French cuisine, renowned worldwide for its refinement and artistry, holds a special place in Montreal. In this city, where cultural diversity is also reflected in the cuisine, many French restaurants skillfully blend tradition and innovation.
What defines a good French restaurant is the delicate balance between classic dishes like coq au vin, foie gras, or garlic butter escargots, and a modern twist brought by passionate chefs. From the spicy flavors of the Basque Country, with dishes like poulet basquaise, to the Mediterranean aromas of Provence, where olive oil and herbs dominate, each establishment featured in this article offers a true exploration of the regions of France. Seafood lovers will delight in Normandy-worthy seafood platters, while those who prefer heartier dishes can indulge in a Toulouse cassoulet or an Alsatian choucroute.
The focus is on top-quality ingredients, often sourced locally, and a meticulously curated wine list, with a special emphasis on private imports and organic wines. This article presents a selection of restaurants that embody the excellence of French bistronomy in Montreal, inviting you to rediscover the traditional flavors of France with every visit.
Le Molière Brasserie Française
1560 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3K3
For those seeking the authenticity of a French brasserie, Le Molière, nestled in the Quartier des Spectacles, is an essential stop. Enjoy specialties like moules façon poulette, bavette with pepper sauce, calf's liver, and delicious crêpes Suzette. On Sundays, the ambiance transforms with a piano brunch, adding a cultural and flavorful atmosphere. A varied selection of wines and beers perfectly complements the dishes, offering an authentic bistronomy experience. Ideal for a meal before or after the theater, Le Molière also features a private room for special events.
3635 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2X 3L6
Located on the Plateau-Mont-Royal, Café Cherrier is a staple for lovers of French bistronomy. Since 1983, this bistro has offered classics such as fish soup, salads with warm goat cheese or lardons, and signature dishes like Toulouse sausages, croque-monsieur, quiches, black pudding with caramelized apples, and calf's liver. The spacious terrace, shaded by vines, creates the perfect setting for summer brunches and aperitifs. Each season brings new dishes, ensuring continuous discovery, all accompanied by a carefully selected wine list.
170 Rue Prince-Arthur E, Montréal, H2X 1B7
Les Deux Gamins is a charming bistro located in the heart of the Plateau-Mont-Royal, where the authenticity of French cuisine is paired with a Montreal twist. The menu features dishes such as foie gras au torchon, duck confit, osso bucco, and escargots, all prepared with care. The lively terrace in summer and the wood-burning fireplace in winter provide welcoming settings year-round. With its tableside flambés and carvings, this restaurant offers a prized experience for those seeking a convivial meal. The varied weekly menu, influenced by Montreal's diversity, makes each visit unique.
260 Rue Saint-Jean, Vieux Longueuil, J4H 2X5
At Lou Nissart, discover the traditions of Nice in the heart of Vieux-Longueuil on Montreal's South Shore. Chef-owner Dominique Salvatici excels in presenting delicate dishes such as seared goat cheese, veal sweetbreads, and bavette with pepper and cognac sauce. Don't miss the celery root tarte tatin and Provençal-style veal liver. Desserts, including maple syrup crème brûlée or flambéed with Grand Marnier, perfectly complete your meal. The ambiance evokes the charm of southern France with attentive service and a carefully curated wine list, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience.
3927 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2W 2M4
L'Express, located on Saint-Denis Street in the Plateau-Mont-Royal, has embodied the authenticity of French bistros since 1980. This restaurant is known for its classic Parisian brasserie menu, offering dishes like bone marrow with fleur de sel, veal kidneys in mustard sauce, croque-monsieur, and coffee crème brûlée. With an impressive wine cellar boasting 11,000 bottles, each meal becomes a memorable experience. Open until 2 a.m., L'Express is the perfect spot to savor French bistronomy at any time. The carefully orchestrated cuisine attracts gourmets in search of tradition. With its Parisian ambiance and extensive wine selection, L'Express remains a must-visit address in Montreal.
652 Rue de la Place-Publique, Laval, H7X 1G1
Located in Sainte-Dorothée, Le Mitoyen has been offering an experience where French tradition meets inventiveness since 1976. Signature dishes like seared foie gras, roasted veal sweetbreads, and roasted half-quail are central to this restaurant's intimate and elegant atmosphere. Chef Richard Bastien, with 45 years of experience, creates seasonal menus, offering cuisine that is both sincere and inspired. Le Mitoyen charms with its timeless setting and ability to reinvent the classics. The warm ambiance of the small dining rooms, combined with the professionalism of the staff, makes each visit memorable. The à la carte menu, table d'hôte, and tasting menu allow guests to discover a wide range of exquisite flavors.
1030 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2V 2K8
Since 1972, Chez Lévêque has been synonymous with French tradition in Montreal. This Outremont restaurant offers a menu rich in classics, such as black pudding, homemade terrine, coq au vin, fish soup, renowned offal, and seafood platters. The warm setting and renowned terrace make it a perfect spot for any occasion, from brunch to late-night dinner. The extensive wine selection, with a focus on private imports and natural wines, enhances this authentic bistronomy experience. Recipient of the Diner's Choice Award in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023, as well as the prestigious Chef de File award from the Quebec Restaurant Association in 2016, Chez Lévêque continues to stand out for its excellence.
1831 Rue Gilford, Montréal, H2H 1G6
Le Pégase, located on the Plateau-Mont-Royal, invites food lovers to discover its menu of French specialties in a romantic atmosphere. Among the must-tries, the beef bavette and braised rabbit are perfectly cooked, while the celery root tarte tatin offers an innovative touch. Diners are welcome to bring their wine to complement the meal. With its two varied table d'hôte options, this restaurant combines tradition with accessibility, offering reasonable prices for a relaxed gastronomic experience. Open since 1986, this restaurant is a favorite for those who appreciate homemade specialties in an unpretentious setting.
Photo Credit: sawawho
1045 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2V 2L1
Leméac Café Bistrot, located at the corner of Laurier and Durocher in Outremont, perfectly embodies the timeless charm of French brasseries. Since its opening in 2001, this restaurant has made a name for itself with a rich menu that includes classics such as foie gras au torchon, Leméac-style moules and fries, house-smoked salmon, basil escargot stew, house-made cider boudin, and salmon pot-au-feu. The heated terrace, accessible year-round, provides an elegant setting to enjoy these dishes. With over 225 wines on the list, every meal becomes a true celebration. Don't miss their popular weekend brunches.
1454 Rue Peel, Montréal, H3A 1S8
Founded in 1977 in downtown Montreal, Chez Alexandre et Fils offers an immersion in the French tradition with its emblematic dishes such as Toulouse cassoulet, black pudding, and duck confit. This bistro brasserie is known for its continuous service, from noon to midnight, and for its Cigar Lounge where guests can relax with a glass of champagne. The diversity of atmospheres in each room allows everyone to find their ideal spot for an authentically French moment of relaxation.
4005 Rue Ontario E, Montréal, H1W 1T1
In the heart of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, L'État-Major is a restaurant where French bistronomy truly shines. The dishes, ranging from rabbit in foie gras cream to beef striploin, are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, reflecting an inventive cuisine. Diners can bring their preferred wine to accompany specialties such as beef striploin and black pudding. The warm ambiance and attentive service make each meal a memorable experience, whether for a tête-à-tête or a celebration with friends.
5002 Chemin de la Cote-des-Neiges, Montréal, H3V 1G6
Since 1952, Duc de Lorraine in Côte-des-Neiges has been known for its fine pastries and traditional French dishes. Whether enjoying a quiche lorraine, croque-madame, or Benedictine eggs at brunch, this venue combines expertise and authenticity. The pastry shop is a must-visit, with creations like mille-feuille and croquembouche. With a terrace offering a superb view of Saint Joseph's Oratory, it's a popular spot for a meal or a gourmet break.
2930 Avenue Pierre-Péladeau, Laval, H7T 3B3
Le Tire-Bouchon, at Centropolis in Laval, pays homage to the cuisine of Parisian bistros. This restaurant offers French classics such as duck confit, moules marinières, Toulouse cassoulet, and black pudding with Calvados. The ambiance, inspired by the Champs-Élysées, provides a perfect setting for a convivial meal. Among the favorite dishes, foie gras au torchon with fig chutney and warm goat cheese salad stand out. Each meal is elevated by a carefully selected wine list and ends deliciously with a dessert such as white chocolate crème brûlée.
443 Rue St-François-Xavier, Montréal, H2Y 2T1
Located in the Hôtel Bonaparte, this Old-Montreal restaurant is a benchmark for authentic French cuisine. Since 1984, Le Bonaparte has been delighting guests with dishes such as duck confit, mushroom ravioli with sage, duck leg confit with sweet garlic jus, crème brûlée, and filet de boeuf Rossini, all in an elegant and romantic atmosphere. The soufflé, both spectacular and delicious, is often the highlight of the evening. The seven-course tasting menu lets you savor the full richness of the menu. The small alcoves offer the perfect privacy for a meal for two, while the main dining room welcomes guests in a historical setting. Each dish is enhanced by a selection of carefully chosen wines, for a memorable evening.
5064 Avenue Papineau, Montréal, H2H 1V8
Plein Sud, located on the Plateau-Mont-Royal, captures the essence of Southern French cuisine, with a particular focus on Corsican and Provençal flavors. For over 16 years, it has offered specialties such as Corsican-style veal, Niçoise salad, and mushroom ravioli with sage. The private import wines perfectly complement the sharing boards, made up of Corsican and Niçoise delights. With a menu that evolves with the seasons, Plein Sud continues to captivate lovers of French bistronomy.
1230 Boulevard de Maisonneuve O, Montréal, H3G 1M2
Le Pois Penché combines the charm of a French brasserie with a contemporary touch right in the center of town. Seafood lovers will appreciate the oyster bar and generous platters, while meat lovers will delight in the tartares and duck confit. The selection of wines, mainly organic and natural, is carefully chosen to accompany these dishes. The terrace, ideal for weekend brunches, offers a pleasant view of the surrounding bustle, while the private room, equipped for business, allows events to be organized in an elegant, hushed setting.
5237 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2J 2M1
On the Plateau-Mont-Royal, Bleu Raisin has been combining French tradition with Quebec flavors since 2004. This "bring your own vi" restaurant delights with dishes such as duck foie gras marinated in Quebec spirits, escargots with garlic butter, duck breast, veal kidney, and crème brûlée with a twist. On a slate, the menu evolves with the seasons to offer a fresh, creative experience. On Wednesdays, the five-course blind menu allows diners to be surprised by the inspirations of chef Frédérick Mey.
Browse our list of French restaurants in Montreal for an authentic experience.
