Montreal offers no shortage of seafood spots, yet certain addresses truly stand out. In these restaurants, dining transforms into an unforgettable escape, where seafood is not just fresh but elevated by the chefs' daring creativity and refined expertise. Picture oysters adorned with unexpected flavours, dishes that blend technique and originality, and timeless classics reimagined with a surprising twist.
From Old Montreal to Mile End, these curated spots present seafood in a way that turns each dish into a masterpiece.
Some combine Japanese and French influences, crafting plates that are true works of art, where textures and flavours play in perfect harmony. Others reinvent well-loved recipes with meticulously chosen ingredients and exquisite presentation. To complete the experience, a selection of rare wines or a house-crafted cocktail is often at hand.
In this guide, explore a selection of spots where every meal celebrates the sea in all its forms.
Whether you're a fan of bold cuisine or simply seeking an elegant yet relaxed setting, get ready to discover places that take you on a journey, bite by bite, where each dish tells its own story.
Multiple locations
For a Louisiana-inspired experience, MR CAJUN offers a wide variety of seafood dishes across its locations in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Monkland Village, and Mercier. Signature options like the "Ocean Petit" combine shrimp, crab legs, and lobster, served with your choice of sauce and generous sides. In a relaxed setting, you can enjoy these flavorful meals, either on-site or for takeout. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, the menu caters to all tastes. The place can get crowded on weekends, but the freshness and quality of the dishes make it worth the wait. The lively atmosphere, especially in the evening, draws seafood lovers eager to experience true Cajun flavours.
Read also:
The Best Oyster Specials in Montreal
200 Rue Jean-Talon E, Montréal, H2R 1S7
Located in Jean-Talon Market, Palomar stands out in Montreal with its specialty in aged fish and unique seafood charcuterie. The tapas-style menu allows guests to sample a variety of dishes, from scallops with strawberry purée to Nova Scotia tuna presented in a trio. Bold creations, like fish prepared "bacon-style," delight the taste buds, while carefully selected wines and craft beers elevate each bite. Enjoy a relaxed summer moment on the terrace with a fine glass in hand.
1455 Rue Peel, Montréal, H3A 1T5
Located in downtown Montreal, Sea-Me stands out with its contemporary approach to Italian coastal cuisine, offering refined dishes like Sexypec oysters and scallops with a delicate vanilla sauce. Hidden in the basement, the elegant Beluga Lounge, a refined speakeasy, invites guests to extend their evening with exclusive cocktails. Spread over two floors, Sea-Me combines a sophisticated ambiance with a creative menu, driven by a passionate team eager to introduce unique marine flavours. It's a place where sophistication and Italian essence meet in an unforgettable experience.
4007 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2W 2M4
Joséphine, located on St-Denis Street, is a gem on the Plateau Mont-Royal, offering a menu inspired by the seasons and the travels of Chef Vincent Desaulniers. The oyster bar and impressive seafood towers, created with the day's fresh arrivals, draw in connoisseurs. Specials like unlimited mussels, oysters, and tartare add to the restaurant's appeal. Privately imported wines and sparkling options pair seamlessly with the creative dishes, enhancing the freshness of Quebec ingredients. This bistro is cherished for its inviting atmosphere and impeccable service, consistently matching the quality of its cuisine.
275 Rue Notre-Dame O, Montréal, H2Y 1T8
Since 1934, Chez Delmo, a longstanding institution in Old Montreal, has celebrated the finest traditions of the sea with meticulously prepared dishes. The varied menu features classics like Dover sole meunière, served with pilaf rice, and Creole-style crab paired with Caribbean mango rice and spicy Andalouse sauce. Other favourites include beer-battered fresh cod fish'n chips, grilled scallops with cauliflower purée, and a lobster roll seasoned with cilantro and celery. The elegant dining room, complete with original vintage benches and the iconic sign, retains the charm of past decades. Guests appreciate the attentive service and knowledgeable recommendations, making each meal memorable.
219 Avenue Mont Royal O, Montréal, H2T 2T2
Le Filet, a renowned spot on Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal, masterfully blends flavours of the sea with Japanese and French influences. Led by chefs Claude Pelletier and Yasu Okazaki, the restaurant delights with standout dishes such as miso-gratin oysters and sea bream ceviche. Grilled octopus with Balinese sambal and squid ink linguine is also a hit with seafood lovers, all served in a thoughtfully designed, theatrical atmosphere. The attentive service and an expertly curated wine list of over 350 selections enhance the experience, making each visit refined and memorable. With its seasonal terrace and chic ambiance, Le Filet is a perfect setting for an elegant dining experience.
1446 Rue Peel, Montréal, H3A 1S8
Since its opening in 1996, Ferreira Café has become a cornerstone of Montreal's Portuguese dining scene. Led by Chef Joao Hipólito, the menu is rich with flavours, featuring specialties like wild carabineiros, the seafood platter, and bouillabaisse. The elegant and refined setting offers an ideal space to enjoy attentive service and an impressive selection of Portuguese wines and ports. The team's passion for quality and tradition shines through in every dish, much to the delight of loyal patrons.
94 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, H2Y 1G6
With a creative, lobster-centered menu, Pincette-r à Homard offers a variety of specialties, including the famous lobster poutine, lobster mac and cheese, lobster pasta, and the classic whole lobster. Inspired by East Coast lobster shacks, the decor creates a warm, intimate atmosphere right in the heart of Old Montreal. Perfect for enjoying a seafood platter or a Bloody Pincette, this spot is ideal for lunch or dinner. In summer, the terrace is a true highlight, offering a stunning view of the historic district.
5357 Avenue du Parc, Montréal, H2V 4G9
Founded in 1979 by Costas Spiliadis, Estiatorio Milos has become a luxury Greek institution, located in Montreal's Mile-End on Avenue du Parc. This renowned restaurant stands out for its unmatched quality and unique concept, where guests select fresh seafood directly from the counter. Iconic dishes like the Milos Special and grilled royal shrimp showcase the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients. With a carefully curated list of Greek wines, the elegant ambiance recalls Mediterranean tavernas. Milos has expanded internationally with locations in Dubai, Athens, Las Vegas, Singapore, and New York, solidifying its status as a global reference in Greek cuisine.
4720 Rue Marquette, Montréal, H2J 3Y6
Le Violon, located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal, is led by chefs Mitch Laughren and Danny Smiles, who elevate seasonal ingredients and Quebec's finest seafood-inspired dishes. The warm, intimate atmosphere attracts those seeking an authentic dining experience. With a refined yet accessible wine list and creative cocktails, the experience is complete. Must-try items include tender beef cheeks, perfectly seared sea bass, and a delightful cheese platter. Le Violon celebrates seasonal flavours with elegance, making it an ideal spot for evenings with friends or intimate dining experiences.
114 Avenue Dresden, Montréal, H3P 2B6
At La Sirène de la Mer, Mediterranean warmth is everywhere. Located in Ville Mont-Royal, this family-friendly restaurant offers specialties like seafood linguine, fried sole fillets, and grilled octopus. The attentive staff and exotic ambiance make it an ideal spot for gatherings. The in-house fish market allows visitors to take home treasures from the sea, adding to the unique experience that La Sirène de la Mer provides.
Multiple locations
The Lucille's restaurants, located across various neighbourhoods in Montreal, are renowned for their diverse offerings of seafood and grilled dishes. Their $1 oysters are a popular attraction for seafood lovers. The menu also features favourites like fish and chips, lobster rolls, and dry-aged steaks. A warm ambiance and attentive service make for a memorable dining experience. Additionally, some locations offer terraces for outdoor dining enjoyment. Whether you're after a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, Lucille's is a top choice for fans of fresh seafood and expertly grilled meats.
351 Place Royale, Montréal, H2Y 2V2
SeaSalt, located in Old Montreal, offers a unique seafood experience, with a menu inspired by Mediterranean and South American flavours. Must-tries include salmon tartare, seafood guédille, sea bass and maracuya ceviche for an exotic touch. The raw bar offers a varied selection of oysters and shrimp cocktails. Thursdays with $1 oysters and the spacious summer terrace add to its charm, offering picturesque views of the historic district for al fresco dining.
1726 Rue Notre Dame O, Montréal, H3J 1M3
As part of the renowned Groupe Grinder, Makro is a must-visit in Griffintown for those seeking quality seafood and bold dishes. The seasonal menu features delights such as roasted scallops, lobster spaghetti, and lobster al pastor. A private-import wine list enhances each flavour, adding a refined touch to the experience. The convenient valet service and modern decor elevate the charm of this spot, ideal for group outings or intimate evenings, providing a chic and festive setting to enjoy original dishes.
3615 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2X 1V5
For over 30 years, Maestro S.V.P. has been a haven for seafood lovers in Montreal, offering a warm welcome and vibrant atmosphere that captivates from the moment you step in. Led by owner Ilene Polansky, this iconic restaurant serves generous platters of snow crab, shrimp, and grilled calamari, along with a vast selection of oysters from all over. Loyal patrons especially appreciate the flambéed oysters and the famous lobster mac & cheese, both must-try dishes that perfectly merge classic and inventive flavours. Ideal for large groups or more intimate meals, Maestro S.V.P. delivers an experience where each dish celebrates the sea and quality ingredients, in an atmosphere that never disappoints.
500 Rue Rachel E, Montréal, H2J 2H2
A true trendy spot in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Name's On The Way draws you in with its inventive cuisine and electric vibe. The chef Henri-Pierre Branchaud crafts surprising dishes, from stuffed calamari to spaghetti alle vongole, all complemented by original cocktails. With a vibrant atmosphere and DJ sets on select nights, this spot is perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or a night out. The place's unique, laid-back style, along with house cocktails and a crescendoing ambiance, turns every meal into an unforgettable, spontaneous celebration.
Montreal is brimming with exceptional spots where seafood takes center stage, providing a unique experience for fans of marine flavours. Explore our dedicated section for even more restaurants serving seafood in Montreal.
