The Best New Restaurants in Montreal [October 2024]
The best new restaurants in Montreal right now clock in at a total of 33 names that include social clubs, French-Indo dining, cocktails and tapas, and more.
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With the arrival of the fall season, the best new restaurants in Montreal have cooled down to a low simmer. There remains, however, lots to discover as always: The ebb and flow of closures, novel openings, second locations, and revamped concepts will never stop in a city as hungry as ours.
With this list, adventurous folk like yourself who are looking for the next big thing can track where you should be eating right now. Take stock of who’s bringing something new to Montreal’s collective table: We've social clubs, hybrid restaurants, cocktail-forward snack spots, fusion concepts, and more. The selection remains strong, thanks to a league of established chefs and up-and-comers on the scene.
Take note that the Saturday taco alleyway operation @terrazaluz.mtl from chef Juan Lopez-Luna of Alma and Tinc Set fame continues this month—at least until it's too cold to chop up al pastor.
We always keep this list fresh, with no opening more than six months old, so consider this your last chance to check out openings dating back to May 2024: Beigne Habitude, Hof Sucrée, Le 9e's Restaurant Île-de-France, Claire Jacques, and Máti.
Not sure about our picks? Take a deeper dive into what they're cooking with our resident restaurant and bar critic Bottomless Pete.
Rendez-Vous
309-C Chem. du Bord-du-Lac-Lakeshore
Pointe-Claire's Rendez-Vous combines the casual allure of Parisian caves à manger with a restaurant-forward twist, crafted by co-owners Max Ruiz Lang, Peter Mant, Phil Allard, chef Liam Barron, and Renaud Lambert.
The intimate space, designed in-house, orbits an open kitchen where Barron cooks up an evolving menu of small plates that pull from a range of international influence: From Sardinian clams and pasta to slow-cooked pork shoulder, the kitchen's offerings focus on being both comforting and inventive. The wine list balances approachability with vibrant selections, making each glass and bottle thoughtfully curated yet effortlessly casual.
Héritaj x Le Passé Composé
The Sandhu family quickly followed up on their opening of Mlle Rosa earlier this year with this new spot, Héritaj, an upscale Indo-French fusion restaurant in Old Montreal. If that concept isn't unique enough on its own, the restaurant also houses chef Arnaud Glay's brunch restaurant Le Passé Composé following a move out of the Village.
That translates to a hybrid restaurant, where nights will house Héritaj's menus with options like scallops with korma sauce, beef tataki with gremolata, fried tandoori panko chicken, duck breast with maple and coriander, Quebec lamb rack with biryani spices, and Indian-style gratin dauphinois. Then there are the daytime-to-late-afternoon brunches of LPC with likes of tartines, Montreal bagels with gravlax, French toast fries, and LOTS of eggs Benedict.
The two concepts share a 5,500-square-foot space designed by Pero Studio that mixes touches of "French elegance (and) India’s vibrant energy"; versatile is a way that allows the restaurant to move from Glay's brunches into the dinners at night.
Barrelmans
A new concept opening on the second floor of Pub-Saint-Pierre (hence the shared address), Barrelmans is a cocktail and tapas bar that's taking full advantage of its prime real estate in the Old Port.
Offering an alternative to the more nightlife-forward options in the area, this spot's focusing on calm and collected menus of classic and original cocktails that go with more light eating than the downstairs neighbour: Think things like oysters, tartares, a ricotta baba ganoush mezze with roasted chickpeas, and a 'thousand layer' potato tart.
El Pacifico
El Pacífico in Hochelaga aims to introduce the flavours of northern Mexico to Montreal. Building on the foundation built by its owners from La Gaviota and Tacos Tin Tan, this restaurant focuses on coastal cuisine, particularly dishes from cities like Mazatlán. Expect to see seafood options such as ceviche and aguachile, highlighting fresh fish and shrimp. Tacos like carne asada and al pastor will also be on the menu. The drinks menu features familiar Mexican cocktails like micheladas and margaritas for a relaxed, cantina-inspired vibe.
MAKAŌ
"Where East meets West": That's this new spot in Chinatown, MAKAŌ. Combining Asian traditions with Western influences in a contemporary setting is by no means a totally radical concept for Montreal, and the proof of concept lies in a menu featuring a mix of dishes like red snapper ceviche, lamb chops with romesco sauce, and Shandong noodles. The cocktail bar adds to the mix (pun intended), with drinks like the Tokyo Ghost and the Paloma more than the average two-step options. They've opted for a tropical-inspired atmosphere as well, and together, it's positioned itself as a spot for diners seeking something different from the usual Chinatown fare.
Bernie's Pizza & Martini Bar
The West Island is now home to Bernie's Pizza & Martini Bar, serving tavern-style pizza (circular pies with thin crust, cut into tiny squares, sometimes referred to as a 'party cut') with a martini bar.
In any case, this spot's inviting with familiar comforts and upscale twists, making it just as good for a family dinner as it is for a night out. Headed by Jordan Biberkraut of Hang Time Pizza and Pigeon Café, the menu is all about pizzas both classic and not, topped with options like wild mushrooms and truffle, or hot Italian sausage. Chicken sliders and a long martini list round out what can go on the table.
Polari
Polari's a newly opened natural wine bar in Villeray, the latest venture from Montreal wine expert Keaton Ritchie, Émile Foucher, and Asa Perlman. Housed in a former garage, it's a nod to the Parisian cave à manger way of doing things with an intimate and relaxed counter-service experience where guests order at the bar and grab a seat either at one of eight bar seats or a spot at their handful of communal tables.
The wine list, curated by Ritchie, is a personal one that focuses on natural wines from both local and international producers. Zero-proof options lean towards curios like honey and sea salt soda and drip coffee. Food is straightforward but maintains refinement with around ten items that emphasize high-quality ingredients both local and sources like tinned fish, seasonal cruditée, and Quebec cheeses.
Perogie Lili
Founder Nestor Lewyckyj, driven by a desire to bring authentic Ukrainian flavors to Montreal, opened Perogie Lili's cozy Mile End eatery with their partner Greg Bedik. The menu's an homage to tradition, with classic perogies of potato and cheese are served alongside sour cherry options. This spot represents a commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage, but there's some culinary creativity at play here too—that 'Montreal factor'.
With its 1950s-inspired tin ceilings and aluminum accents, a mural of Ukraine’s seasonal cycles, and tributes paid to Ukrainian immigrants who made Canada their home after World War II, it's a spot that's quickly captured a lot of attention.
Pavillon
1201 Saint-Laurent Boulevard (3rd floor)
Pavillon is the latest revamp to the Société des arts technologiques (SAT), reimagining the former Labo culinaire with a fresh approach that aligns with SAT’s cultural mission. Helmed by Chef Maxime Latapie, the menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes that prioritize quality and simplicity, complemented by natural wines, classic cocktails, and local microbrewery selections—and it's all exceptionally well-priced.
The ambiance, crafted by Marie-Laurence Tailleur Tremblay, blends the building’s brutalist architecture with warm, inviting elements like a U-shaped bar, vibrant banquettes, and ethereal lighting. This space maintains access to the SAT's amazing rooftop terrasse with great city views, best enjoyed during their DJ performances. Operating as a nonprofit within a cultural institution, Pavillon channels its earnings back into supporting SAT’s artists and researchers, making each meal a contribution to Montreal’s creative community.
Le Fou Fou
5050 Chem. de la Côte-de-Liesse (Le Royalmount)
Le Fou Fou, set to open at Royalmount in September, presents a food hall concept to Montrealers in a whopping 30,000+ square-foot space developed by David Haas in partnership with Carbonleo and LemayMichaud: 12 distinct dining venues and four bars, with an indoor-outdoor setup that can host more than 900 guests.
The lineup features a variety of offerings, from the refined dishes of James Beard Award winner Tony Messina, known for his work at Uni Boston, to the familiar flavors of Montreal’s Lenny Lighter and Jonathan Dresner, who are collaborating on a unique project that brings together the legacies of Moishes and Notre Boeuf de Grace. The Torres brothers, known for Hogar Steakhouse, add to the mix with their own take on high-quality meats, while Hanhak Kim of Bar Otto fame introduces a contemporary twist on traditional dishes and Eva's will bring all-day brunch. More names keeping coming, too: Il Miglio, Spirulina, and Tiramisu are in the mix.
Le Fou Fou aims to simplify the dining experience with a system that allows for easy ordering and payment, reducing the need for traditional queues.
Junco
An anticipated opening this September near Frontenac station, Junco is positioned on Place Montgomery as a new spot designed to be versatile space and adaptable to the rhythms of the day. In the morning, it'll welcome early risers with coffee and gourmet sandwiches, and as the day progresses it will transition into a practical lunch spot before embracing a Mediterranean-inspired evening vibe complete with Italian beers and cocktails.
What's more, Junco will be joined by its sister restaurant Éléonore across the street in October.
Buvette Nicole
Situated on Saint-Paul Street in Old Montreal, Buvette Nicole looks to thoughtfully interpret the French bistro experience. The menu balances classic and contemporary takes on the source material with dishes like beef tartare with truffle aioli, grilled octopus with a orange-mango salsa, and racks of lamb. The decor pays some homage to the elegance of Parisian cafes, and that means it's geared towards both leisurely meals and special occasions. There's also an array of natural wines, classic cocktails, and local microbrews to complement the menu.
Envy
Opened on August 28 in Pointe-Claire, Envy is a new spot that offers a refined yet approachable take on market cuisine with some subtle Italian influences. The menu reflects local ingredients prepared in ways that highlight both the traditional and the contemporary. Diners can expect an experience that balances familiarity with a touch of the unexpected, all within a space designed to be welcoming yet sophisticated: Located on Boulevard Brunswick, the restaurant aims to cater to a broad range of tastes, with a straightforward culinary approach, focusing on quality and flavor without excessive embellishment.
Nöam
Nöam, which opened its doors on August 6th in Côte-des-Neiges, has quickly established itself as a reliable choice for those seeking kosher dining with a touch of variety. The menu spans a broad range of offerings, from crispy pizzas and pasta to salads and smoothies. This selection's eclectic, yes, but they're making sure there's something for everyone by catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Despite the lively setting, the service is notably efficient, allowing for a pleasant dining experience without unnecessary delays. Observing the Sabbath, Nöam adjusts its hours on Fridays and Saturdays according to sunset.
Terroirs
2600 Rue William-Tremblay #120
Located in the Shop Angus area, Terroirs focuses on showcasing the richness of Quebec’s local products and producers. The restaurant offers a menu that reflects a deep connection to the region's agricultural heritage, featuring dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients. From carefully prepared vegetables to hearty mains like duck breast with beets and red fruits, each dish is made to celebrate local flavors with an honest, straightforward approach. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a thoughtful design that brings a touch of nature indoors, as seen in the greenery that intertwines with the restaurant’s modern architecture. The setting is casual yet refined, making it a comfortable spot for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Fuwa Fuwa
1440 Sainte-Catherine Street West
Fuwa Fuwa Pancakes has made its way to downtown Montreal with light and airy soufflé pancakes. Originating in Japan and brought to North America in 2018, these pancakes are known for their soft, bouncy texture and light sweetness.
The menu at Fuwa Fuwa is diverse, featuring over 15 varieties of pancakes ranging from sweet to savory, alongside croffles and other desserts. Fresh fruits and house-made sauces top it all, offering a balanced and not overly sweet experience.
Mama C
Mama C—named in tribute to Cristina, the mother of the restaurant’s four founders—was established on August 27 in Old Montreal. It offers a thoughtful approach to Greek cuisine with modern takes. The menu, crafted by chef Michalis Merzenis and chef Anastasios Roussis, draws inspiration from the freshness of the Greek islands and the warmth of the mainland, bringing together high-quality seafood, meats, and locally sourced ingredients.
With dishes like spanakopita salad and velvety tzatziki, the offerings reflect a deep respect for Greek culinary traditions while introducing contemporary techniques and flavors. The concept is rooted in sharing, making each meal a communal experience for some good ol' fashioned Mediterranean dining.
Laflouf
Laflouf is a new ghost kitchen that specializes in Lebanese grilled sandwiches, offering limited dine-in options for those who prefer to enjoy on-site. The menu highlights classic Lebanese flavors, featuring shawarma, kafta, and zaatar wraps.
Each wrap is made using homemade flatbread, filled with marinated meats or seasoned fillings, and topped with fresh vegetables and sauces. In addition to the wraps, Laflouf's been said to put a 'Lebanese spin' on their poutine.
SEA ME
SEA ME in downtown Montreal is billed as a modern interpretation of Italian coastal cuisine. In addition to options like bluefin tuna crudo and Mediterranean sea bass, the restaurant’s offerings include a variety of pastas such as lobster-infused gnocchetti and mushroom risotto. While the food is the centerpiece, the atmosphere complements the dining with a contemporary design and attentive service guests have been more than pleased with to date.
Pizzeria Angry Paesano
Angry Paesano's a recent addition to Griffintown, bringing Italian street food to Montreal with a straightforward menu. Known for their pizza al portafoglio—an Italian classic where cooked pizza is folded two times—this spot offers a taste of Naples in a convenient, portable form. The menu also features items like cacio e pepe arancini and pistachio bomboloni.
Born out of the pandemic, Angry Paesano initially gained attention for its handmade Neapolitan-style frozen pizzas, which quickly became a favorite among those seeking Italian eats at home. The success of these pizzas paved the way for the opening of their spot.
Palomino
Knox Tavern in Pointe-Saint-Charles has birthed a new project in the form of the neighbourhood slice shop Palomino, located right around the corner from the longstanding bar. It's fueling Knox's lunch services as well. Beer, wine, and al taglio-style pizza are the focus here, the last of which comes with options like an upside-down margarita, spinach & ricotta, or a vegan blanco potato option.
Bertha's Rôtisserie
Bertha’s is the latest venture from the Montreal-based Provisions group, known for their principal spot's work as well as spots like Le Petit Italien and Bar Dominion.
Named after owner Pablo Rojas’ Peruvian grandmother, the rotisserie offers a menu inspired by traditional Peruvian cuisine, featuring charcoal-grilled chicken, yuca fries, lime, and aji verde sauce. Dishes range from a quarter thigh to a whole chicken, and include sandwiches, meal salads, soups, and bowls, all paired with Inca Cola. The interior reflects the owner’s heritage, with colorful walls and market-inspired decor.
Located next to Provisions in Outremont, Bertha’s offers takeout and a small patio. Priced around $15, it caters to locals seeking affordable, flavorful meals.
Le Château Maneki
The team from Maneki Comptoir Asiat in Hochelaga has launched Château Maneki, a new Japanese snack bar located in the restored pink and blue Châteaubriand creamery off Highway 40.
Friends since high school, Kevin Lee, Michael Chan, Mandy Zeng, and Michael Tran, brought a dream of theirs to life with this nostalgic venue: The menu's got a lot going on, from flambéed oshizushi, jalapeño salmon donburi, and delicious mocktails to delectable tartars and bowls, plus gluten-free options.
To honor the building's past, they offer rotating ice cream flavors like pineapple and vanilla. Currently offering takeout and outdoor dining, Château Maneki plans to open a second-floor dining room by winter. Inspired by the Orange Julep concept, customers can order at the window and eat on the terrace, in the car park, or in their cars.
Nama Omakase
425 Avenue Viger Ouest, Suite RC0002
Nama Omakase's a new contemporary restaurant blending Japanese and French cuisine with top-tier service. Run by Carma Hospitality and chef-owner GaCong Ruan who grew up in the restaurant industry, Nama has enlisted executive chef Michael Ho, a finalist from Les Chefs!, and general manager Victor Loison, who brings Michelin-starred expertise to the table.
Designed by Guillaume Menard, the restaurant's interior is composed of elegant treatments of raw materials with its brick walls and stone columns. The menu highlights sashimi platters and seasonal dishes, and guests can choose the omakase experience or the à la carte menu. Though priced high, the quality and meticulous preparation help justify the cost, especially when paired with complementary wine and cocktail selections.
Motel Ontario
Located in Hochelaga, Motel Ontario brings together the experience of Vincent Châtelais, known for Pizzeria Heirloom and l'État-Major, with Maëlle Doguet and Nicolas Curcio-Valquenart to create a spot that joins the charge of vibrant spots in the East End. The name reflects Vincent's dream of a warm and friendly place, something that's helped along by having chef Gabrielle Girard and Maxime Perreault on the team, whose seasonal menu features dishes like crispy eggplant, beef rump tataki, salmon tartare, and fried cod bao buns.
The wine list curated by Vins Fluides includes organic and classic options with a lot available by the glass. As for cocktails by Choyce Kotori and Atci Niquay, there's a lot of signature choices. Designed by Tania Morrison, the elegant space features a glass cellar, burnt orange armchairs, brown leather benches. Nice and casual.
Le Cerf-Volant
Bistro Le Cerf-Volant's a new BYOW restaurant that's opened in Tétreaultville, offering a modern bistro experience with seasonal and local ingredients in a relaxed setting. Dishes keep you guessing, such as ris de veau, mushroom pierogies, and scallop ceviche for starters. Main courses feature options like beef ribeye, shrimp gnocchi, and duck breast, while desserts include beetroot cake and a unique butterscotch beignet. The restaurant also provides a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for those not drinking—a nice touch you don't see everywhere.
The restaurant is the latest venture of Benjamin de Châteauneuf and Matthieu Bonneau, who have made their mark on Montreal's dining scene since 2012, contributing to establishments like Le Smoking Vallée and Le Coup Monté. After opening Le Marlow and continuing innovative projects at Coup Monté, respectively, they reunited to launch this new culinary adventure, marking a fresh start for their partnership.
Katsuya
1665 Boulevard De Maisonneuve Ouest
Katsuya has just opened its first downtown Montreal location near Guy-Concordia metro, following its success in Toronto as a franchise. Known for its Japanese panko-crusted cutlets with a Korean twist, Katsuya offers a variety of katsu dishes including the original pork katsu, spicy sweet potato cheese katsu, and the highly recommended cheese balls with honey butter powder. The menu also features options like takoyaki, tartar shrimp, and an array of udon dishes such as carbonara udon and Katsuya udon.
Le Violon
Le Violon, located in the space that once housed the famed restaurant Maison Publique and has been transformed by designer Zébulon Perron and co-owner Dan Climan, has been a highly anticipated restaurant from Danny Smiles the day it was hinted at. The team, including co-executive chef Mitch Laughren and chef de cuisine Sara Raspa, brings years of collaboration from previous ventures together into one elegant spot full of veined Portuguese marble, white tablecloths, and Parisian green features that orbit Climan’s paintings. Andrew Park oversees the dining room and wine program, while Kyra Lajeunesse manages operations.
The refined menu features diverse influences, with dishes like tahini-drizzled kibbeh nayyeh, gochujang-glazed sweetbreads, and strawberry shortcakes. The evolving wine cellar and exceptional classic cocktail list complement the cuisine. It’s all a harmonious blend of exquisite food, beautiful settings, and impeccable service here.
La Spada
A new (and more carnivorous) Italian restaurant in Saint-Henri that's overtaking the spot which once housed Conceria's vegan eats, La Spada is Scott Usheroff and Steve Marcone's love letter to Rome. Importing all the love and community energy found at Marcone's NDG spot Bistro Amerigo, it's a gleaming revamp replete with a welcoming negroni bar and 80 seats for dining on a menu full of fresh pasta, cheese pull suppli, and traditional dishes like saltimbocca alla romana (a veal scaloppine, pictured below). Looking to draw on the dining pleasures found at spots like New York's Carbone and its gussied-up service, it'll be a party most nights here.
Romies
Romies is the newest spot from the owners of Arthurs Nosh Bar, one that promises to bring a sophisticated experience to Old Montreal with an 'Amercian bistro'. Set in the former Boris Bistro (read: it'll have that exceptional terrasse), the restaurant will house 80 guests indoors and another 50 outside. The kitchen's led by chefs Alexandre Cohen and Nicholas Giambattisto, along with pastry chef Leigh Roper, and is cooking up dishes like cowboy chili bacon steak, cheesy pasta, avocado shrimp cocktails, and grain-fed steaks for couples or groups. It's a lot of nostalgic goodies.
Wines are diverse with naturals and classics, cocktails are both timeless and contemporary, and its design by Annika Krausz has turned the place into one of mid-century modern and industrial chic: Think burgundy leather banquettes, wood-paneled walls, and black marble tables. Expect dinner services to start, but eventually lunches and brunches in time.
Dorsia
This is the latest venture from WITH Hospitality, the group known for spots like Ryu, Ayla, Sushi Dept, and Livi. Positioned in Old Montreal, Dorsia is a contemporary fine dining establishment that draws inspiration from the vibrant elegance of the 1980s, merging French and Italian culinary techniques. Canadian-born Chef Miles Pundsack-Poe, who boasts experience from Michelin-starred restaurants such as The Restaurant at Meadowood and Ensue, is behind the menu which features dishes like smoked burrata with fennel, hand-cut tagliatelle with local lamb ragu, and Quebec duck roasted with sea buckthorn berries.
The restaurant's design, a collaboration with Ivy Studio, marries elegance with incorporated wood millwork, marble, travertine, mirrors, and soft, indirect lighting. That said, the 100-seat venue is designed for sophisticated nights out, which is helped along by classic cocktails and a curated wine list.
Keep an eye out on this spot for when they open Bowie, a new restaurant concept located downstairs in the same building, later this summer.
Panacée
Following a successful tenure at Foxy in Griffintown, Catherine Couvet Desrosiers has finally announced the opening of Panacée, her own restaurant. Details are scant right now, but if the chef's experience is any indication, one can expect a lot of fresh and highly seasonal dishes on offer in a sleekly designed space that combines a lot of local talent. Opening on July 3, this new spot is bound to bring a lot of traffic into the Village.
Mlle Rosa
The Sandhu family—known for their work on the Montreal scene for spots like India Rosa—is embarking into relatively new territory with Mlle Rosa. It's a place that combines Indian and Indian-inspired tapas with a lot of cocktails exhibiting exoticism and flamboyance in a speakeasy-style space for 60 guests. Kevin Ramos, manager of both India Rosa Plateau and Mlle Rosa, leads the front of house alongside chef Inderjit Singh Sandhu. Not a lot of Indian restaurants go the 'modern' route the way this restaurant family goes (and excels at), so this one's equal parts worth the trip for both new flavour play in food and drink as well as pure experientialism.
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