, offering takeout options that are just as delicious as its reputation suggests. Their signature sandwiches, such as the brunch croissant with duck egg, cheddar, and leeks; the "Passé Composé" bagel with smoked salmon on a St-Viateur bagel; or one of their decadent grilled cheese sandwiches, perfectly translate the excellence of their cuisine to their takeout options in the Old Port. The varied menu, which caters to all dietary needs, from a quick breakfast to indulgent smoothies, along with fast service and a warm atmosphere, make this spot an ideal destination. Here, a quick meal goes hand in hand with elegance.
Maisonneuve Park and Olympic Stadium
Café Hélico
2009 Avenue de la Salle, Montreal, H1V 2K6
Founded in 2018, this flavor laboratory on Avenue de la Salle excels in the art of creating portable moments of relaxation. Its philosophy, "everything is designed to be enjoyed wherever you want", proves ideal near the Olympic Stadium and Maisonneuve Park. Their sandwiches, such as the fennel-sausage-egg breakfast sandwich or the Cuban sandwich with braised pork, ham, mustard, relish, and Swiss cheese, as well as the bowl of homemade yogurt and granola with fresh fruit, pecans, and maple syrup offer takeout options for a delicious picnic from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their collaboration with roaster Jungle and Aube Boulangerie reflects their commitment to local excellence, turning every cup of coffee and pastry into a special moment. Innovative cold beverages, such as the Café Spritz and seasonal lemonade, round out this offering from the Hélicoptère community, enriching the restaurant scene near the parks in East Montreal.
Canard Café
4299 Rue Ontario E, Montreal, H1V 1K4
A true community born from Pierre and Amélie's vision since the fall of 2019, this local third-wave coffee chain is redefining the standards for picnic takeout options. It is committed to quality and ethics. Their menu features innovative grilled cheese sandwiches, such as the Braised Ham with Caramelized Onions. They also offer creative sandwiches, such as the Confit Duck Baguette or the Hot Duck with duck sausage. These creations demonstrate a creativity that goes far beyond traditional coffee. Their selection of meal-sized salads pairs perfectly with their specialty coffees, creating sophisticated takeout lunches for Maisonneuve Park. The Nordic Platter and house-made salmon gravlax offer original alternatives to conventional breakfasts, perfect for active mornings around the Olympic Stadium. Located in three Montreal neighborhoods (Rosemont, Ville-Marie, and Hochelaga), each location cultivates a welcoming atmosphere where their "bean-to-cup" philosophy enriches the Montreal coffee experience with authenticity and passion.
Two must-visit stops before heading to your picnic
Bernie Beigne
23 Rue Bernard O, Montreal, H2T 2J6
Because a good picnic always deserves a little something sweet, Bernie Beigne is a must-visit stop before heading to your favorite park. Renowned for its soft, generously filled artisanal donuts, this Mile End spot offers flavors that change regularly with the seasons and the team's inspiration. Whether shared with friends or kept all to yourself, their creations add a delicious finishing touch to any outdoor meal.
Boulangerie Guillaume
5170 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montreal, H2T 1R8
Whether you're looking to round out a picnic or put one together from scratch, Boulangerie Guillaume is always a great stop before heading to the park. Renowned for its artisanal breads and freshly baked baguettes, the shop also offers a fine selection of pastries, salads, and prepared foods perfect for taking on the go. You can stop by for a baguette and a few pastries to share, or put together a full meal to enjoy on the grass. With its artisanal approach and high-quality products, it's the kind of place that turns a simple picnic into a little feast!
To discover even more delicious options for your outings, check out our section on sandwiches and takeout, which lists the best spots in the city. You'll also find our comprehensive guide to sandwiches, banh mi, and poke bowls, so you can mix things up depending on what you're in the mood for.