Montreal, Quebec
Montreal, Quebec
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Montreal was on my list for a long time. The city’s foodie reputation is legendary. It’s important to note that we went in August, when the weather is perfect and you’re able to walk and bike around. I’ve heard from friends that the winter is still fun, though quite a different (mostly indoor!) experience.
Eat
KemCoBa
Mile End. Spectacular and very popular ice cream shop with flavors like honey, durian, Vietnamese coffee, and lime mint. It’s worth the wait!
Boulangerie Guillaume
Plateau-Mont-Royal. French bakery offering a dozen types of bread—croissant, baguette, pain levain, and more. I filled my bag with bread for the trip home.
◐ Beauty’s Luncheonette
Plateau-Mont-Royal. Classic Montreal diner since 1942. Get the Beauty’s Special for a Montreal-style bagel and lox sandwich. Expect a line at weekend brunch, so try to go early.
Bagel Etc.
Plateau-Mont-Royal. 1960s Montreal diner with everything for brunch, including bagels! Leonard Cohen went here for breakfast every morning. Go here if Beauty’s has a big line.
La Panthère Verte
Mile End & Plateau-Mont-Royal. Fresh and delicious vegan spot—falafel, salads, and more. Perfect for a break from meat and poutine.
Olive + Gourmando
Ville-Marie. A foodie favorite for pastries, treats, and sandwiches. Ideal for lunch in the Old Port area.
Le Moineau – The Sparrow
Plateau-Mont-Royal. Cozy neighborhood pub in Mile End with an excellent cocktail list and bar snacks, plus a few Indian dishes like butter chicken.
Schwartz’s
Plateau-Mont-Royal. Iconic deli known for its smoked meat sandwiches—one of Montreal’s oldest and most famous.
Drink
Dieu de Ciel! (Brouepub)
Plateau-Mont-Royal. Incredible microbrewery in the heart of Mile End/Plateau, known for pilsners, pale ales, and inventive sours like tamarind gose and cherry wheat.
Vin Papillon
Plateau-Mont-Royal. Wine bar that requires a meal with your drink—sandwiches count—thanks to Quebec’s licensing laws. Fantastic small plates and natural wines.
Breweries
Mile End
Downtown
Play & See
Mount Royal Park
Walk or bike up to the Chalet for panoramic city views.
Old Port (Vieux-Port)
Historic waterfront with shops, food stalls, and seasonal activities like the Ferris wheel.
Museum of Fine Arts (MBAM)
World-class exhibitions and a great collection of Canadian and international art.
Saint Joseph’s Oratory
Inspired basilica atop Mount Royal—peaceful gardens and stunning architecture.
Jean-Talon Market
Vibrant market in Little Italy featuring produce, cheese, meats, and prepared foods.