Food Lover's Guide to Montreal

Montreal’s food scene is the envy of Canada. The city has restaurants representing almost every country and corner of the world, as well as a bevy of homegrown delicacies and signature dishes. Here’s what you need to know about eating in Montreal.

Must-Try Dishes

Ask any Montrealer what you should eat and chances are they’ll tell you to try poutine. This classic Quebecois dish consists of fries, gravy, and cheese curds, though all manner of additional toppings are available.

Originating from the city’s sizable Jewish population, Montreal smoked meat is another local specialty that has reached near-legendary status. Made from cured, smoked, and steamed beef brisket flavored with a mix of spices, the meat is typically served in a mustard-smeared sandwich. Another staple savory snack is the Montreal-style bagel. A touch sweeter and a good deal smaller than New York-style bagels, these are baked in a wood-fired oven and are often still warm when sold.

Then, of course, there is maple syrup. With the province Quebec—in which Montreal is situated— responsible for about 75 to 80 percent of the world’s maple syrup production, it’s no surprise the golden elixir is a fixture on breakfast tables as well as being used for desserts such as sugar pie ( tarte au sucre ).

Must-Do Experiences

• Experience Montreal’s booming craft beer scene with brewery visits and beer tastings at brewpubs.

• Sample a range of wines—red, white, rose, and ice wines—in Quebec’s wine country.

• Discover the best things to eat in Old Montreal, the Plateau, Mile End, and Chinatown on food tours of the city.

• Have a local guide show you authentic spots, such as a kosher bakery, a famous bagel shop, food trucks, and other long-standing local establishments.

• Browse the colorful farm-fresh produce for sale in Little Italy’s Jean Talon Market.