This project from the team behind Café Parvis and Furco is arguably their first proper sit-down restaurant, and they’ve come out swinging with it: A menu of small snack, side, vegetables and desserts surround a robust, wood-fired menu that fills their sizeable dining room with the smell of woodsmoke, featuring everything from half and whole chickens to entrecôte, arctic char, and porchetta that can be doused in à volonté sauces.

Warm and simplistic in its appearance, it's a large and lively spot (pretty loud too, we’ll admit, during high traffic times) following the action of the kitchen stoking flames, which runs the length of its space downtown. Who needs a flashy place when the blossoming reputation for good and honest eats is growing so fast?

In Montreal’s Quartier des Spectacles, Bar Pamplemousse offers more than just "a twist" on the classic pub experience with a focus on local craft beers, wood-fired dishes, and a vibrant design. Opened in May 2018 by a seasoned team of restaurateurs, the bar is a laid-back yet swish spot to drink and dine without pretension.

Boasting 20 taps of carefully curated drinks ranging from beers to ciders, kombucha, and cocktails, Pamplemousse caters to a range of tastes. The food menu, anchored by a wood-fired oven brings smoky and sometimes nostalgic influences to dishes. Think seafood and braised meats alongside a whole gamut of international influences, particularly Middle Eastern and Italian.

Designed by Sarah Pelletier, the space pops with pastel tones, velvet seating, and lush greenery, making it as inviting as the fare.

On Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Cadet offers a laid-back twist on fine dining, where bold flavours and fresh ingredients meet a buzzing, unpretentious vibe. It trades formality for fun, serving up a rotating menu of shareable plates that blur the line between comfort food and culinary art. Think yellowfin tuna tartare with yuzu, charred octopus in a smoky romesco, and veggies that somehow steal the show.

Housed in a former army surplus store, Cadet’s stripped-down aesthetic—crafted by architect Gilles Maillé—pairs minimalist decor with industrial edges. The open bar invites you to linger over natural wines or a sharp cocktail while the music hums just loud enough to keep things lively. Whether you’re diving into a spread of bold plates or just grabbing a drink with friends, Cadet is where Montreal’s food scene gets its groove back.

A multi-tiered hospitality concept taking over the upper floors of Place VIlle-Marie, Hiatus has truly set itself up to do it all: An outdoor terrasse with Mediterranean raw bar dining on the 44th floor, a bar with snacks on the 45th, and a full-fledged restaurant on the floor above that (the 46th and highest in the building) cooks up Japanese and French plates with technique interplay between the two cuisines. That translates to things like ramen or nori tacos as well as foie gras tartelettes and arctic char. With ambitious interior redesigns by Sid Lee Architecture, Hiatus has among the highest and most highly-prized tables in the city when it comes to lavish dining.

Since its debut in 2011, Nora Gray has remained a standout in Montreal’s dining scene, celebrated for its Southern Italian-inspired cuisine, impeccable wine selection, and warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s an intimate, wood-lined eatery that’s we’d call a hidden gem if its reputation as a destination for indulgent meals, romantic evenings, or post-event dinners near the Bell Centre didn’t precede it.

Co-founders Emma Cardarelli and Ryan Gray, veterans of Montreal’s iconic Liverpool House, built Nora Gray out of culinary passion and an obsession with detail. Now, under the leadership of executive chef Dmetro Sinclair, the restaurant enters an exciting chapter.

The menu evolves constantly but expect expertly crafted pastas, thoughtfully prepared proteins, and vibrant seasonal vegetables. Highlights might include tender house-made ravioli, rustic pork chops with braised cabbage, or fresh crudo topped with creative garnishes. Pair these dishes with selections from the restaurant’s well-stocked wine cellar, emphasizing organic, natural, and biodynamic options.

Since its debut in March 2011, Bouillon Bilk has epitomized culinary refinement in Montreal. Mélanie Blanchette and François Nadon meld minimalist decor with innovative cuisine, creating a sublime dining experience reminiscent of Danish elegance. The menu, a testament to Nadon's creativity, features seasonal proteins paired with inventive sides, exploring a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Complementing the dishes, Bouillon Bilk curates an exceptional wine list focused on private imports in an understated yet sophisticated atmosphere. Each meal here is a deliberate fusion of simplicity and complexity, making it a cornerstone of Montreal’s gastronomic scene.

When you step into the Golden Square Mile’s Le Pois Penché, it’s as if you’ve stumbled into a classic Parisian brasserie. Sure, the brunch is legendary—where red velvet chairs and black-and-white checkered floors set the stage for classics like ham and Gruyère omelette and mascarpone-laden French toast—but don’t be fooled into thinking this place is a one-trick pony.

The dinner menu is also where the brasserie shines with the familiar comfort of French favourites. Think steak frites, rich duck confit, and indulgent. And for seafood lovers, there’s the fresh seafood platter—a towering tribute to all things oceanic.

It’s more than a place to grab brunch or dinner—it’s a space to unwind, whether at the polished bar with a perfectly crafted cocktail, on the cozy summer terrace with a glass of wine, or in the elegant private wine cellar, which feels like a tucked-away escape for special events.

After nearly 30 years, Le 9e's Restaurant Île-de-France has reopened on the 9th floor of the Eaton Centre next to the grand hall. An opulent art deco space inspired by Lady Eaton's voyages on the French Line, it was designed by architect Jacques Carlu to recreate that luxury.

Featuring a blend of French and Quebec plates with some modernized techniques, the menu combines ship-inspired dishes and Eaton's original recipes. Helmed by a team composed of Jeff Baikowitz, Marco Gucciardi, manager Andrew Whibley, culinary director Derek Dammann, executive chef Liam Hopkins and café director Dominique Jacques, it clearly took a huge amount of talent to pull this off. Highlights include tartare, breaded cod, onglet steak, and pastas by Kiera German.

The wine list emphasizes natural options, while the cocktail bar, Le French Line, handles classic cocktails done right with a few occasional creative spins. Le 9e includes the 120-seat Île de France restaurant; the Gold and Silver rooms, two additional multipurpose spaces, each with capacity of up to 20; and La Grande Salle, a venue equipped to host a wide range of events. The maximum capacity is 500 guests.

Located in the stunning Le Mount Stephen Hotel, Bar George offers an experience steeped in British tradition with a modern, Montreal twist. This grand space, with its vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, and plush seating, sets the stage for an indulgent weekend brunch. On the menu, you’ll find hearty daytime classics like the full English breakfast—complete with black pudding and mushrooms—as well as decadent options like lobster eggs Benedict and scrambled eggs with black truffle. At night, it’s all about finer meals with options like Beef Wellington and black truffle risotto.

The historic building’s lavish decor, from 300-year-old stained glass to 22-carat gold fixtures, makes every meal here feel like a special occasion. Bar George is where Montrealers and visitors alike come for a taste of British-inspired luxury, whether it’s for the food or the atmosphere.

The iconic Ritz-Carlton Montreal’s in-house restaurant Maison Boulud is a beacon of haute cuisine, blending French tradition with global inspiration and local flair. Helmed by chef Daniel Boulud and brought to life by hand-picked executive chefs over the years, this refined yet approachable restaurant has become a cornerstone of Montreal’s culinary landscape since opening in 2012.

The menu evolves with the seasons, spotlighting Quebec’s finest ingredients while showcasing Boulud’s worldly influences, honed over decades in New York, Italy, and beyond. Signature dishes, like ris de veau, tartares, and pastas share the stage with indulgent desserts. Pair your meal with selections from a meticulously curated 600-bottle wine list, or explore cocktails during a chic 5 à 7 at the bar.

Designed by Japanese firm Super Potato, the space has understated luxury with natural woods, bronze accents, and a cozy central fireplace. In warmer months, the adjoining veranda provides a magical setting with views of the Ritz’s gardens and famous duck pond. For intimate gatherings, Maison Boulud offers private and semi-private dining rooms, perfect for celebrations or quiet business lunches.

Perched on Place Ville-Marie's 45th floor, Sora 45 is a project from the team behind Hiatus that takes over its more informal bar space below their supremely high-class restaurant. With stunning skyline vistas and delectable sushi in a chic setting, what was originally intended as a café and lounge for Hiatus has been reimagined with the help of chef Gary Durand and Hiatus chef Yoann Therer. Together, they've curated a menu of sushi and hot dishes complemented by selections by mixologists Carl Charette-Kelada and Tim Robertson.

Open for lunch and dinner, it's far easier to drop in for a bite here than at Hiatus: Stop in and grab platters of maki, nigiri, hosomaki, and bowls of chirashi by day, or a longer list of more elaborate sushi and dishes by night that'll range from eight-hour braised pork-belly and beef sirloin marinated in koji to seasoned chicken tsukune meatballs.

By day it shifts gears to Sora Café, a specialty coffee bar that trades late-night drinks for expertly crafted espresso and tea, offering a refined caffeine fix with a panoramic city backdrop. Enjoy a quick espresso or a slow sip while taking in the skyline, whatever the weather.

The Four Seasons Hotel Montreal’s in-house restaurant MARCUS fuses luxury with local flair on an expansive third floor designed by Atelier Zébulon Perron. This communal space welcomes both locals and guests, where the lounge, bar, restaurant, and terrasse offer distinct atmospheres, from an oceanic lounge to a forest-like bar. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Marcus Samuelsson with executive chef Jason Morris, the venue reflects Montreal's vibrant social scene. Morris, known for his precision and creativity, ensures each dish from the globally inspired menu complements the sophisticated, timeless setting, making MARCUS a culinary landmark in the city.

“The best chefs and restaurants in the city under one roof”—that’s the guiding concept which built the original food hall from the Time Out Group in Lisbon, Portugal, and it’s this winning concept that’s created Montreal’s very own in the Centre Eaton de Montréal. It’s a 40,000-square-foot culinary and cultural destination with 16 food concepts, three bars, and a mocktail station for refreshments you need to try once in your lifetime.

Kamúy is chef Paul Toussaint’s broadest statement yet—less a single-island portrait than a shared Caribbean table set in the middle of the Quartier des Spectacles. The cooking moves across borders, pulling from Haitian, Antillean, and Latin traditions, then grounding them in Quebec ingredients and fine-dining technique. The menu leans toward small plates built for passing and tasting: accras, jerk-spiced seafood, bright salads, and mains that balance smoke, heat, and sweetness without crowding the palate. The room mirrors the food’s energy, with music, colour, and artwork evoking the bustle of an open-air market rather than a formal dining room. Cocktails, heavy on rum, mezcal, and tropical aromatics, keep pace. Kamúy works best as a gathering place—pre-show, long dinner, or anything in between—where culture, food, and rhythm share equal billing.

Few restaurants in Montreal have managed longevity without softening their edges, but Ferreira Café has done exactly that. Opened in the mid-1990s by Carlos Ferreira and now guided alongside his daughters Sandra and Claudia, the restaurant remains a reference point for Portuguese cooking in the city—especially when it comes to seafood. Fish is treated with confidence and restraint, often simply grilled, while signature dishes like carabinero shrimp and seafood rice speak to a kitchen that values clarity over reinvention. The room mirrors that philosophy: azulejo-lined bar, warm wood, and a downtown polish that still feels lived-in. In the kitchen, chef Natalia Machado Villaverde keeps the focus squarely on execution.

Chifa brings Montreal a taste of Peru’s iconic Chinese-Peruvian chifa cuisine, crafted by chef Marcel Larrea and co-owner David Dumay. Located next to their popular Nikkei spot, Tiradito, Chifa is a celebration of Larrea’s youth, designed to enjoy rich, shared plates.

The menu is thoughtfully pared down to a dozen tapas-style dishes that reinterpret chifa classics. Expect elevated versions of arroz chaufa and lomo saltado, each dish balancing bold comfort with a touch of freshness. Cocktails reflect this fusion, with inventive picks like the “Senchuwal,” a margarita spin with Chinese tea.

Designers Sarah Pelletier and David Schmidt have crafted a modern space with Incan-inspired decor, a long open bar, and intimate lighting. With room for 60, Chifa is set to charm Montreal’s downtown with its vibrant flavours, artful cocktails, and laid-back atmosphere.

Tiradito is a Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei bar that’s made waves with its lively vibe and unforgettable menu. The brainchild of David Schmidt, Marcel Olivier Larrea, David Dumay, and Sébastien Jacques, Tiradito centres on a 60-seat bar where guests can watch every culinary move, turning dining into a performance.

The design—crafted by Schmidt—pairs turquoise accents with warm wood beams and lush greenery, giving the space an inviting, laid-back feel. Chef Larrea’s menu is a colourful, spicy Nikkei fusion of Peruvian and Japanese traditions, featuring shareable plates like pescado, verduras, and carne. Cocktails like the Chilcano and Pisco Sour bring fresh Peruvian flair to the bar, alongside local beers and a smart wine selection.

A project from the Italian sandwich runaway hit Bossa and its chef Daniel Lo Manto, Bella Sandwicheria sprung from those roots with a bit more of a delicate touch than its forebearer. Located in the Le Cathcart food hall on the ground floor of Place Ville Marie, toppings are less traditional in a lot of ways, featuring things like pistachio pesto, stracciatella, mortadella, arugula and lemon vinaigrette or truffles and mushrooms, fennel salami, and truffle pecorino. Opening up some new flavour pathways for the chef, this one's got a lot going for it.

Neotokyo is where cyberpunk-inspired ramen culture is found, full stop. With a bold aesthetic straight out of Blade Runner or Akira, this noodle bar, helmed by restaurateur Yann Levy, blends gritty sci-fi vibes with exceptional food. Neon lights, graffiti, and industrial textures set the mood in a dining space that feels like a futuristic alleyway diner.

The menu, crafted in collaboration with renowned ramen master Shigetoshi Nakamura, keeps things focused but creative. Diners can choose from classics like rich tonkotsu ramen, a truffle miso vegetarian option, or inventive mazemen like the Taiwanese-inspired Mazesoba or the carbonara option. Sides such as spicy karaage and gyoza round out the offerings, with an Asahi-yuzu beer cocktail for the perfect pairing.

Neotokyo isn’t just about the food—it’s an immersive experience designed to linger in. Whether you’re after an unconventional ramen night or simply curious to step into a cyberpunk vision, this spot promises an experience like no other.

Jerome Ferrer’s Saint-Hubert restaurant offers a culinary journey that merges artistry and the essence of Quebec’s terroir. Located in the Plaza district, this fine dining establishment showcases the talent of Chef Jérôme Ferrer, a Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef and recipient of numerous accolades, including recognition from the Order of Canada. The multi-course menu is a love letter to Canadian ingredients, presenting dishes like Gaspésie lobster cooked three ways and Appalachian red deer paired with bold accompaniments.

Ferrer’s meticulous approach brings together heritage and innovation, from the Inuit-inspired seal cushion hors d’œuvre to maple-themed desserts that evoke childhood nostalgia. Each dish is crafted with locally sourced, seasonal products, celebrating Quebec’s landscapes and producers.

The wine pairings, curated with precision, further elevate the experience. Whether indulging in a nine- or eleven-course tasting menu, diners are promised a sensory and emotional journey that blurs the line between gastronomy and theatre.

This is where Arthurs, one of Montreal’s most beloved Jewish food spots, has taken its famed comfort food downtown at Le Cathcart in Place Ville Marie. It's where the city core crowd can savour the Saint-Henri classic’s most popular dishes: Expect to see their legendary McArthur sandwich (crispy chicken schnitzel), the vibrant latke smorgasbord (with smoked salmon, soft scrambled eggs, and challah), and their fluffy cottage cheese pancakes. They’ve also debuted a new babka and ice cream creation here.

Unlike their original spot, this Le Cathcart address—located in the space previously occupied by brasserie Mirabel—offers 90 seats and weekday service only. For the first time ever, Arthurs takes reservations here, a blessing for fans who’ve long endured the weekend lineups at the Notre-Dame location.

A block from Concordia University, Patty Slaps is a fresh take on the smash burger. With their perfectly crispy AAA Canadian beef patties, a homemade pretzel bun by Gandom Bakery, and toppings like truffle oil mayo and mushrooms, this spot delivers big flavour in every bite.

The fries here hold their own too—golden, crispy, and just the right amount to pair with your burger, alongside house-made dipping sauces. We’re down with the black pepper-forward poutine, as well. All this is offered in a laid-back yet detail-driven space where quality doesn’t play second fiddle to speed.Pair it all with a cold beer from La Knowlton Co. or a soft drink, and you’re good to go. This is fast food, elevated.

Il Focolaio has been a staple of downtown Montreal’s pizza scene since 1984, known for its wood-fired pizzas that meld Italian tradition with Montreal’s diverse tastes. With over 80 unique pizzas on the menu, Il Focolaio has something for every palate—from classic Italian toppings to more inventive twists, all served on a perfectly crisp thin crust. Whether you’re after something simple like the Margherita or one of their hearty, fully loaded options, each pie is crafted with extra virgin olive oil, fresh tomato sauce, and daily-made dough.

Located just steps from Phillips Square, Il Focolaio’s summer terrace is a prime spot for people-watching while enjoying a slice and a glass of wine. Its decades-long reputation as a downtown favourite is well-earned.

A revival of an iconic Montreal gentleman’s club, Beaver Hall blends the charm of a traditional French brasserie with the flair and finesse of modern dining. Tucked inside what was once Europea’s cocktail lounge, this wood-panelled space now serves as a stage for chef Rémy Perez’s refined table d’hôte offerings. For lunch or dinner, diners are treated to a series of imaginative amuse-bouches and meticulously crafted dishes that pay homage to French steakhouse classics.

The warm, intimate setting combines timeless elegance with a contemporary twist, while the dramatic presentation of dishes elevates the experience. Whether for a midday indulgence or a decadent evening, Beaver Hall manages to channel its storied past while catering to Montreal’s taste for innovation and elegance.

Billy K’s keeps things simple with a menu that focuses on fast food staples: AAA Angus smash burgers, hand-cut fries, hot dogs, wraps, and poutines. Their signature sauce is a standout addition, often requested as a dip for fries, onion rings, or wraps.

Originally from Cornwall, Billy K’s has grown while staying consistent with its straightforward approach to casual dining. Open daily with dine-in options, it’s a spot where familiar favourites take the lead.

Sometimes all you want is just a solid burger and poutine, no?

Buvette SAT is a revamp to the Société des arts technologiques (SAT), reimagining the former Labo culinaire with a fresh approach that aligns with its host'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.

The Montreal Pool Room’s a century-old institution that holds a special place in Montreal's culinary history. Founded in 1912 by Bulgarian immigrant Filipoff Dakov, it has evolved over the years, and remains a beloved spot for locals. Originally known for its steamies, the menu’s expanded to include fries, poutines, hamburgers, and more. This iconic greasy spoon’s seen a lot of faces over the years, from Leonard Cohen to Al Capone, serving up classic Quebecois snacks to them all—it’s a must-visit for those craving a taste of nostalgia.

Situated in Montreal’s Golden Square Mile, Le Renoir seamlessly blends the elegance of French gastronomy with the vibrancy of local flavours and international influences. With critically acclaimed Chef Olivier Perret at the helm, the restaurant has earned two prestigious “Toques” from Gault & Millau and is celebrated as one of Montreal’s top hotel dining experiences.

Chef Perret, originally from Burgundy, France, brings a deep appreciation for seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to every plate. His expertise, shaped by years of working at renowned restaurants in France and Sofitel locations across North America, is evident in menus that are both inventive and rooted in tradition. Pastry Chef Paul Peyrat complements this vision with stunning desserts that elevate the dining experience further.

At the crossroads of Sainte-Catherine Street and Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Le Central offers its own version of the food hall experience with a combo of Montreal’s gastronomic heritage and global flavours in a sprawling street-style spot. At 20,000-square-feet, it houses 25 kiosks, each offering its own story, from Laotian-inspired dishes at Thip Thip to the rich, comforting ramen of Miso Ya, and the signature Neapolitan pizzas at Heirloom, the variety is relatively unmatched.

More than just food, Le Central embodies the energy of the Quartier des Spectacles. Designed by Guillaume Sasseville with striking contributions from Lambert et Fils, the space marries vibrant chaos with thoughtful organization. Grab a quick bite near the entrance or lose track of time exploring the deeper corners with their communal benches and eye-catching decor.

No reservations. Just show up hungry.