Megan Verdone's favourite bars and restaurants in Montreal

Le Violon, located in the space which 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 shortcake. 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.

Back when we got in touch with the chef running the show of this new spot in Villeray, Charles-Tristan Prévost, we were told that while Casavant is a proper French brasserie, it’s very much meant to be the kind of place you could roll through in shorts in the summer. That means this place from vinvinvin alumni and other industry vets is making a point of keeping things fun and casual while upholding quality. In a slicky designed place by MRDK, the kitchen churns out classics like tartare, tartes Provençale, chanterelle risotto, and more thatès carefully with wines from owner Matisse Deslauriersès wine import agency, À Boire Debout, which pulls in bottles from Italy and France with a bit of the States, Spain and Germany as well.

Pichai doesn’t trade in crowd-pleasing Thai clichés. Instead, it pushes north—specifically toward Isaan—where heat, acidity, and texture do the heavy lifting. From the team behind Pumpui, the kitchen turns out food that’s direct and uncompromising: fried fish balls slicked in sweet chilli, duck laab studded with duck hearts, and a rotating slate of specials that reward repeat visits. Those might veer toward firefly squid with nam jim talay or grilled offal finished with sharp, herb-forward relishes. Everything is built for sharing, and everything lands with intent. The room hums with energy—tight, boisterous, unfussy—backed by a low-intervention wine list that understands spice.

Led by chef Michel Lim and partner Michel Nguyen, Mange Dans Mon Hood unapologetically channels In-N-Out vibes with caramelized smash burgers with paper-thin patties, ground daily in-house. It’s not just about the burgers, though. The menu keeps it simple, and that’s the beauty: just two burgers—the Cali, packed with MDMH sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and the Happy, a nostalgic nod to McDonald’s cheeseburgers. The crispy, beef-fat fried shoestring fries are a must, especially in the form of Ol’ Dirty Fries—an unholy pile of fries, pickles, cheese sauce, and their signature MDMH burger sauce. The poutine’s a banger, too.

Nestled in a semi-basement on Park Avenue, Double's Late Night embodies a contemporary dive bar ethos on the Mile End scene. It’s a great place to unwind over drinks, games, and bites. The decor, with traditional dive bar elements infused with modern twists, features a long bar, pool table, and TVs broadcasting sports. Chef Danny Smiles’ simple menu highlights signature burgers, onion rings, fish and chips, and a revolving set of other delicious options (oftentimes Italian) when his mood strikes.

Since 1942, Beauty’s Luncheonette has been a beloved staple in Montreal’s Plateau, serving up hearty, Jewish-inspired breakfast and lunch fare in a retro 50s diner setting. Founded by Hymie Sckolnick and his wife Freda, this iconic spot has remained true to its roots, with little change to its classic menu or timeless décor. Famous for its signature dishes like the “Beauty’s Special”—a St-Viateur bagel piled high with cream cheese, smoked salmon, tomato, and onion—and the legendary “Mish-Mash” omelette loaded with salami, hot dogs, peppers, and onions, Beauty’s continues to attract crowds.

Today, run by the second and third generations of the Sckolnick family, Beauty’s retains its old-school charm, complete with vintage blue booths and aluminium accents. It’s a Montreal institution that never disappoints.

Tucked away off Parc Avenue in Mile Ex, Bar Cicchetti brings Venetian charm to Montreal with its focus on cicchetti—small, delightful Venetian snacks—and a curated selection of wines, including macerated vintages. Opened by Elyse Leclerc, Gabriel Lavallée, and Mathieu Delisle, the bar offers a cozy, low-lit atmosphere with a design by architects Julia Manasas and Maxime Lefebvre. Enjoy a vibrant terrace in warmer months and a menu of fresh, seasonal bites on the cheap. With a mix of organic and biodynamic wines, creative cocktails, and a welcoming ambiance, Bar Cicchetti is perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and snacks.

One of the few spots that’s so recognized for its food some would argue it’s barely even a dep. Le Pick-Up brings a bodega-style spot to Montreal complete with swivelling stools and outdoor diner tables regularly stacked with clientele. Try the cubanos, chipotle chicken clubs, those grilled halloumi and pulled pork sandwiches everyone orders, burgers, all-day breakfast—and always pull a bottle out of the fridges to go with it.

Since opening in 2018, Moccione has settled into Villeray like a place that was always meant to be there with an intimate room, steady energy, and a deliberately tight menu built around a handful of starters, a few pastas, and a rotating mix of meat and fish that changes with the seasons. In the kitchen, co-owner Luca Cianciulli keeps things anchored in Italian tradition, with house-made pasta as the backbone and no interest in overcomplicating plates that already work. Gnocchi, ragù, and carpaccio show up often for a reason. Out front, the wine list leans thoughtful rather than flashy, favouring producers that make sense with the food. It’s a neighbourhood restaurant in the truest sense: relaxed, precise, and quietly confident in what it does well.

For a ramen experience that’s done right, Yokato Yokabai is Montreal’s go-to. Opened in 2015 by Kevin Fung—also the founder of the popular izakaya Imadake—this small, 20-seat ramen house in the Plateau brings authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu to the city. Set in a cozy, wood-panelled space with a rustic feel, Yokato Yokabai focuses solely on quality and flavour.

The secret? A broth simmered from organic pork bones over 12 hours with no MSG, yielding deep, satisfying taste. Freshly made in-house noodles, along with customizable toppings—from green onions to marinated eggs—bring each bowl to life. Try the classic pork or chicken broth, or opt for the vegetarian version. Small plates like gobo salad and karaage make for perfect add-ons. Though small and often bustling, Yokato Yokabai is well worth the wait for this level of ramen craftsmanship.

This 2015 addition to Montreal’s Plateau, founded by Kevin Fung, embodies “Ichigo Ichie”—a Japanese phrase meaning “this time only,” urging diners to cherish each moment. The menu reflects this sentiment, offering a blend of Japanese dishes with a local twist, from sashimi with Quebec influences to classic yakitori and crispy tempura, all made without MSG and using organic ingredients.

The thoughtfully designed space by Michel Prete mixes traditional elements like wood and stone with modern, vibrant touches. Diners can explore the varied menu, featuring cold starters like daikon salad and yuzu tuna tataki, hot plates such as pork shoulder with apple miso butter, and the ever-popular takoyaki. Complementing the food is an impressive list of cocktails and sakes, including a refreshing Japanese sangria and inventive G&Ts.

Opened in 1932, Wilensky’s Light Lunch is a cherished landmark in Mile End, beloved for its “Wilensky Special.” This iconic sandwich—beef salami and bologna on a Kaiser roll, pressed with mustard and never cut in half—has become part of the city’s culinary fabric. Co-owner Sharon Wilensky, daughter of founder Moe Wilensky, maintains the family’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.

Stepping inside Wilensky’s is like a trip back in time, complete with original tin ceilings and a vintage soda fountain. Sharon and her family keep the legacy alive, mixing soda by hand and serving the same timeless sandwiches that regulars have adored for nearly a century. Wilensky’s is a must-visit experience, evoking nostalgia and classic charm with every bite.

Since 1954, Dic Ann’s has been a Montreal icon, thanks to its ultra-thin patties, toasted buns, and signature tomato-based sauce. Founded by Dominic “Dic” Potenza and Ann Collecchia, Dic Ann’s remains true to its roots, delivering straightforward burgers in a unique style that hasn’t changed in over six decades. No frills, no Coca-Cola, and no sauce on the side—it’s just burgers as Dic envisioned: fast, flavourful, and like nothing else in the city.

Dic Ann’s success is still a family affair. Potenza’s grandchildren, Delbina and Anthony, now oversee multiple franchises and a food truck, maintaining Dic’s original vision of simplicity. Each burger comes with a “soupeveur,” a wooden stick for mess-free eating—a small touch that adds to Dic Ann’s memorable experience.

Just steps from Jean-Talon Market, Le Petit Alep has earned a devoted following for its vibrant Syrian and Armenian dishes and carefully curated, affordable wine list. As a casual counterpart to Restaurant Alep, this family-run spot serves up mezze like muhammara, labneh, and shish kebab that celebrate Middle Eastern flavours with a Montreal twist.

Founded by Georges and Jacqueline Frangié in 1976 and expanded by their daughters, Le Petit Alep is infused with warmth and a dynamic family touch. Architect Jean-François Potvin’s design blends open spaces with pops of colour, creating a lively yet inviting ambiance. With an impressive 250-bottle wine list featuring sustainable options from France, Italy, and beyond, Le Petit Alep remains a vibrant gathering spot for all.

Tucked away on Rue Verville, Old Country Bakery embodies the Italian spirit in every loaf, pastry, and slice. Family-run and deeply rooted in tradition, the bakery serves a variety of Italian classics, from freshly baked breads and focaccia to thin, crispy tomato pizzas. Their made-to-order sandwiches are packed with quality ingredients, and desserts like almond cookies and cannoli have garnered a loyal following.

Unassuming yet brimming with authenticity, Old Country Bakery captures a welcoming, neighbourhood feel where quality and simplicity reign. Friendly staff, generous portions, and a homey vibe make this hidden gem well worth the visit.

On Bernard Street, Le Nouveau Palais has remained a Mile End staple for over 50 years, cherished for its welcoming, no-frills atmosphere. Originally opened as “The Palace” in 1950, this classic diner has evolved over the years, now offering comfort food with a refined twist. When current owners Jacques Séguin and Mary-Martha Campbell took over in 2010, they honoured the space’s history, retaining its charm while restoring its retro decor.

Chef Gita Seaton’s Palace Burger—a well-seasoned, juicy creation—has gained legendary status. Alongside the burger, favourites like creamy mac and cheese and matzo ball soup make Le Nouveau Palais a timeless go-to where Montrealers feel at home.

Since 1951, Lester's Deli has served its iconic smoked meat sandwiches with a dedication to tradition that has made it a well-known staple in the city. Founded by Eddy Lester, a Polish immigrant, the deli became renowned for its signature smoked meat, marinated in-house for 72 hours. The warm, retro atmosphere—complete with walls completed covered in nostalgia, decorations, and laudations, including photos of legends like Elvis and Leonard Cohen—has long been part of its charm.

In 2023, after more than 70 years in the family, Billy Berenholc, who has run the deli since his father’s time, passed the torch to restaurateur Kevin Fung. While Fung brings a new vision, expanding the Lester’s brand with ambitions for the future, the core of what makes Lester’s special remains unchanged. With Billy still involved as a consultant, the deli stays rooted in its tradition, continuing to serve some of the best smoked meat in the city.

The Bruno Sport Bar is a time capsule and testament to Montreal’s enduring tavern culture—a place where history, kitsch, and camaraderie come together in an unabashedly authentic way. Sitting unassumingly in Rosemont, this spot draws a loyal crowd who appreciate the sticky tables, vintage beer posters, and classic décor that hark back to an era long before craft cocktails and avocado toast.

From the paper-thin hot dogs to jumbo grilled cheeses, the menu is pure, no-frills tavern fare, reasonably priced to encourage a second round (or third). The beer selection may lack the trendy varieties, but it offers a comforting familiarity: pitchers of Sleeman or promotional non-alcoholic brews served without irony. This is a bar that feels wonderfully stuck in 1978.

It’s also a place where the community shines: Regulars, mostly silver-haired, gather to swap stories and enjoy simple pleasures, from free popcorn to games on the big screen. The walls are adorned with everything from sports memorabilia to a nearly ancient air conditioning unit doubling as a Loto-Québec promo board. Each visit offers a chance to spot another relic from the past, such as an oversized microwave perpetually set to nine seconds or a jumble of colourful trinkets that defy logic but add character.

Les Givrés, founded by former Bilboquet artisans Alexandre Deslauriers and Martin Maheux-Picard, began in Vieux-Rosemont and expanded to locations in Villeray and Hochelaga. Their mission is simple: create artisanal ice cream from scratch, with natural, local ingredients and zero artificial additives.

Each season, Les Givrés introduces flavours inspired by Quebec’s harvests—think maple in spring, strawberry-rhubarb in summer, and apple pie in fall. Unique creations like “Republic of Bananas” and corn-based “Épluchette de blé d’Inde” ice cream are just some of the inventive offerings. For those seeking vegan options, an oat-milk-based ice cream is available year-round.

Hoàng Oanh Bánh Mì, near Jean Talon Market, serves up one of Montreal’s best-kept secrets for a bánh mì fix. This no-frills spot might not scream for attention, but the sandwiches speak loud and clear: For less than $10, you get fresh, flavourful baguettes filled with choice cuts and that perfect touch of Maggi seasoning—an extra kick for those who crave it, easily skipped for those who don’t. The “special” version, with a bit more meat, is well worth the extra buck, delivering serious satisfaction without breaking the bank. The menu extends beyond sandwiches, offering Vietnamese snacks, sticky rice, and iced coffee that pairs well with any bite.

Since opening in 2006, Marché Hung Phat has become a top spot in Montreal for authentic Vietnamese bánh mì. What began as a small market has grown into a bustling sandwich counter, drawing a diverse crowd. At Hung Phat, house-made aioli, pickled vegetables, and fresh baguettes make for a delicious and generously portioned bánh mì experience.

Beyond sandwiches, Hung Phat offers a welcoming spot to enjoy hearty Vietnamese soups, fried rolls, and robust iced coffee, making it an ideal lunch stop near Jean-Talon Market.

Lahmajoune Villeray brings the flavours of Syria, Lebanon, and Armenia to Villeray. Housed in the former Chez Apo, this family-run bakery has quickly become a favourite, with Abdullahad Hannan and his son Charbel creating delicious lahmajoune flatbreads topped with minced beef and aromatic spices.

Alongside their signature lahmajoun, Lahmajoune Villeray serves sfiha, cheese-topped flatbreads, and a range of salads, dips, and sweets. Charbel’s mother, Haramci Lahdo, prepares homemade kibbeh and a variety of salads, including muhammara, baba ghanoush, and stuffed vine leaves. With its authentic flavours and welcoming vibe, it’s a must-visit for Middle Eastern fare.