While Montreal is renowned for its arts scene and festivals, it's also a prime destination for a three-day foodie itinerary, rich in flavors and discoveries. This guide offers a gourmet itinerary that will take you from breakfast to dinner, through the city's historic and modern neighborhoods.
Start your exploration in the lively neighborhoods of Mile End, Plateau Mont-Royal and Little Italy. This first day will immerse you in a variety of atmospheres, from trendy cafés to legendary bagels and Italian bistros. Discover local specialties at charming addresses that capture the city's creative spirit.
Day 2 takes you to Old Montreal, Downtown and the International District. From the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal to the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica, each stop immerses you in Montreal's history and heritage. Between lunch and dinner, enjoy contemporary Quebec cuisine with international touches.
To round off this gourmet escapade, head to the Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy neighborhoods. With their trendy restaurants and microbreweries, these neighborhoods are perfect for comfort food with a modern twist. From fine-dining options to affordable dishes with exotic accents, there's plenty to satisfy gourmands in search of new discoveries.
This three-day foodie guide to Montreal invites you to explore a varied palette of flavors and atmospheres, turning each stop into an immersion in local culture.
Day 1
Start the Day in the Mile-End
The Mile-End is a Montreal neighborhood that reveals the city's diversity at a glance: historic buildings, artisanal shops, and enticing eateries blend together in perfect harmony.
Home to a vibrant Jewish community, the Mile-End is also the birthplace of the Montreal bagel, with the famous Saint-Viateur and Fairmount bagel shops upholding a beloved tradition enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
For a brunch with French-Québec flair, Caribou Gourmand, founded by French expatriates, offers dishes inspired by both cultures.
And for those with a sweet tooth, Bernie Beigne, open from 10 a.m., is celebrated for its doughnuts, among the city's most cherished.
Two Itinerary Options for Your Lunch Break
For your lunch break, let yourself be guided by one of these two enticing routes.
First, head towards Mount Royal Park, perfect for a stroll among century-old trees with a stunning view of the city and the iconic Saint Joseph's Oratory in the background.
Photo Credits: J-F Savaria
Nearby, Schwartz's Deli offers its legendary smoked meat, while Beauty's, a retro diner founded in 1942, is renowned for its generous brunches and bagels.
For a vegan option, Ohana serves inventive vegan sushi, ideal for a meal that is both fresh and flavorful.
Alternatively, make your way to Lafontaine Park, located in the heart of the Plateau-Mont-Royal. Beloved by families and strollers, this park provides a peaceful setting with walking paths and a large pond.
Close by, La Banquise is a go-to spot for poutine lovers, offering a wide range of toppings, while Ma Poule Mouillée, with its Portuguese grilled dishes, competes for the title of best local eatery.
For an authentic taste of Quebec cuisine, La Binerie Mont-Royal serves traditional dishes like homemade pea soup, meatball stew, tourtière, and "pouding chômeur."
Lastly, Robin des Bois, known for its social engagement and vegetarian options, offers a dining experience that also benefits the community.
Enjoy a Drink on Plateau Mont-Royal
The Plateau Mont-Royal offers a variety of aperitif experiences to kick off the evening in style.
RAVITO Café-Buvette, a relaxed and versatile spot, is perfect for sipping a coffee during the day or enjoying a glass of wine in the evening, either indoors or on the terrace. Suitable for any hour, this space invites guests to unwind in a warm ambiance.
Rouge Gorge, a wine bar established in 2015, attracts its refined setting and a carefully curated wine list, mainly featuring French selections. The dedicated team ensures high-quality wines and cocktails, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
Finally, for a unique twist, Mlle Rosa blends Indian inspiration with modern flair in its cocktails and small plates, adding a bold note to the aperitif experience. This chic bar also offers wonderful vegetarian and even vegan options, perfect for those who enjoy creative flavors. With a daily happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., it's the ideal place to sample subtle and innovative flavors in an elegant setting.
Dine in Little Italy
A historic neighborhood in Montreal, Little Italy seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a unique balance of authenticity and creativity. Its streets are lined with trattorias, cafes, and Italian boutiques, while the nearby Jean-Talon Market draws food lovers and chefs in search of the finest fresh ingredients. In this lively setting, several restaurants offer refined meals and distinctive atmospheres for an unforgettable dinner.
At L'Osso, a restaurant renowned for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, you'll find flavorful meats, fresh fish, and homemade pasta. Its signature dish, Osso Bucco, is prepared with care and has become a local favorite.
Ratafia, with its Art Deco decor and talented team of pastry chefs, presents a carefully curated selection of sweet and savory dishes. The extensive wine and cocktail list, along with its six-course tasting menu for two, makes this restaurant a one-of-a-kind experience in the neighborhood.
Umami Ramen & Izakaya stands out as Montreal's first vegan ramen restaurant. Serving reimagined Japanese classics, from ramen to gyozas, this restaurant highlights authentic flavors without any animal products and offers a selection of beers and sake for a complete experience.
Finally, for a more intimate experience, Restaurant Parapluie, led by chef Robin Filteau Boucher and sommelier Karelle Voyer, provides an elegant ambiance and a seasonal menu that showcases market-fresh ingredients. Ranked among Canada's best, Parapluie is as rare as it is memorable.
Day 2
Breakfast in Old Montreal
Old Montreal is a neighborhood where the past and the present coexist in perfect harmony. With art galleries, boutiques, and iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica, this historic area draws both strollers and food enthusiasts alike. Wander through its unique setting, then stop for a breakfast that combines local and international flavors.
Crew Collective Café offers a one-of-a-kind experience in a space rich in architectural heritage. Housed in a former Royal Bank of Canada building, this elegant café presents a varied menu to suit every taste, from meat lovers to vegetarians and vegans. With its delicious dishes and modern coworking ambiance, it's the ideal spot to enjoy coffee in an extraordinary setting.
At Olive & Gourmando, an Old Montreal institution since 1998, breakfast is elevated to a special experience. Enjoy staples like the poached egg panini or the famous Cuban sandwich with roasted pork. From homemade pastries to hearty sandwiches, each dish reflects the warmth and authenticity created by founders Dyan Solomon and Éric Girard.
Le Passé Composé is another favorite destination for a French-inspired brunch. Led by Chef Arnaud Glay, the menu showcases seasonal ingredients in beautifully crafted dishes that blend French tradition with contemporary flair. This bistro is a must-visit for those seeking an inventive brunch experience.
Lunch and Shopping Downtown
Downtown Montreal is the perfect place to combine lunch and shopping, especially along Sainte-Catherine Street with its boutiques and shopping centers like the Eaton Centre. This vibrant area features modern food courts that offer a diverse range of flavors and atmospheres.
Time Out Market Montreal brings the essence of Montreal's dining scene under one roof. Its 16 stalls showcase dishes crafted by renowned local chefs, including Chanthy Yen, who reimagines Cambodian classics, and Jean-Sébastien Giguère with his creative take on local cuisine. From the Spanish tapas of Haissam Souki Tamayo to Bossa's Italian sandwiches, this 40,000-square-foot space offers a varied and refined experience, where each dish is carefully prepared to satisfy any foodie.
Le Central is an eclectic space that brings together 16 establishments featuring both emerging talents and established restaurateurs. Tapas, ramen, poké, and desserts can be enjoyed in a lively setting, accompanied by a selection of craft beers and natural wines, all inspired by street food vibes.
At Cathcart, set beneath a stunning glass pavilion at Place Ville Marie, lunch takes on a new dimension. With an array of global cuisines, from Korean to Italian to Lebanese, this light-filled oasis with a biergarten and an indoor garden offers the perfect setting for a unique lunch or a relaxed 5 à 7.
Dining Downtown
Downtown Montreal and the international district offer a variety of restaurants perfect for a memorable evening. Amid modern towers and historic buildings, each establishment offers a unique atmosphere and carefully crafted dishes.
H3 Restaurant, nestled in the Humaniti tower, is led by Chef Jean-Sébastien Giguère, who highlights local ingredients in a contemporary setting. An impressive wine cellar and inventive cocktails add a distinctive touch to this place where art and cuisine meet.
Europea, under Chef Jérôme Ferrer's guidance, is a Montreal fine dining icon. This prestigious restaurant celebrates Quebec products with creativity and sophistication, offering an unmissable culinary experience.
Tiradito breaks conventions with its central bar, where chefs showcase their Nikkei creations in real-time. Colorful ceviches, anticuchos, and bold cocktails make Tiradito a destination where Peruvian and Japanese influences blend in an industrial-chic setting.
Portus 360, perched atop the EVO building, offers breathtaking panoramic views. Chef Helena Loureiro serves Portuguese specialties such as crispy calamari and tender lamb, all in a rotating dining room that provides a complete view of Montreal.
Moishes Steakhouse, a Montreal institution since 1938, upholds its legacy in the international district with exceptional meats and fresh seafood. From classics like prime rib to new additions, like the USDA PRIME burger, Moishes remains a timeless steakhouse icon.
Festive Evening Downtown
Downtown Montreal's nightlife is vibrant, with a multitude of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a dinner show or a place to socialize over drinks, our selection promises a memorable evening. For more festive evening ideas, check out our article on the best dinner shows.
Le Balcon, located within the transformed St. James Church cabaret, offers a unique experience with jazz, soul, gospel, and a three-course meal. With options like gospel brunches and outdoor events, Le Balcon invites you to enjoy an unforgettable fusion of flavors and rhythms.
Yoko Luna transports you into a reinvented Neo-Tokyo, a mesmerizing club-restaurant divided into carefully crafted spaces. Featuring Nikkei cuisine that blends Japanese and Peruvian flavors, this venue offers vibrant cocktails and immersive performances, making it a truly memorable night out.
McLean's, a classic Irish pub, combines a wide selection of imported beers with a warm atmosphere. With screens for sporting events, as well as billiard tables and dart boards, McLean's is the perfect spot for a casual evening with friends.
Day 3
Start Your Day in Saint-Henri/Little Burgundy
The neighborhoods of Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy are vibrant areas of Montreal known for their colorful houses, renovated industrial spaces, and an ever-evolving brunch scene. Here, you'll find diverse and unique spots to kick off the day.
Foiegwa, with its "French Diner" vibe, attracts brunch lovers with tempting options like the indulgent cheeseburger, truffle pasta, and their signature foie gras. It's an ideal spot for those who appreciate a brunch packed with flavor and character.
Arthur's, inspired by Jewish culinary traditions, is the perfect place to enjoy dishes like gravlax and pancakes. Its popularity draws crowds of food enthusiasts, but the experience is well worth the wait.
L'Avenue offers a festive brunch with generous portions. With options like pecan French toast and duck Benedict, this restaurant is a favorite for brunch lovers looking for both classic and inventive dishes.
Barley's brings a modern twist to brunch with Lebanese-inspired options. Expect sweet potato waffles, matcha pancakes, and a wide variety of vegan and gluten-free choices, ideal for a light and tasty meal.
Lunch Around Atwater Market and Lachine Canal
Atwater Market and Lachine Canal provide the perfect setting for a lunch break, with the colorful stalls of the market and the peaceful canal drawing in food lovers and strollers alike.
Atwater Market: This historic market is a must-visit for an impromptu meal. From cheesemongers to butchers and artisan bakeries, each stall overflows with fresh, local products. Visitors can create a takeaway meal to enjoy along the canal's scenic banks.
Lulu Épicerie: Located near the market, this fine grocery offers carefully prepared homemade dishes. From delicious sandwiches to fresh salads, Lulu Épicerie emphasizes quality ingredients. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among regulars.
Greenspot: A Saint-Henri institution for decades, Greenspot is a classic American-style diner that has retained its 1950s vintage charm. The menu features Quebec staples like burgers, poutines, and hot dogs, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back lunch.
McKiernan: Created through a collaboration between Joe Beef, Liverpool House, and Vin Papillon, McKiernan is a café-sandwich shop that combines rustic and modern elements. This spacious, light-filled venue in an industrial building along the canal is perfect for a comforting meal. The varied menu includes generous sandwiches, brunch dishes, and even takeout options, making it ideal for lunch with friends or family.
Happy Hour in Saint-Henri and Little Burgundy
The Saint-Henri and Petite Bourgogne neighborhoods are filled with bars and breweries offering unique atmospheres for a drink, whether you're a fan of craft beer or creative cocktails.
Messorem: This brewery is a go-to for local beer lovers. With a laid-back vibe, Messorem serves a range of in-house creations that stand out for their originality. From IPAs to stouts and lagers, each brew is crafted with passion, offering distinctive flavors.
Atwater Cocktail Club: Tucked away behind a restaurant, the Atwater Cocktail Club is a chic and intimate cocktail bar. In this elegant setting, experienced mixologists craft a varied cocktail menu that surprises and delights. It's ideal for a sophisticated evening for those who appreciate well-executed drinks.
Drinkerie Ste-Cunégonde: Located in Petite Bourgogne, this retro Montreal-style tavern charms with its indie-rock and electronic vibe. It offers a great selection of scotch, wine, and beer-including the signature Ste-Cunégonde-along with local ingredients from Atwater Market.
Siboire Notre-Dame: This popular Saint-Henri microbrewery features a large selection of house-made beers and pub-inspired dishes. With its spacious interior and relaxed vibe, Siboire Notre-Dame is the perfect choice for beer enthusiasts looking to share a meal in a welcoming setting.
Dinner in the Saint-Henri/Little Burgundy Neighborhood
For dinner in Saint-Henri and Petite Bourgogne, a few standout spots offer unique styles and flavors, perfect for wrapping up the day.
Joe Beef: A Montreal institution, Joe Beef is renowned for its generous and inventive dishes, often highlighting local ingredients and reimagined recipes. With its relaxed atmosphere, it's the go-to spot for those who enjoy an authentic experience and hearty meals.
BarBara: This cozy Italian bistro focuses on seasonal, market-inspired cuisine. With its homemade pasta and fresh meat and fish dishes, BarBara brings a refreshing touch and originality, ideal for a delicious dinner.
Satay Brothers: In a lively setting, Satay Brothers serves up Asian-inspired cuisine bursting with exotic flavors. The menu includes satays, bao buns, and other specialties, perfect for those seeking an Asian-inspired experience in an upbeat environment.
Foxy Restaurant: Known for its wood-fired cooking, Foxy offers simple, flavorful dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Its intimate space and warm decor make it a great spot for a meal with friends or a cozy dinner date.
These three days exploring Montreal's top spots have provided a true taste of the city's eclectic charm.
To continue this adventure, treat yourself to prestigious restaurants where every dish feels like a work of art.
Looking for an even more refined atmosphere? Montreal's hotel restaurants combine elegance with inspired cuisine, making them an ideal choice when selecting your accommodations.
Finally, for those who enjoy spectacular views, several locations offer breathtaking panoramas of the city-the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable stay.
