The 38 Top Restaurants in Montreal

Blending a fine dining approach with a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, Hélicoptère has been delighting diners since its inception in 2018. Get ready for a constantly evolving menu filled with vibrant, inventive dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and global flavors, crafted by chefs David Ollu and Marianne Lafleur. Dishes like lobster with zucchini, coconut milk, and hazelnuts, or beef-cranberry tartare with mole are must-tries. Don't miss Hélicoptère’s sibling spots — the adjacent coffee shop Hélico, the nearby bakery Aube, and the wine bar Copilote — all essential stops on your Hochelaga journey.

When it comes to the city's best pho, diners have diverse opinions. Some swear by Ho Guom’s comforting chicken and lemon leaf version, while others rave about the hearty beef varieties loaded with bean sprouts and aromatic herbs. However, regulars at this beloved BYOB spot in Villeray insist that the Northern Vietnamese specialties truly shine. Don't miss the savory grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf, the fried fish patties, or the Hanoi-style grilled pork, all served with vermicelli and fresh greens. For a sweet treat, consider an avocado smoothie or a serving of chè ba màu (three-color bean dessert) to finish off your meal.

Chef Simon Mathys has gained recognition as one of the finest in the industry, having honed his skills at the now-closed Manitoba. At Mastard, the Rosemont Mytoury he opened in 2021, his commitment to local ingredients shines through with a thoughtfully crafted seasonal menu. Dishes like carrots adorned with creamed matsutake mushrooms and a sabayon of meat juices, along with a vibrant lettuce tart that gained online fame, are standout offerings. The carte blanche menu, priced at $85 ($63 USD) for five courses, includes an optional wine pairing. Note: Mastard is open Monday to Friday.

This Hochelaga spot is the ideal evening complement to Mile End’s dépanneur-style sandwich counter, Le Pick Up. Since its launch in 2021, Resto-Bar Le Pick Up has been dishing out a relaxed atmosphere, vibrant music, and delicious burgers in a gritty locale on Ontario Street. The concise menu packs a punch with standout items like a flavorful Nashville fried chicken sandwich, crispy cilantro-garlic fries, and delectable house-made doughnuts. For drinks, you can choose from solid cocktails, natural wines, and local brews from L’Espace Public. If you manage to grab a burgundy booth on a Thursday, celebrate — it’s gin and oyster night.

Smash burger spots are popping up all over, but this Villeray gem stands out. A classic casse-croûte gets a West Coast twist, starting in 2015 when chef Michel Lim began serving burgers from his garage for a Restaurant Day event. Now, alongside childhood friend Michel Nguyen (also behind La Belle Tonki), they draw diners to a vibrant space adorned with hip-hop influences and vintage movie posters, echoing a retro diner vibe. MDMH shines with its perfectly pressed patties, charred to perfection, while Lim’s thin-cut fries, fried in beef tallow, take the spotlight in poutine and the Ol’ Dirty Fries — a delightful mix featuring cheese sauce, house burger sauce, pickles, and onions.

This vibrant blue South Indian street food Mytoury in La Petite-Patrie excels at its tiffins (both vegetarian and meat) and masala dosas, but savvy diners know to explore the snack offerings as well. Don't miss the delightful dahi batata puri, tiny shells filled with yogurt, tamarind chutney, and crispy sev; chickpea-battered okra; or the wada pav, a spiced potato patty enveloped in a soft, fluffy bun and slathered with chutney. With refreshing cocktails and a chill atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back gathering.

Tucked away on a tranquil stretch of Saint-Denis, this modern Italian gem hits every note perfectly. It serves seemingly straightforward yet remarkable appetizers (such as fried fish in sugo crudo and melt-in-your-mouth beef carpaccio), alongside irresistibly delicious pasta dishes and an excellent array of cocktails and desserts. Since relocating to a larger venue, it’s a bit easier to secure a table, though—fair warning—reservations still go fast. For takeout that won’t let you down, try the nearby Moccione Pizza, run by the same team.

While Mondays can be challenging, especially since many Montreal restaurants take a break, Casavant stands out as a vibrant nouveau French brasserie nestled on a Villeray corner. Open every day until midnight, it’s a handy spot to have on your radar. Popular dishes include beef tartare enhanced with smoked mackerel and sausage on mash, while the impressive wine list and stunning cellar reflect the expertise of its owners, who previously ran the beloved Montreal wine bar Vinvinvin. Enjoy the final days of summer on the lively terrace adorned with flowers.

This cozy establishment in La Petite-Patrie feels like a small neighborhood bistro while bringing the warm flavors of North Africa to life. Appropriately named Darna, which means 'home' in Arabic, it boasts an inviting atmosphere with rattan light fixtures and a collection of mismatched picture frames. Enjoy comforting dishes such as saffron-spiced chicken tagine, fried brussels sprouts with puffed barley, herby falafel served with house pickles, and carrot cake topped with cardamom labneh for dessert. Plus, they offer Moroccan brunches on weekends.

Since its debut in 2016, Automne has captivated bread enthusiasts with its masterful approach to both classic staples and innovative seasonal offerings. In a city rich with excellent bakeries, this establishment, founded by Seth Gabrielse and Julien Roy, draws crowds to its original location on Avenue Christophe-Colomb and a nearby second spot on Bélanger Street. Don’t miss the sourdough batard, a weekly highlight, the broccoli cheddar quiche perfect for brunch, and the indulgent ham and aged cheddar croissant. For sweet treats, the chocolatine and cinnamon buns might just be the finest in the city. As summer fades, watch for delightful seasonal specials like the sour cream muffin with rhubarb compote or the roasted peach Danish with jasmine green tea pastry cream.

This Little Italy gem, brought to you by Au Pied de Cochon veterans Emily Homsy and David Gauthier, defies easy classification. Located in a former dive bar that shares its name, it serves exceptional drinks alongside an impressive wine selection. But visit for dinner and you'll discover it shines as a restaurant—an outstanding one at that. The seasonal menu showcases Egyptian flavors with crispy falafel, razor clams stuffed with tabbouleh, and olive-laden labneh paired with beautiful flatbread, while also reflecting a blend of diverse inspirations. Don’t miss long-time favorites like the incredibly tender, subtly sweet scallops or a show-stopping dessert: Tableside baked Alaska drizzled with canned maple syrup and flambéed with whiskey.

Among the city's esteemed fine dining venues, this lively Plaza St-Hubert restaurant from chefs Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson stands out for its playful charm. Dishes are both sophisticated and intricate without taking themselves too seriously, featuring delights like foie gras terrine served with melon water, cucumber, corn, and brioche, or whelks enhanced with miso butter and lime, paired with milk bread.

Conclude your evening with Montréal Plaza’s signature Fruit Crispy, a light dessert composed of berries, white chocolate mousse, sorbet, and delicate dacquoise slivers. For a casual lunch or relaxed dinner, check out their sister establishment, Juliette Plaza, just next door.

With over a decade of service, Impasto feels both timeless and refreshingly current. This Italian Mytoury, the first of several ventures by renowned Montreal restaurateurs Stefano Faita and chef Michele Forgione, offers house-cured charcuterie, airy focaccia, seasonal salads, and regional pastas and mains. The menu shifts frequently, but anticipate Quebec ingredients in dishes that whisk you across Italy, from Rome’s vitello saltimbocca (sautéed veal with prosciutto and sage) and tubetti alla gricia (guanciale, black pepper, pecorino) to southern Italy’s nutty sea bass crudo and Sicilian-style cavatelli with sun-dried tomato and almond pesto. Don't miss their sibling spots Gema (Neapolitan pizza across the street), Vesta (more pizza with a local twist), and Chez Tousignant (a reinvented Quebec-style diner).

Always bustling, Mon Lapin is one of the most sought-after dining spots, especially after clinching the top position on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list for 2023 and 2024. The menu shifts regularly, reflecting the creative inspirations of chefs Marc-Olivier Frappier and Jessica Noël, but it consistently highlights farm-fresh vegetables and seasonal seafood, featuring favorites like the Croque-Pétoncle (a crispy scallop sandwich), leek conservas served with chips, and a layered buckwheat cake. Reservations are highly recommended.

This laid-back Thai curry spot opened its doors in Little Italy in 2017 and has been delighting diners with bold, spicy flavors ever since. Be sure to try the fried chicken wings drizzled with sweet chile sauce, the spicy pad kaprao with sautéed pork and a fried egg, or the generous serving of shrimp pad thai. Don’t miss the curry of the day; honestly, everything here is a hit. Whether you prefer to enjoy your meal in a cozy booth with friends, sit solo by the window, or take it to go, this place has you covered. For a more refined experience, check out their sister restaurant, Pichai, on St-Hubert Street.

Owner André Theriault struck gold when he started making pizzas from a counter at the LGBTQ-friendly Notre Dame des Quilles on Beaubien Street. Now, the slice shop has its own dedicated space right across the street, allowing for increased production. Available for takeout by the slice or as a 16-inch round, Bouquet’s pizzas blend influences from New York, New Haven, and their own twist dubbed New Montreal. Highlights include the Upside-Down (with mozzarella underneath and a garlicky tomato sauce topped with gremolata) and the Soppressata (loaded with spicy Italian salami, goat cheese, red onions, and honey), while the specials can be even more adventurous, featuring toppings like creamy corn, mozzarella, pickled chiles, and green onions. This place gets busy, so if you're after a whole pie, be sure to call ahead.

This long-standing, unpretentious spot in the Plateau is often hailed as a top destination for poutine in the city. Renowned for its inventive twists on the classic Québécois dish, Chez Claudette features options like the Soleil with sunny-side-up eggs, the Galvaud with chicken and peas (a playful take on a local favorite), the Sucré-Salé topped with onion rings, honey, and sliced corn dogs, and the Cabane, which pays tribute to Quebec’s sugar shack traditions with ham, sausage, bacon, baked beans, and maple syrup — and that’s just a taste of the menu. If the extensive choices feel overwhelming, you can always rely on the classic trio: fries, curds, and gravy are sure to satisfy.

At Portuguese grill Ma Poule Mouillée, the quarter or half-chicken plates are a must-try, generously drizzled with zesty piri piri and accompanied by a heap of perfectly seasoned fries and a light salad. The poutine, enhanced with chicken, grilled chouriço, and São Jorge cheese, has also gained a cult following. Efficient counter service keeps the line moving swiftly, even as hungry locals and tourists often spill out the door.

The team behind Lawrence and Boucherie Lawrence struck gold in 2016 with Larrys, a laid-back café and wine bar that's open from morning to night. Starting at 9 a.m. daily (except Mondays), they serve a delightful English-style breakfast featuring scones with jam and clotted cream, roasted tomatoes, and an exceptional breakfast sandwich. As night falls, indulge in breadcrumb-topped mackerel spaghetti, albacore ceviche, beef tartare, and beautiful seasonal vegetable dishes, complemented by an impressive wine selection. No reservations are needed, and there's no tipping.

Renowned as one of the top bakeries in a city rich with options, Mile End’s Cheskie (often referred to as “Cheskie’s” by locals) has been a beloved kosher Jewish sweets destination for over 20 years. Founded by Cheskie Lebowitz, a New Yorker who embraced Montreal life, the bakery excels in its black-and-white cookies. Cheskie’s shelves are filled with cheese crowns, rugelach, babka, mini cheesecakes, and kokosh, a denser Hungarian version of babka, swirled with chocolate or poppy seed. However, the true star is arguably the Russian babka, a chewy, gooey delight that is incredibly rich, though it hides at the back counter. Open until 11 p.m. most nights, Cheskie is closed on Saturdays.

A cornerstone of Montreal’s culinary landscape, the upscale Syrian restaurant Damas offers a full sensory journey. From walnut-stuffed sea bass to a variety of robust char-grilled dishes infused with sumac and Aleppo pepper, chef and owner Fuad Alneirabeie presents some truly mouthwatering creations, using ingredients sourced both locally and from Syria. The 10-course tasting menu is a guaranteed delight, featuring vibrant mezze, fattoush salad, grilled octopus, and kibbeh nayyeh (a refreshing mix of raw lamb and beef). The lavish dining room, decorated with numerous lanterns, intricate designs, and rich reds, adds to the feast for the senses. For a quicker option, check out Folfol across the street, which offers Damas flavors in convenient sandwich form.

Previously known as Otto Bistro, this Japanese Mytoury in the Plateau area is renowned for its exquisite raw fish dishes, including sashimi, chirashi, nigiri, and maguro don, along with mazemen (brothless ramen topped with delights like duck confit and burrata) and a range of expertly crafted plates from chef Hiroshi Kitano. This unassuming location on Mont-Royal Avenue features high tables and bar seating, offering a cozy and intimate vibe ideal for casual dates or solo meals. For a twist on Western cuisine with a Japanese flair, visit Ohayo Café, Kitano’s adjacent venture.

Since its inception in 2018, this delightful hideaway in Outremont has showcased coastal Catalan cuisine so skillfully that patrons might forget they’re in Montreal. Currently, chef Juan Lopez Luna emphasizes modern Mexican fare, using nixtamalized corn sourced from his home state of Tlaxcala. The restaurant offers both nine- and five-course tasting menus, complemented by an enchanting wine selection curated by Luna’s partner, Lindsay Brennan. Once a month on Sundays, they invite a guest chef for a collaborative taco omakase event, while Saturdays feature a back-alley taqueria called Terraza Luz.

Opened in 1980 on Saint-Denis, L’Express was established to serve the vibrant local crowd with reliable French cuisine in a classic black-and-white tiled setting, available almost around the clock. This quintessential bistro has remained largely unchanged over the years, with bar seats now more sought after than ever. Under the guidance of chef Jean-François Vachon, who has been in charge since 2016, L’Express continues to deliver timeless favorites like pistachio-studded chicken liver pâté, steak frites with shallot butter, and veal kidneys in mustard sauce.

This laid-back Venezuelan Mytoury specializes in arepas, a traditional stuffed cornbread. At Arepera, you can choose from an extensive selection of fillings, including beef, chicken, pork, fish, and vegetarian options, complemented by toppings like avocado and plantains. The menu also features empanadas, cassava fries, and pabellón, which includes stewed and shredded beef served with rice and black beans. With its spacious location in the Plateau, gluten-free menu, and vegan options, it’s an ideal spot for a casual meetup among friends with various dietary needs.

Located in Chinatown, this top Hong Kong-style diner and barbecue spot is operated by the Ku brothers, who took over from their father and have added delicious new dishes like fried chicken, chile-garlic wontons, and daily specials such as cumin lamb skewers paired with cajun yogurt sauce. However, the classic offerings of char siu pork, crispy roast pork, and roast duck served with a memorable ginger-scallion sauce continue to be the stars of the menu.

This hidden gem of a Japanese snack and sake bar, established three years ago, cleverly retains the name and signage of the former Chinatown flower shop that occupied the space. Inside, guests are greeted by a cozy, dimly lit wooden interior, enhanced by a carefully curated soundtrack and delectable dishes crafted by chef Tetsuya Shimizu. Don’t miss the sea urchin cream served with shrimp chips, the artfully arranged chirashi bowl, three-day miso-aged duck, and the spicy tantan udon, featuring wheat noodles dressed in chili oil with ground pork. Complement your meal with a choice from the sake list, which emphasizes natural and unfiltered options. To continue your night, head downstairs to the sibling vinyl bar, Sans Soleil.

If you're craving the legendary Montreal smoked meat without the long lines, Snowdon Deli is your answer. Established in 1942, this family-owned spot serves the city’s signature smoked meat on rye slathered with mustard, alongside hearty matzo ball soup, chopped liver, latkes, knishes, and blintzes — all without the wait. Inside, you’ll find a casual atmosphere where locals settle into booths, lively conversations fill the air, and experienced staff keep everything running smoothly.

A refreshing addition to Notre-Dame’s food scene, Heni is brought to you by a team dedicated to blending the vibrant flavors and cultural influences of the SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) region with Quebec’s fresh produce. Chef Julien Robillard, a former member of the Pastel kitchen, leads the culinary efforts, creating dishes that radiate a sense of care and artistry. Don’t miss the stunning kibbeh nayyeh, featuring raw PEI beef and caperberries. The drink selection leans heavily on Lebanese wines sourced from their sister wine venture, Sienna, and inventive cocktails incorporating ingredients like rose and ras el hanout. For a deeper experience, head downstairs to Salon Badin, the team’s listening lounge.

This dependable counter-service Mytoury serves up some of Montreal’s finest shawarma, falafel, chicken, and beef kofta. The extensive menu features generous platters and an array of delectable spreads, including hummus, baba ghanoush, muhammara, and labneh, along with fresh salads like spicy carrots and green cabbage. Founded by Raquel Zagury and David Bloom, this Saint-Henri gem is a must-visit for any Montreal food lover.

This vibrant public market located by the Lachine Canal showcases local products throughout the year, and during harvest season, it bursts with outdoor stalls and a lively restaurant area. Market-goers can indulge in returning favorites like Léché Desserts’ light and fluffy doughnuts, Satay Brothers’ savory laksa, steamed buns, and zesty salads, alongside Falafel Yoni’s exceptional sabiche and falafel sandwiches. Don’t miss Aylwin Barbecue, a unique seasonal stall serving what might be the city’s best Texan-style barbecue, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork with delightful sides. Choose your favorites, grab a seat at a picnic table or by the canal, and celebrate this local merchant hub that has thrived since 1933.

Pikliz may be somewhat hidden, located just off the bustling culinary scene of Saint-Henri, but it’s definitely worth the search. Since its inception in 2019, the Acacia brothers have infused their Haitian heritage into this cozy venue, showcasing family photos, warm decor, and vibrant Caribbean music. Their griot poutine, topped with succulent pulled griot, rich Creole gravy, and a zesty pikliz, has gained a loyal following. However, don't overlook their marinated and fried kabrit (goat), crispy plantains, spicy mango chicken wings, djondjon rice, banana donuts, and refreshing cocktails.

In a city that endures long, cold winters, Montreal boasts an impressive ice cream culture, with Dalla Rose at the forefront. This establishment excels at crafting innovative flavor pairings using local ingredients. Imagine combinations like chanterelle mushrooms with brown butter and cocoa nibs, ricotta with Ontario peaches, nuts, and maple syrup, or a vanilla and Quebec cantaloupe swirl. Founded by Michael Dalla Libera and Nick Rosati, both former team members of the beloved Nora Gray, the name Dalla Rose reflects their collaboration. Any flavor they offer is certainly worth standing in line for.

This compact gem offering coffee, pizza, and wine might be easily overlooked. However, if you stroll to the alley behind its well-known sibling, Elena, a prominent fixture in Montreal’s Italian dining scene, you’ll find a charming, tiered terrace that checks all the boxes. Sharing the same kitchen and much of the menu as Elena, you can expect the same delectable sourdough pizzas that attract diners, alongside a delightful kale Caesar salad and an excellent selection of natural wines. Don't miss the Industrie Alla Pala, a rectangular pizza with a thicker crust, generously topped with creamy stracciatella. At lunch, sample the hoagie. Reservations aren't needed, but be aware that this hidden spot is gaining popularity.

The opening of this vibrant wine bar on Sherbrooke Street West was a notable event for Montreal’s NDG neighborhood, thanks to a group of enterprising young restaurateurs. Since its debut in 2021, the kitchen has been crafting dishes that seamlessly reflect the changing seasons while showcasing an array of global flavors. Consider the hamachi crudo paired with roasted shishito peppers, labneh, trout roe, and a tangy strawberry vinaigrette, or the elotes drizzled with coriander cream and sprinkled with cojita. The beverage selection is equally impressive, featuring a rotating array of natural wines and expertly mixed cocktails—like a martini infused with watermelon, grapefruit, and cardamom—served from behind a striking deep-green marble bar.

Since its debut in 2019 in Verdun, brothers Ari and Pablo Schor have aimed to capture the rich blend of Spanish and Italian immigrant influences from their Argentine roots, while also incorporating elements of their Jewish heritage. Step away from Promenade Wellington and into the cozy atmosphere of Beba, where you'll find vibrant seasonal seafood, fresh salads, expertly boiled and braised meats and vegetables, alongside delightful pasta dishes. Don’t miss starting your meal with potato knishes adorned with caviar.

In a spacious loft filled with wooden tables and illuminated by string lights, McKiernan serves hearty and comforting dishes with a touch of elegance. As one of the four restaurants in the Joe Beef family, it’s well-known for its rotisserie chicken and large schnitzels, but don’t miss out on the pasta, sides, desserts, and daily specials. The vodka rosé rigatoni, Brussels sprouts with almonds and blue cheese, and seasonal doughnuts—such as a recent peaches and cream offering—are also favorites at this Côte-Saint-Paul spot.

For more than 60 years, this family-owned butcher and specialty shop in LaSalle has attracted locals eager for top-notch meats. Many claim their Italian sandwiches are among the best in the city. While Marchigiani’s renowned porchetta is a standout, the menu also features chicken cutlet, sausage, meatballs, and more. Don’t forget to consider them for catering; they offer impressive eight-foot sandwiches, baked pastas, assorted salads, and snacks like arancini and stuffed olives.