10 Must Visit Restaurants in Montreal

July 18, 2021

Are you heading out for a bite to eat in Montreal?

You might think Canada’s most bilingual city primarily features French cuisine. After all, the majority of the population is fluent in the language, and besides Paris, it’s the largest French-speaking place in the world.

While French cuisine is divine, you’re also spoilt for choice when it comes to the other delicacies that Montreal has to offer. From contemporary Japanese-style tapas to hearty Italian gastronomical experiences, there are many unique dining experiences that you can only find in this part of Canada.

So it’s not a question of where you should head out to for a meal in Montreal. You’re better off asking yourself where you should go first from this list below.

1. Bar George

Bar George

You’re welcome to visit Bar George at any time of day. The heritage mansion that Sir George Stephen formerly owned opens its doors seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Inside you’ll get served some modern takes on classic cuisines from the United Kingdom. The chefs even put a Quebec spin on it. If you’re not hungry, you can always pull up a seat at the bar, grab a pint, and enjoy a chat with the friendly staff.

2. Brasserie 701

Brasserie 701

If you want to feel like you’re dining out in Paris’ heyday, then Brasserie 701 can deliver with its chic décor and stunning ambiance. While the venue's vibe might make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, the menu is full of classic brasserie meals with a modern twist.

From breakfast to supper, there are tasty dishes you must try, such as the salmon tartar, seared duck breast with Quebec pattypan, or the chicken and waffles. Make sure to leave room for dessert too. The floating island with maple syrup is an experience you need to have before you leave Montreal.

3. Copper Branch

Copper Branch

You can find the Copper Branch sprawled out across the city of Montreal. It’s a great place to grab your morning cup of coffee, a snack while you’re on the go, or a place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

There’s no need to set your alarm to make it in time for breakfast. They feature an all-day menu featuring a delectable avocado toast and a mouth-watering southwest scramble. You can even get a vegan option that is just as delicious.

4. Yokato Yokabai

If you’ve never tasted fresh homemade noodles, then make sure to add this restaurant to your travel itinerary. Yokato Yokabai is not only one of Montreal's best noodle spots, but it’s one of the top places to enjoy a meal in the city.

There’s nothing like a hot bowl of ramen on a cold winter’s day in Montreal. You also can’t go wrong with their Takoyaki, Chachy Don, and the fried burock fries with spicy mayo. All of the meals are made from scratch and feature organic ingredients. The only problem is that it’s hard to go back to your regular ramen place after dining out here. Check them out on Instagram here.

5. Sumac

Sumac

When you’re in the mood for some Lebanese cuisine, you’ll want to stop by Sumac. The hummus and baba are out of this world and served with some of the best pita bread that you’ll ever put in your mouth.

You could also opt to get a grilled pita with falafel, chicken shawarma, or beef kefta filling or get the same meal served on a plate. Just make sure you don’t forget to order a Nutella and halvah brownie as well. It’s the perfect way to finish off your meal at Sumac.

6. Beatrice

Beatrice

You might think you’ve stepped into a national park when you walk inside Beatrice. But instead, it’s an urban oasis that helps you escape the noise of the city so that you can focus all of your senses on its spectacular Italian cuisine.

Locals come to Beatrice for the one-of-a-kind gastronomical experience. Every meal is elegantly plated and could feature in the National Art Museum. Pair your meal with a glass of fine wine from their extensive collection and bask in the ambiance as long as you can.

7. Carlos & Pepe’s

Carlos & Pepe’s

The brilliant minds behind Carlos & Pepe’s have been supplying Montreal with the best Mexican meals since 1984. It features tasty tacos, fabulous fajitas, as well as a wide selection of cocktails and beers to enjoy with your spicy dish.

In fact, the cocktail menu is almost as extensive as the food menu. Starring icy margaritas, delicious daiquiris, and mojitos by the mug, you’ll find something to quench your thirst while dining here.

8. Kinoya Izakaya & Kushi Bar

Kinoya Izakaya & Kushi Bar

If you love tapas, then you’ll adore this place. Instead of sharing Spanish dishes, you’ll be dining some of the freshest Japanese delicacies you’ve ever tasted. You’ll be able to choose your plates from a menu of appetizers, grilled dishes, fried dishes, sashimi, and even desserts.

Don’t want to share your food? No problem. You can also find a selection of rice, noodle, sushi, and ramen dishes that you can keep to yourself.

9. Bacaro Pizzeria

Bacaro Pizzeria

A hearty Italian meal can sometimes be hard to find, but not in Montreal. Bacaro Pizzeria has places all over the city, and they all feature delicious pasta as well as a great slice of pizza when you need it most.

They also boast they have the best Nutella deserts in Montreal. There’s only one way to find out, and that’s by making sure you stop by to sample as many as you can.

10. Auberge du Vieux-Port

Auberge du Vieux-Port

On the outside, it might look like an old warehouse, and that’s because it was. But today, the Auberge du Vieux-Port is one of the most charming boutique venues in the city.

Featuring stunning views of the Saint Lawrence River, you have the choice of dining in the Taverne Gaspar or the Terrassse Sur L’Auberge, depending on if you’re in the mood for a great pub feast or delectable dining experience. Either way, you’re in for a treat.

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