5 Best Foods in Montreal to Try When Visiting The City
Montreal isn’t just about attractions and activities – it’s also a paradise for food lovers. This city’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people. It offers a mix of traditional Quebecois dishes and flavors from around the world. From classic diners to new eateries, Montreal’s food scene is a treat for everyone.
We’re starting a delicious journey through the best foods in Montreal and places to eat. This guide is perfect for first-time visitors or foodies. It will show you the local specialties that make Montreal’s food special.
In This Post
- Montreal offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from traditional Quebecois to international cuisines
- Iconic establishments like Schwartz’s Deli and St-Viateur Bagel are must-visit spots for authentic Montreal flavors
- The city boasts innovative dining concepts, such as Time Out Market Montréal and Hiatus, offering unique culinary experiences
- Montreal’s restaurant scene caters to various tastes, from casual diners to high-end establishments
- Many restaurants in Montreal emphasize using fresh, local ingredients and showcase their producers
Overview of Montreal as a Popular Travel Destination
Montreal is a city that captures hearts with its mix of culture and food. It’s a top spot for travelers. The city’s unique vibe comes from blending French and North American styles.
Food lovers come to Montreal for its wide range of food. You can try famous dishes like poutine and smoked meat sandwiches. The city also has many international food spots, from casual Haitian places to fancy French bistros.
Montreal’s festivals bring the city to life. The Quartier des Spectacles is always buzzing with events. These events celebrate music, art, and food. They’re a great way to dive into Montreal’s vibrant culture.
Importance of Exploring Local Cuisine While Visiting Montreal
Exploring local food in Montreal gives you a unique taste of the city’s rich culture. To eat like a local, you must try the diverse flavors that make Montreal’s cuisine stand out.
Montreal’s food scene is a mix of many cultures. You can find flavors from China, Vietnam, Spain, and Hungary. Places like Wing Noodles, Banh Mi Cao Thang, and La Librairie Espagnole show this diversity.
Don’t miss these local favorites when you’re in Montreal:
- Poutine: A quintessential Montreal dish
- Smoked meat sandwiches: A city staple
- Bagels: Try them at Fairmont Bagel or St-Viateur Bagel
Montreal isn’t just about restaurants. For fresh produce, check out Jean-Talon Market with its 150 vendors.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| First Fridays festival | Largest gathering of food trucks in Quebec (Spring/Summer) |
| MTL à Table festival | Three-course meals for $33 at participating restaurants (Fall) |
| MTLàTABLE | 10th edition of Montreal’s restaurant week (November 3-13) |
By diving into Montreal’s local food scene, you’ll understand the city’s culture better. You’ll also make lasting memories of your trip.
Poutine
Ever wondered what dish could bring a whole city together? Look no further than poutine, Montreal’s favorite comfort food. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cultural icon that represents the city.
What is Poutine?
Poutine is the star of Quebec cuisine, showing off Montreal’s food scene. It has been a favorite for over 50 years, moving from a simple snack to a symbol of the city’s food culture.
Montreal’s poutine scene is full of different flavors. You can find everything from classic poutine to fancy versions. La Banquise offers over 30 unique poutine types, even vegan ones. For a fancy touch, try Au Pied de Cochon’s poutine with foie gras.
Poutine is made of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It started in rural Québec snack bars in the 1950s. Let’s look at each part to see why poutine is so loved.
French fries are the base of poutine. They are cut thick and fried until golden and crispy on the outside. To get them extra crispy, we soak them in cold water before frying.
Cheese curds are key to real poutine. These fresh, squeaky cheese pieces are made in Québec. When you add hot gravy, they melt but keep their shape.
The gravy brings it all together. It’s usually beef-based and poured over the fries and cheese curds. Some people like chicken or vegetable gravy instead.
Poutine is popular not just in Montreal but all over Canada and the world. You can find it in fancy restaurants and fast-food places. In Montreal, a poutine costs about $6.15, making it a great deal for everyone.
Popular Poutine Spots in Montreal
La Banquise is a top spot for poutine fans. It’s open all day, offering over 30 types, even vegan ones. But, be ready for lines.
Chez Claudette in Mile End is a great choice if you want to avoid crowds. It’s known for its tasty poutine at good prices. With more than 50 options, you’ll easily find your favorite.
Ma Poule Mouillée offers a unique poutine with a Portuguese twist. It’s loved for its chicken and chorizo topping. For those up late, Montreal Pool Room has classic poutine until 4 AM.
The best poutine in Montreal is about more than just the food. It’s about enjoying every cheesy, gravy-soaked bite. So, go ahead, explore, and indulge!
Bagels
Ever wondered why Montreal bagels are a big deal? These round treats have won over both locals and visitors for years. Let’s explore what makes Montreal-style bagels stand out.
Montreal Bagels Distinct Characteristics
Montreal bagels are known for their special qualities. They are smaller, sweeter, and denser than regular bagels. The recipe uses high-gluten flour, eggs, water, and honey but no salt. This mix gives them a unique taste.
They are made in a special way. First, they’re boiled in honey-sweetened water. Then, they’re baked in wood-fired ovens. This makes them crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Bagel lovers can’t get enough of this texture.
The wood-fired bagels have a special smoky taste. This traditional way of baking gives them a crispy outside and a soft inside. It’s this balance that makes Montreal bagels a top choice for food lovers visiting the city.
Renowned Bagel Shops in Montreal
Montreal is famous for its bagels, with many top shops offering tasty, hand-rolled ones. We’ve made a list of the best places in the city for you to check out.
Fairmount Bagel, opened in 1919, is known as Montreal’s first bagel bakery. It’s been open 24/7 since 1949, making it a top spot for bagel lovers. Their wood-fired bagels are loved by both locals and visitors.
St-Viateur Bagel has been a favorite since 1957. With many locations in the city, it’s a big name in Montreal’s bagel world.
Both Fairmount and St-Viateur are known for their wide range of flavors, especially the popular sesame seed. Watching the bakers make bagels by hand is a sight to see for anyone who loves food. For a real taste of Montreal, try a classic bagel sandwich.
The “Beautys Special” at Beautys Luncheonette has cream cheese, smoked salmon, tomatoes, and onions on a fresh bagel. It’s a mix of flavors that shows why Montreal bagels are famous worldwide.
Places like Bagel St-Lo in Verdun and Dizz’s Bagel in Pointe Claire offer new takes on the classic. They have everything from special menus to colorful rainbow bagels. These spots are making the Montreal bagel scene exciting and new.
Montreal’s bagel shops have traditional and new flavors for everyone. Make sure to try these famous treats when you visit!
Make sure to visit a bagel shop early in the morning for the best experience. Whether you like them plain or loaded with toppings, Montreal bagels will impress you.
Smoked Meat Sandwich
Ever wondered what makes Montreal’s smoked meat sandwich so special? This iconic dish has been a hit for almost a century. We’re about to dive into its secrets.
What is Montreal’s Famous Smoked Meat Sandwich
Montreal’s smoked brisket sandwich is a true culinary delight. At its heart is tender, flavorful smoked beef. This beef is cured for seven days and smoked for up to 15 hours. This process makes it rich in taste and tender to the touch.
The smoking happens over hardwoods like cherry and oak. This gives the meat a unique smoky flavor. A mix of nine spices, including black pepper and coriander, adds depth to the beef’s flavor.
For the sandwich, the beef is stacked high on fresh rye bread. This makes the sandwich look impressive. A layer of yellow mustard adds a tangy touch, enhancing the beef’s rich taste.
Customers can pick from lean, medium, or fatty cuts, each with its own flavor. The fatty option, known as “old-fashioned,” is especially loved for its bold taste. It comes with crisp pickles and tangy coleslaw, making it a special treat from Montreal.
Iconic Delis Known For Their Smoked Meat Sandwiches
Montreal is famous for its smoked meat, with many iconic delis serving this local treat. We’ve found the top places for the best smoked meat in Montreal.
Schwartz’s Deli, opened in 1928, is the heart of Montreal’s smoked meat. It has mastered seasoning and smoking beef brisket. This gives it a unique taste that draws people back time and again.
Reuben’s in downtown Montreal is another gem. It’s famous for its huge sandwiches. The Famous Super Sandwich, a 10-ounce giant, is perfect for big appetites.
Additionally, Snowdon Deli, Main Deli, and Lester’s Deli are popular spots for smoked meat in Montreal.
Looking for something outside the city center? Le Roi du Smoked Meat in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie and Jarry Smoked Meat in St-Leonard are great choices. These spots have been serving delicious smoked meat for years, showing that great food is everywhere in Montreal.
Maple Syrup Treats
Did you know Quebec makes over 70% of the world’s maple syrup? This liquid gold is more than just a topping in Montreal. It’s a way of life. You can enjoy traditional treats like maple taffy on snow or try maple-infused dishes at fancy restaurants. The choices are endless and all delicious.
Quebec maple syrup does more than taste good. It adds $1.1 billion to the province’s economy and supports 12,600 jobs. The industry also brings in $235 million in taxes for Quebec.
Maple Syrup Treats to Try
Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, making 92% of Canada’s total. This abundance means Montreal has many delicious maple desserts. Let’s look at some top maple syrup treats you can enjoy in the city.
Maple taffy, or “tire sur la neige,” is a classic Canadian treat. It’s made by pouring hot maple syrup on fresh snow and rolling it on a stick. This fun treat is great for both kids and adults.
Maple sugar pie is a dream for those who love sweets. It has a flaky crust filled with maple syrup, cream, and brown sugar. It’s a great way to finish a big meal in Montreal.
Don’t forget about maple butter, candies, and maple-glazed pastries. These treats show how versatile maple syrup can be in desserts. To dive into maple culture, visit during the sugaring-off season from late February to early April. This is when sugar shacks appear all over Montreal.
Places to Experience Maple Syrup Treats in Montreal
Montreal is a great place to try maple syrup treats. From late February to early May, you can enjoy many maple products. Sugar shacks near the city offer a true taste of Quebec’s maple tradition, just a short drive away.
In the city, specialty shops like Les Délices de l’Érable have maple treats all year. You’ll find everything from classic syrups to new kinds of sweets.
The “Sugaring Off” festival at Jean-Talon Market is a top spot for maple lovers. It’s a lively event that lets you try different treats and learn how syrup is made.
For a special trip, visit a sugar shack about an hour from Montreal. Most offer all-you-can-eat meals. And, 55% of them now have vegetarian options, showing a shift in what people like to eat.
Montreal has maple taffy, sugar pie, and pure syrup for everyone. Make sure to try these sweet treats when you visit!
Montreal-Style Pizza
Montreal pizza is more than just food; it’s a piece of the city’s history. Its crusty, cheesy goodness and generous toppings have made it a favorite. Let’s discover why it’s a top choice for food lovers and visitors.
The City’s Unique Pizza Style
Montreal’s pizza scene is as diverse as the city itself. We’ve found a wide range of pizza styles, from wood-fired Neapolitan to Roman-style al taglio. The city’s unique style really stands out. Imagine a medium-to-thick crust topped with sweet and savory tomato sauce. Add mushrooms, pepperoni, green bell peppers, and melted mozzarella for a taste of Montreal magic.
Wood-fired pizza is a big hit here. In fact, 67% of the pizzerias we checked out offer this tasty option. The high heat makes a crispy crust that’s slightly charred, adding flavor to every bite. Montreal chefs love to get creative with toppings. You’ll find everything from classic pepperoni to unique combos like potato with rosemary or rapini with sausage.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita or something new, Montreal’s pizza scene has it all. From cozy family spots to trendy new places, there’s a slice for every pizza lover in this lively city.
Recommended Pizzerias for Trying Montreal-Style Pizza
- Da Bologna: Operating since 1958, this spot is known for its yeasty dough.
- Gema: Try their Hawaiian pizza with smoked maple ham and oven-roasted pineapple.
- Bottega: Specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan pies.
- Pizza Bouquet: A slice shop with unique toppings that’s quickly becoming a local favorite.
- Il Focolaio: Features a 30-year-old wood-fired oven and 77 different toppings!
Montreal is known for its vibrant pizza scene. Local pizzerias serve up the best pizza in town. They offer unique flavors and styles.
Bottega pizzeria is famous for its Italian wood-burning oven. It reaches 900°F, making a perfectly charred crust. Gema pizzeria uses an electric deck oven from Italy. This gives a distinct texture and flavor.
Melrose pizzeria has half-dozen starters and 10 pizza types, plus daily specials. Magpie has been open since 2010 and is loved for its wide range of toppings.
For something unique, try Moleskine. They offer nine types of pizzas, from classic to innovative “raclette” pizza. Pizzeria No. 900 is a chain with 10 locations across Montreal, offering consistent quality.
| Pizzeria | Specialty | Year Established |
|---|---|---|
| Napoletana | Traditional Neapolitan | 1948 |
| Il Focolaio | Variety of toppings | 1984 |
| Magpie | Creative toppings | 2010 |
| Chez Zac | Vegan-only pizzas | 2020 |
| Ugo | Roman-style pizza | 2021 |
Montreal’s pizza scene has something for everyone. From traditional to innovative, these pizzerias showcase Montreal’s culinary creativity.
Conclusion
Montreal’s food scene is a mix of flavors that calls to food lovers everywhere. We’ve looked into the best foods to try in Montreal and found it’s a top spot for foodies. It has a mix of traditional and new tastes that will make your mouth water.
We’ve tried famous dishes like poutine and smoked meat sandwiches. We also found hidden spots that show off the city’s food heritage. Montreal is known for its food tourism, thanks to its diverse flavors.
We’ve tasted maple syrup treats and Montreal-style bagels. We’ve also tried foods from around the world that have made their mark here. From Vietnamese Banh Mi to Portuguese-style chicken, the city’s food shows its mix of cultures.
In conclusion, Montreal’s food scene is a destination you shouldn’t miss. We invite you to check out the city’s food and try its specialties. Whether you want classic dishes or something new, Montreal has it all.
Recap of The Must-Try Local Foods in Montreal
Our Montreal food guide wouldn’t be complete without a quick recap of the must-try local specialties for families. Montreal’s culinary scene is full of flavors, making it a top spot for food lovers. It has the most restaurants per person in Canada, offering a wide range of options for every taste.
Family-friendly restaurants in Montreal offer dishes everyone will enjoy. Poutine, with its fries, cheese curds, and gravy, is a favorite. La Banquise is open all day, great for late-night or early breakfast cravings.
Don’t miss Montreal-style bagels, smaller and sweeter than New York’s. Fairmount Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel serve these hand-rolled, honey-boiled treats fresh from the oven. For a filling meal, try a smoked meat sandwich, a classic since the early 1900s.
| Dish | Description | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Poutine | Fries with cheese curds and gravy | La Banquise |
| Montreal-style Bagels | Hand-rolled, honey-boiled bagels | Fairmount or St-Viateur Bagel |
| Smoked Meat Sandwich | Cured and smoked beef on rye | Schwartz’s Deli |
From brunch spots with maple syrup treats to pizzerias with unique Montreal-style pizza, this city’s food scene has something for everyone. So, grab your family and start a tasty journey in Montreal!