The Best Restaurants in Montreal

Montreal is widely recognized for its thriving food culture providing a range of dining options to suit all tastes. Whether you prefer bistros or lively high end restaurants the city offers a diverse and delectable culinary scene. In this guide, we explore some of the best restaurants in Montreal, each offering unique flavors and unforgettable dining experiences.

Whether you’re a food lover, from the area or a traveler seeking to savor the wonders of Montreal these dining establishments guarantee to transport you on an adventure through the core of one of Canadas most renowned cities, for its gastronomy.

Sissi & Paul

A hidden gem among the best restaurants in Montreal, Sissi & Paul offers an authentic Haitian experience. Known for its griot, a pork dish that is marinated braised and then fried to perfection the restaurant also offers lambi (conch stew) and kibi (meat fritters).

It’s a laid back family owned establishment where the flavorsre just as bold and lively, as the culture it embodies. Ideal, for those seeking a taste of cuisine in a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere.

Hélicoptère

Hélicoptère is truly one of the top notch dining establishments, in Montreal offering a combination of cuisine in a relaxed setting. The talented chefs curate a menu that beautifully merges ingredients with diverse international flavors.

Also some recent standout dishes include duck paired with carrot puree and flavorful bluefin tuna served alongside sweet corn. This culinary experience in Hochelaga is complemented by a coffee shop and bakery making it an ideal destination, for food enthusiasts looking to indulge throughout the day.

Ho Guom

Ho Guom, a cozy BYOB spot in Villeray, is a treasure among the best restaurants in Montreal for Vietnamese cuisine. This place is famous, for its pho, the chicken and lemon leaf variety well as the beefy versions topped with fresh herbs.

The restaurant also stands out for its Vietnamese delicacies, like grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf. To end your meal on a note you can try an avocado smoothie or a chè ba màu.

Mastard

Mastard is truly one of the restaurants, in Montreal offering a culinary experience in the Rosemont area. Chef Simon Mathys displays his love for sourced ingredients through an impressive menu that changes with the seasons.

You can anticipate creative dishes such as creamy matsutake mushrooms paired with carrots or a vibrant lettuce tart. The “carte blanche” option presents a five course adventure at a price making Mastard an absolute must visit for anyone who values farm, to table dining.

Resto-Bar Le Pick Up

Among the best restaurants in Montreal for a laid-back dining experience, Resto-Bar Le Pick Up in Hochelaga serves up comfort food with flair. Their menu might not be extensive. It sure delivers an experience, with options like a mouthwatering Nashville style fried chicken sandwich and perfectly crispy fries seasoned with cilantro and garlic.

Also don’t forget to indulge in their house made doughnuts for a sweet treat. This place is perfect for a laid back evening, out offering music and a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel at home.

Mange Dans Mon Hood (MDMH)

MDMH stands out in Villeray. Is one of the restaurants, in Montreal, for burger lovers. This fantastic place blends hip hop culture with a vibe.

Their smash burgers, featuring formed patties and caramelized edges are an absolute must try. The fries, cooked in beef tallow are a standout, their Dirty Fries variation. Also it’s an enjoyable spot thats perfect for a night out with friends.

Le Super Qualité

Le Super Qualité in La Petite-Patrie is a vibrant addition to the best restaurants in Montreal. This restaurant specializing in South street food is particularly known for its tiffins and masala dosas.

However don’t miss out on their snacks like dahi batata puri and okra battered with chickpea flour. With its laid back ambiance and delightful cocktails it’s the place, for a get together providing a delightful experience of Indias rich and varied culinary traditions.

Paloma

Paloma, an eatery, in Montreal is run by a father and daughter. It stands out among the dining establishments with its inviting ambiance. Drawing inspiration from their Niçoise and Italian roots they serve dishes such, as calfs brains in a lemon butter sauce and traditional spaghetti carbonara.

What sets this restaurant apart is its atmosphere creating a one of a kind dining experience that caters to individuals who value personalized service and homestyle cuisine.

Darna Bistroquet

Nestled in La Petite-Patrie, Darna Bistroquet is a charming choice among the best restaurants in Montreal for North African flavors. It’s a bistro, in the neighborhood that gives off a homely vibe. They serve dishes like hazelnut sunchokes and a chicken tagine bursting with spices.

Their Moroccan brunches on the weekends are absolutely delightful making Darna an ideal choice, for dinners or relaxed weekend meals.

Montréal Plaza

Located in Plaza St Hubert Montréal Plaza is renowned for its experience that seamlessly blends charm and sophistication. The restaurant offers a menu that showcases pairings such, as foie gras terrine accompanied by crabapple caramel and blood pudding served with delectable lobster bisque.

Don’t miss out on the Crispy Fruit dessert—it’s a must try! Montréal Plaza is the choice, for those seeking an evening that combines refined dining with a touch of playfulness.

Pichai

Pichai, a gem on St-Hubert Street, is among the best restaurants in Montreal for Thai cuisine lovers. It offers a formal yet relaxed setting, focusing on Isan grilled meats and herby salads.

Pichai is a must visit restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, like the spicy pork collar (kor moo yang). The minced duck salad (laab ped). Don’t miss out on their dessert Thai tea infused tiramisu, which adds a twist, to traditional Thai flavors.

Mon Lapin

Mon Lapin has become a dining destination, in Montreal particularly after it secured the spot, on Canadas 100 Best Restaurants list in 2023. Known for its dynamic menu that features farm-fresh veggies and seasonal seafood, it’s a prime example of the best restaurants in Montreal.

Favorites include the Croque-Pétoncle (scallop sandwich) and leek conservas with chips. The bustling atmosphere and frequently changing menu make every visit to Mon Lapin an exciting culinary adventure.

Pizza Bouquet

If you’re looking for a one of a kind pizza experience you can’t go wrong with Pizza Bouquet. This restaurant, in Montreal is known for its offerings. Situated across from Notre Dame des Quilles it combines the best of New York New Haven and “New Montreal” styles.

Their Upside Down and Soppressata pizzas are highly recommended by regulars. Given its popularity it’s advisable to call and reserve a pie. So if you’re, after a laid back yet pizza experience Pizza Bouquet is the place to be.

Ma Poule Mouillée

Famous for its spicy piri piri chicken and mountainous seasoned fries, Ma Poule Mouillée is a go-to among the best restaurants in Montreal for Portuguese grill.

Their poutine is famous, for its toppings of chicken, grilled chouriço and cheese. It’s a place to enjoy an fulfilling meal, with efficient service and a lively atmosphere.

Larrys

Larrys, a one of a kind café/wine bar located in Saint Denis is highly regarded as one of the dining establishments, in Montreal due to its versatility. Whether you’re looking for an English style breakfast or craving mackerel spaghetti and albacore ceviche for dinner Larrys has got you covered.

What sets it apart is its welcoming atmosphere with a no reservations and no tipping policy adding a touch of sophistication, to your dining experience.

Damas

As one of the best restaurants in Montreal, Damas offers an upscale Syrian dining experience that’s both sensory and sumptuous. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes ranging from walnut filled sea bass, to grilled main courses.

The tasting menu, consisting of 10 courses takes you on an adventure, through the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. As you dine in the decorated dining room adorned with lanterns and intricate patterns you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable atmosphere.

Kitano Shokudo

If you’re a fan of sushi then you absolutely must check out Kitano Shokudo, a bistro located in the Plateau area of Montreal. Not does it specialize in raw fish dishes, like sashimi and nigiri but it also serves up other popular Japanese favorites such as mazemen.

With its intimate atmosphere it’s a spot, for either a relaxed date night or enjoying a meal on your own. Kitano Shokudo truly brings a taste of Japan to Montreal.

Yokato Yokabai

For ramen enthusiasts, Yokato Yokabai is a top pick among the best restaurants in Montreal. With its expertise, in crafting flavorful and velvety tonkotsu ramen this place provides a range of choices, such as chicken, soy and vegan broths. The energetic ambiance and the absence of reservations create a setting, for savoring Japanese ramen.

Alma

Alma, located in Outremont is renowned as one of the dining establishments, in Montreal due to its coastal Catalan cuisine. Their nine course tasting menu takes diners on a expedition and on Sundays they offer an exclusive taco omakase experience.

If securing a reservation at Alma proves challenging fret not! Tinc Set, their neighboring wine bar presents an alternative, with its tantalizing tapas. Succulent roasted chicken.

La Panzeria

La Panzeria offers a taste of Southern Italy and stands out among the best restaurants in Montreal. Situated in Saint Denis this place is famous, for its Barese focaccia, panzerotto and Polignano panino.

The lower floor arrangement adds an inviting ambiance making it an ideal spot to savor lunches, coffees and evening aperitivi on Thursdays and Fridays.

Final Thought

Montreal’s dining scene is a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and culinary innovation. The Best Restaurants in Montreal listed here represent just a glimpse of what this vibrant city has to offer. Montreal is a city that truly delights food enthusiasts thanks, to its establishments that offer not delicious meals but also their own unique charm.

Whether you’re in the mood, for a laid back meal or a sophisticated dining experience Montreals best restaurants are guaranteed to leave you with memories that perfectly reflect the citys diverse and vibrant food culture. So when you visit Montreal make sure to savor the flavors and embrace the experiences offered by these dining destinations.