Montreal is known for having a vibrant restaurant scene catering to an array of culturally diverse cuisines. With the most restaurants per capita in North America, it would be impossible to get through them all even if you lived here!…Open the full description
Montreal is known for having a vibrant restaurant scene catering to an array of culturally diverse cuisines. With the most restaurants per capita in North America, it would be impossible to get through them all even if you lived here! In a nutshell, be sure to try poutine, smoked meat, and bagels.
Fabergé
10
2

With its striking purple accents and Montreal-themed painted walls, Fabergé is known among locals for serving up a hearty brunch. Located on one of the most charming avenues in Montreal (if you’re lucky, you’ll get a window seat facing the street), this eatery is where all the Mile End hipsters congregate on weekends – the lineup speaks for itself.
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Olive et Gourmando
18
6

Attracting everyone from regulars, to Old Montreal’s numerous visitors, this bakery turned café boasts fresh, local products. Their quirky decor will surely charm you. Always on and animated, Olive gets packed fairly quickly but takeout is an option if you’re on the go. Visit them for brunch, lunch paired with a glass of wine, coffee, and pastries.
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Local Experience
Montreal City Brew Tours
Prices from
87
CAD
Duration
3.5 h
Languages
French, English
La Banquise
Budget Meals
25
12

There’s nothing more “Montreal” than ending a night of partying with a poutine from La Banquise – even Anthony Bourdain recommends it. Open 24/7, it is where you go to satisfy your post-party munchies. The combination of hot fries oozing with gravy and cheese curds – and whatever else your heart (read: stomach) desires – is what you will find.
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La Panthère Verte
Budget Meals
12
3

Serving up vegan dishes, baked goods, smoothies, and healthy boosters (think wheatgrass shots), La Panthère Verte – or The Green Panther – is a local favourite. Pop into one of their three locations to eat lunch, grab takeout (or delivery), lounge on their outdoor terrace, shop organic finds, or work from your laptop in a relaxing setting.
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Taverne Square Dominion
Nightlife
11
1

Hidden just off of Sainte-Catherine street, this isn’t your grandfather’s tavern. Keeping with its old school vibe, its name comes from nearby Dorchester Square, which was called Dominion Square back in the day. Reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties, its ambiance is great for after work drinks or a hearty dinner. They also make a mean Sunday Roast.
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L’Avenue
11
4

With a lineup that begins to form fairly early on, you know this place is worth the wait. Once inside, it is bursting with energy due to the hip staff, graffiti murals, a motorcycle hanging from the ceiling, and outrageous portions. For those who can’t bear the thought of waking up before noon on weekends, breakfast is served until 4pm.
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Local Experience
Montreal City Brew Tours
Prices from
87
CAD
Duration
3.5 h
Languages
French, English
Imadake
Bars
10
4

This typical Japanese pub – or izakaya – is known for its animated atmosphere with staff dressed like anime characters serving up sake bombs and appetizer-style food made for sharing among friends. Their colourful wall murals, large communal wooden table in the centre, and action-packed open kitchen at the far back make up the vibrant decor.
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L'Express
Nightlife
13
5

The checkered floor that spells out the restaurant’s name in front is the sole indication that you have found L’Express. This eatery has been a Montreal staple for over 30 years – even Anthony Bourdain is a fan. Endlessly open and always lively in atmosphere, it’s as if time has frozen and left you in a classic 1920s French bistro.
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Le Cartet
13
4

Unbeknownst to most, Le Cartet is one of Montreal’s best brunch spots. It’s also one of the first places locals will direct you to if you want to discover Old Montreal through your stomach. Whether you wish to shop epicurean goods or have a light meal followed by a cup of illy coffee, this spot will satisfy both as it operates as a café & boutique.
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Joe Beef
Restaurants
12
3

Owned by pioneering Quebecois chefs Frédéric Morin & Dave McMillan, Joe Beef is an institution in Montreal. Nestled on Notre-Dame in Little Burgundy, travellers from all over, like Anthony Bourdain, consider it to be one of the leading restaurants in our food scene. Rest assured, locals make up the majority of the clientele here–we know good food!
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Vices & Versa Bistro Du Terroir
Bars
6
4

From their 30+ beers on tap from Quebec and elsewhere to their beatific terrace this place can't be beat. Open late every night it's a great place to have long chats with your friends. The food is great as well. Not a large menu but delicious rotating specials and a decent Poutine.
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El Rey del Taco
Budget Meals
7
0
The food is truly authentic mexican, it's always fresh, and really good value. People travel across town to eat here! The staff is good.
Although is is away from the downtown area, it is located right on Jean Talon Market. In the summer, there is an outdoor patio that gives on the market.
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Pizzeria Magpie
Restaurants
8
1

You may have heard of Pizzeria Magpie thanks to its good reputation among hipsters in the trendy Mile End, but chances are, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled when looking for it. Tucked on Maguire street right near the Main, this hole-in-the-wall is bustling with local foodies – even on weeknights.
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Kazu
Budget Meals
7
2

The only indication that Kazu is worth stopping at is the line that forms in front before they open. Once inside, the atmosphere is warm and lively – akin to what you’d experience in a Japanese izakaya. The space is tight so go with friends you aren’t afraid to be elbow-to-elbow with or snag a coveted seat at the bar to watch the chefs in action.
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Lawrence
Bars
9
3

If Lawrence was a Montrealer, they’d be a mix of the Mile End hipster and an Englishman with plenty of charm. Owned by a passionate crew, it isn’t uncommon to spot them working alongside wait staff. From weekend brunch (with a lineup that spills onto the sidewalk) to dinner, the menu is always filled with ingredients that stem from local producers.
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