La Banquise is a Montreal staple known for an astonishing variety of poutines, including plenty of vegetarian options with veggie gravy, and generous portions that satisfy big appetites. The classics shine with crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy, while creative toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and smoked meat offer memorable twists. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with fast, efficient service that keeps things moving even when the place is crowded. Long lines are part of the experience, yet the quality and range of choices make it worth the wait. Takeout and late hours make it a reliable go-to for a satisfying meal any time, and the consistency keeps bringing locals and visitors back. In short, La Banquise delivers a quintessential, comforting poutine experience with heart, variety, and a true Montreal vibe.View restaurant profile
Fairmount Bagel Bakery is widely celebrated for its authentic Montreal style bagels, chewy and freshly baked in wood-fired ovens, with a range that includes sesame, everything, onion, garlic, pumpernickel, bozo, sun dried tomato, cranberry, and more; reviewers describe them as among the best in Montreal and often in the world, worth the wait in long lines that move steadily; the experience is typically take-out only, with no indoor seating and a cash or Canadian debit card payment policy, plus occasional notes about rising prices and smaller sizes; the bagels pair well with a variety of cream cheeses and toppings, and the smell of the bakery and watching bagels being prepared adds to the charm; several mentions highlight the friendly staff and the sense of tradition, while a few reviews flag inconsistent service or crowding at peak times; overall the place is regarded as a must try for Montreal bagel lovers and a signature stop for visitors seeking an iconic bite.View restaurant profile
Overall, reviews describe Kettlemans Bagel as delivering fresh, flavorful bagels with a wide range of fillings and a generally welcoming, attentive service. The staff are frequently praised for friendliness and helpfulness, and the shop is noted as clean and casual, with a bakery-like feel from watching the bagels being made. At the same time, experiences vary, with some guests experiencing slow service, order mix-ups, or bagels that were dry or not as fresh on certain visits, leading to mixed impressions of consistency. Many emphasize standout items such as bagel sandwiches and flavorful fillings, and several diners consider the bagels among the better options in the area, while a few describe them as not quite living up to other Montreal bagel experiences. The menu's breadth includes vegan and other specialty options, reflecting a willingness to accommodate different tastes, though there was some confusion about vegan choices on a visit. Overall, it is seen as a solid bagel destination with strong service that can be exceptional but with occasional inconsistencies in taste and speed.View restaurant profile
