Auberge Saint-Gabriel is more than just a restaurant; it’s a piece of living history in Old Montreal. Originally built in 1688, it was North America’s first licensed inn in 1754. Today, this historic gem—now co-owned by Swiss restaurateur Marc Bolay and Quebec singer Garou—combines rich Quebec heritage with elevated gastronomy in a setting that feels timeless. Designer Bruno Braën carefully modernized the interior, enhancing original stone walls, wood beams, and cozy fireplaces to preserve the inn’s enchanting past while creating a refined and atmospheric dining experience.

In the kitchen, seasonal menus focus on market-fresh Quebec ingredients. Classic dishes like the rotisserie-cooked chicken and Marc Bolay’s traditional Swiss fondue share the spotlight with seasonal fare, from wood-fired aged beef to inventive vegetable dishes. A curated wine list offers selections that respect the earth, including Canadian and Quebec wines that perfectly complement the menu.

The Auberge’s charm extends beyond the dining room with multiple private rooms and an inviting lounge. In warmer months, guests can dine on a terrace that’s as historic as it is picturesque. Whether for intimate dinners, private events, or just soaking in Montreal’s history over fine wine and superb food, Auberge Saint-Gabriel remains a true Montreal landmark, blending tradition with gastronomic elegance.

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.

Since 1929, Chez Ma Tante has been the beating heart of Montreal-Nord’s fast-food culture, serving humble hot dogs and fries with a kind of devotion that borders on religion. What started as a horse-drawn cart, slinging dogs to hungry passersby, evolved into the iconic, neon-lit diner we know today. And while the space grew, the formula stayed blessedly simple: All-beef dogs, crispy fries, poutine, and house-made coleslaw. Whether you’re perched at a picnic table in the summer or grabbing a quick bite from your car, this is the spot for some tradition.⬤

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.

Chalet Bar-B-Q is a piece of Montreal history. Established in 1944, this NDG haunt has earned a near-cult following for its simple, consistently mouth-watering recipe: fresh chickens, charcoal-roasted ‘til crispy and golden. Marcel Mauron, a Swiss immigrant, opened the place during WWII with a singular vision that endures today—no frills, just flawless rotisserie served with fries and a legendary, almost mysterious, gravy.

The place hasn’t changed much since the ‘40s: the knotty pine panelling and family-style booths are as much a staple as the bird itself. Devoted diners rave about the sauce, a guarded recipe that regulars dip everything into, from chicken to fries to toasted buns (we’ll never forget Derek Dammann’s recommendation of making a taco out of the bun). It’s a nostalgic, finger-licking pilgrimage here, and 80 years later, it’s still delivering the same magic.

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 1928, Schwartz’s Deli has been a cornerstone of Montreal’s food scene, famous for serving up what many consider the world’s best smoked meat. Stepping into its original Saint-Laurent Boulevard location is like walking back in time, surrounded by the charm of the Plateau and the deli’s old-school presence. Founded by Romanian immigrant Reuben Schwartz, the deli sticks to tradition, marinating their smoked meat for 10 days with a secret blend of herbs and spices, then smoking and steaming it to perfection.

The menu is as classic as it gets: smoked meat sandwiches piled high, turkey and salami options, and full plates of their famous smoked meat. For something heartier, there’s the rib steak or chicken combo, but locals swear by the poutine à la Schwartz’s as well—just so long as there’s a pickle and Cott’s Black Cherry served with it.

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.

Le Fameux is a timeless snack spot, bridging the gap between late-night eatery and lunch destination. Known for its smoked meat sandwich made with Lester’s brand cuts, some say it’s rivaling even the city's heavyweights. A hub where late-night revelers and early risers converge over gratiné-style poutine crisped up in the oven and Greek dishes like spanakopita and souvlaki alongside all-day breakfast specials, Le Fameux caters to diverse tastes. No wonder it’s cemented a status as a beloved corner diner in the Plateau for over 60 years

Fairmount Bagel, a Mile End staple since 1949, is the forerunning cherished institution in Montreal's culinary landscape. For over a century, the Shlafman family has upheld the tradition of crafting exceptional bagels, just as Isadore Shlafman did when he arrived from Russia in 1919. Today, Irwin and Rhonda Shlafman carry on the legacy, preserving the authenticity and quality that define Fairmount Bagel. From the classic poppy seed to the beloved sesame, each hand-rolled bagel reflects a commitment to tradition and taste. Step into this historic bakery, where tradition meets heart, and savor a taste of Montreal's delicious heritage.

Tucked away in Little Italy since 1956, Caffè Italia is a cherished local gem. Stepping inside feels like a journey across the Atlantic to a bygone time thanks to the preservation of its operators, the Serri family. It's a place where generations have gathered, forging bonds over steaming cups of espresso and pastries. While recent renovations aimed to preserve its essence, regulars find comfort in the familiar sights and sounds, from the bustling front table to the aromatic brews that have kept patrons coming back for decades. It’s a second home for many Italo-Montrealers.

Snowdon Deli isn't just a restaurant; it's an institution. For those in the know, it's a nostalgic trip down memory lane. For newcomers, it's a delightful discovery waiting to happen. This iconic Jewish deli, with its vibrant matzo ball soup and cheese bagelach, transports you straight to the heart of classic Miami eateries, echoing the charm of places like Wolfie’s Rascal House. Outlasting local legends like The Brown Derby and Ben’s, Snowdon Deli stands as a testament to timeless taste and tradition.

Hermas Gibeau's dream of sharing his trademark beverage, the Orange Julep, materialized in 1932 with the opening of his retail storefront on St. Laurent Boulevard. By transforming his building into the shape of an orange, he created a landmark: The largest orange sphere in the world in 1964. Over the years, Gibeau Orange Julep has become a Montreal icon drawing folks in with its nostalgic charm and famous juice. Beyond that signature drink, this spot specializes in classic diner fare like Montreal-style hot dogs, poutine and burgers, and they serve it all until 4 a.m. The weekly summer car shows add to the experience, attracting vintage car enthusiasts on Wednesdays in the warmer seasons.

A Montreal institution since 1938, La Binerie Mont-Royal has been serving up traditional Quebecois comfort food for generations. This no-frills diner is legendary for its fèves au lard (baked beans)—they churn out 32 tons per year—but the menu doesn’t stop there. Expect classics like tourtière, pâté chinois, cretons, meatloaf, and pouding chômeur as well.

Over the decades, everyone from Maurice Richard to former mayor Camilien Houde has had a seat at La Binerie’s counter, and the spot even played a role in Yves Beauchemin’s novel and film Le Matou. More recently, National Geographic recognized it for its cultural significance in preserving Quebec’s culinary heritage.

After 81 years on Mont-Royal Avenue, the restaurant relocated to Saint-Denis and Rachel, keeping the spirit of the original alive—right down to its iconic sign, now displayed indoors. The new space offers more seating (95 spots instead of 23), but nothing has changed when it comes to the food. Everything is homemade and baked—not fried—including the poutine’s oven-cooked fries.

Moishes has been a Montréal institution since 1938, and after a brief hiatus, the legendary steakhouse has returned—this time to Square-Victoria. Originally a modest Plateau sandwich shop founded by Romanian immigrant Moishe Lighter, it evolved into an upscale destination under his son Lenny, cementing its reputation for dry-aged prime rib, USDA Prime beef, and Eastern European-inspired sides.

Now under Groupe Grandio, the revived Moishes balances nostalgia with reinvention. The new space nods to its past—original chandeliers, butcher’s scales in the open kitchen—while incorporating city-inspired murals and a sleek, modern aesthetic. Signature dishes remain, from house coleslaw and dill pickles to perfectly grilled ribeyes, but the menu expands to include seasonal seafood and vegetarian options. With over 200 seats, a lavish bar, and design elements celebrating Montréal’s cultural icons, Moishes continues its 85-year legacy with a fresh perspective, proving that some classics only get better with time.

Elio Pizzeria, a mainstay in Montreal’s Petite-Patrie for over half a century, is more than just a restaurant—it’s a living legacy. Founded by Elio De Lauri in 1964, Elio’s story begins in Italy, where as a young boy he apprenticed in a bakery to help support his family. After immigrating to Montreal in 1958, Elio worked tirelessly, eventually opening his own place on Bellechasse, which has since grown from a modest four-table eatery into a bustling 400-seat landmark beloved by generations.

Known for its hearty, authentic Italian fare, Elio’s serves pizzas loaded with toppings, homemade pastas, and specialty dishes crafted from recipes that haven’t changed in decades. The pizzeria’s menu remains simple yet refined, with classic pizzas like bocconcini and prosciutto alongside signature dishes named after family members and Elio’s hometown, Candida.

Family is at the heart of Elio’s, with son Frank now managing the day-to-day operations while Elio, in his eighties, continues to supervise dough-making, and his wife, Nina, preps ingredients with meticulous care. Their dedication has shaped Elio’s into an enduring institution, where old-school hospitality meets a devotion to quality that spans generations.

Since 1947, Restaurant Greenspot has been a beloved institution in St-Henri, offering comforting Quebec diner food in a charming retro atmosphere. Originally located at the corner of Greene and Notre-Dame Ouest, it moved across the street in 1989, bringing its original 1947 decor along. Owned by Jon Pavlakos, Nick Ioannidis, Louis Stavropoulos, and Stellios Kiliaris, Greenspot is known for its extensive menu featuring over 30 variations of poutine, classic breakfasts, pizzas, and smoked meat. Chef Denis Vavougios, a kitchen legend, ensures that every dish maintains its traditional quality. With fresh, homemade ingredients and a welcoming vibe, Greenspot remains a cherished Montreal landmark.

Dic Ann’s has been doing things its own way since 1954, when Dominic “Dic” Potenza and Ann Collecchia opened the first location and started serving ultra-thin patties on toasted buns with a tomato-based sauce that still sparks debate. There’s no ketchup, no Coke, and definitely no substitutions—the menu is built around speed, consistency, and a style of burger that feels frozen in time. It’s a system, not a suggestion.

Now run by Dic and Ann’s grandchildren, Delbina and Anthony, the family business has expanded to include multiple locations and a roaming food truck, but the formula remains unchanged. Even the iconic “soupeveur”—a wooden stick used to keep the burger intact—still comes with every order. For Montrealers who grew up on it, Dic Ann’s isn’t just a burger joint—it’s a ritual. For everyone else, it’s worth trying just to see what the fuss is about.

Since 1958, Paul Patates has been at the heart of Pointe-Saint-Charles, a family-run casse-croûte that keeps things simple and classic. Known for their steamies,, this spot is also famous for its house-made spruce beer—a throwback to old Quebec traditions—and solid poutine. The retro, 1950s vibe has even attracted film crews over the years, but it’s the food that keeps people coming back. Their menu has as legendary as it is no-fuss, and it’s perfect when it comes to a true Montreal snack experience.

In Little Italy, Pizzeria Napoletana has been serving Montrealers more than just pizza since 1948—it’s been a cornerstone of community, tradition, and memory. Once a humble café for billiards and card games, it became a sanctuary for Italian immigrants, offering a taste of home in an unfamiliar land. Over decades, this family-run spot has transformed into one of Montreal’s most beloved BYOB institutions, preserving the warmth of shared meals and the simplicity of Italian cooking.

The menu stays rooted in tradition, with recipes that haven’t strayed far from their origins. You’ll find garlic knots, meatballs honouring nonna Girolamo, and Rocco’s homemade sausages, alongside a lineup of pizzas and pastas that cater to classic tastes. Whether you’re going for the signature Margherita or venturing into antipasti like burrata with artichoke cream, the flavours are grounded in the kind of nostalgia only family recipes can bring.

Since 1963, Gerry’s Delicatessen has been dishing out no-nonsense, well-executed comfort food in Hochelaga, with a particular devotion to smoked meat. A true neighbourhood spot, it’s the kind of place where the portions are generous, the prices are fair, and the regulars have been coming for decades.

The smoked meat sandwich holds its own, but twists like smoked meat spaghetti and poutines add to the appeal. Breakfast is another draw—eggs, pancakes, and home fries at wallet-friendly prices—all served in a laid-back, sports-bar-style setting, complete with TVs broadcasting games. It’s not about frills or reinventing the wheel here.

St-Viateur Bagel, a cornerstone of Montreal's bagel culture, boasts a rich heritage spanning generations. With a wood-fired oven dating back to 1957, it's more than a bakery. From the original owners to the Morena family, continuity and quality define its essence. Each bagel, hand-rolled with care, reflects a legacy of craftsmanship. The aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, inviting locals and tourists alike to indulge. Amidst the bustling ovens, warmth permeates every corner. St-Viateur Bagel isn't just a bakery; it's a testament to Montreal's enduring love affair with its iconic food.

You got the newer wave of Portuguese restaurants with sleek branding and modern menus—and then there’s Chez Doval. Open since 1974, this Plateau mainstay hasn’t changed much, and that’s the point. The wood-panelled dining room, covered in framed photos, trophies, and faint reminders of the old country, is a time capsule of Montreal’s early Portuguese scene. The menu hasn’t veered far either: charcoal-grilled chicken, grilled sardines, and hearty plates of octopus or pork, served without fanfare and priced like it’s still the ’90s. Long-time co-owners Carlos Soares and João Gonçalves keep the place running like a neighbourhood clubhouse, where regulars know the wine list by heart and lunchtime specials come with a coffee and dessert. It’s not reinventing anything—but that’s exactly why it’s beloved.

Gibbys is a Montreal dining icon, steeped in history and housed in a stunning 200-year-old stone building in Old Montreal. With fireplaces, dim lighting, and original wooden beams, the ambiance is irresistibly old-world, offering a warm, elegant setting that transports guests back in time. Known for its high-quality seafood and prime cuts of expertly aged steaks, Gibbys serves up a classic, hearty menu designed for indulgence, accompanied by a meticulously curated wine list.

Upon arrival, diners are treated to freshly baked bread, dill pickles, and crumbled bacon, setting the tone for an experience that celebrates fine food and timeless charm. Signature dishes range from chilled oysters and broiled steaks to the famed Monte Carlo potatoes, and each main course includes a refreshing lemon sorbet and a choice of sides. The attentive staff ensures that every detail of the meal is exceptional, from perfect wine pairings to impeccable service.

A Montreal institution since 1968, La Banquise beckons locals and tourists with its round-the-clock menu of over thirty poutines. Originally opened by firefighter Pierre Barsalou, it morphed into a 24-hour snack bar it is today in the '80s. Revamped in 2006, the restaurant’s now brimming with options ranging from burgers to brunches, but everyone knows that the poutine lineup is the star attraction, including straightforward classics and specialties like the T-Rex stealing the limelight in addition to more experimental options like La Panoramix that’s made with sour cream. Thriving and charming, La Banquise fosters a lively ambiance every hour of the day.

Mister Steer has been flipping its iconic Steerburger since 1958, earning its spot as a Montreal institution. Found in a prime spot on Saint-Catherine Street, this kosher burger haven is known for its fresh, never-frozen beef and its signature seasoning—a flavour that has kept generations coming back for more. The Giant Steerburger or the platter of two sliders are solid picks for those with bigger appetites, especially alongside the curly Suzy Q fries.

Mister Steer remains a downtown mainstay, attracting locals and visitors alike with its welcoming vibe and proximity to key attractions like the Bell Centre. With 60 million burgers served over six decades, it’s clear why this diner is a classic.

Cosmo’s in NDG is the stuff of legends. A small, greasy spoon squeezed between shops on Sherbrooke Street West, this Montreal institution has been slinging eggs and frying up bacon since the 1960s. If you know, you know—and the regulars certainly do. People line up, rain or shine, for their famous breakfast sandwiches, stacked with eggs, bacon, cheese, and sausage, all crammed into a buttered bun that’s toasted to perfection. It’s breakfast done dirty and right.

Inside, the vibe is pure no-frills diner. You’ve got your handful of stools, a counter worn down from decades of elbows, and a short-order kitchen where you can watch the magic happen: It’s greasy, it’s glorious, and it’s the kind of thing you’ll dream about for days after.

Cosmo’s has charm that’s hard to replicate. It’s a tiny place where strangers bond over breakfast, where the coffee keeps coming, and where the vibe is so laid-back you might just end up chatting with the cooks. It’s rough around the edges, just like Montreal, and that’s why people love it.

Open since 1929, Dilallo Burger is a living piece of Montreal history. Its Ville-Émard location has been flipping handcrafted patties for nearly a century, sticking to the same family recipe Luigi Di Lallo created for his children long before customers got their first taste. Their signature Buck Burger, served upside-down with Luigi’s signature peppers, is a time-tested classic that captures the essence of the joint’s old-school charm.

Inside, it’s a museum, with walls covered in photos of local legends that go from Canadiens great Ken Dryden to speed skater Nathalie Lambert. The Di Lallo family remains at the heart of it all, with generations keeping the tradition alive.

Café Olimpico’s got a few locations in town that are all great, but it’s original Mile End location is the one that exudes timeless charm and a rich history dating back to 1970. Founded by Italian immigrant Rocco Furfaro, it began as a haven for sports enthusiasts before evolving into the beloved neighborhood institution it is today. With its classic ambiance adorned with flags of Italian football teams and Montreal Canadiens memorabilia, Olimpico transports patrons to a bygone era. Renowned for its simple yet authentic Italian coffee and sweets, it's a gathering place where locals are welcomed like family.

Since 1959, Les Aliments Felix Mish has quietly held down its corner of Ville-Émard with a split identity: part Polish grocery, part neighbourhood deli. The shelves are packed tight with imported preserves, chocolates, and spice blends, but the real draw is what comes out of the smokehouse. Run by Ron Mish—who took over from his father Felix in the ’80s—the shop now rotates through a global selection of housemade sausages, from Greek loukaniko to spicy Mexican chorizo. Still, it’s the smoked meat sandwich that makes this place something special. No steamer, no shortcuts—just seven to ten days of marination and slow-smoking that coax a depth of flavour most delis only dream about. It’s thinner-sliced, lower-stacked, and somehow bolder than the steam-bloated versions elsewhere. Mish’s smoked meat has fed everyone from Bell Centre headliners to regulars from the pool or the skating rink down the block. No gimmicks. Just craft.

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.

Westmount’s worst-kept secret, Chez Nick has been serving up all-day breakfasts, stacked sandwiches, and classic diner fare since 1920. Tucked away on Greene Avenue, this storied eatery has outlasted decades of change while keeping its old-school charm intact.

From bacon and eggs to kale salads, the menu has evolved, but the club sandwich remains untouchable. The place has drawn everyone from politicians and rock stars to longtime regulars who practically have their own seats. Even during tough times—think the 1998 ice storm—Chez Nick stayed open, keeping the coffee hot and the neighborhood fed.

Despite its polished look, this is still a diner at heart, where loyalty runs deep and comfort food reigns supreme. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast or settling in for a long lunch, Chez Nick is the kind of place you keep coming back to—for 100 years and counting.

A Montreal institution since 1954, Le Roi du Smoked Meat has been serving up some of the city’s best smoked meat for over 70 years. Located on St-Hubert near St-Zotique, this family-run spot is known for its nostalgic vibe, with many regulars returning for both the food and the memories. The atmosphere takes you back to the 60s and 70s, making every meal feel like a trip through time.

Not just about the smoked meat, though—Le Roi also offers a hearty menu that includes souvlaki, BBQ chicken, spaghetti, and of course, poutine. With large portions, great prices, and a menu full of comfort food, this place has earned a loyal following.

If you want to taste a piece of Montreal history, this is where you start: For over 50 years, Décarie Hot Dogs has been a Montreal institution, serving up steamies, golden fries, and some of the city’s best poutine. Located in Saint-Laurent, this greasy spoon classic hasn’t changed much since 1969, and that’s exactly why locals love it. The Vriniotis family has kept the same no-frills menu for decades, aside from adding poutine in 1984—a decision that would cement its reputation as one of Montreal’s best.

Décarie’s steamies are textbook Montreal hot dogs—soft steamed buns cradling a snappy frank, topped all-dressed (mustard, onions, relish, sauerkraut—no ketchup). The fries are fresh-cut, lightly crisp, and fluffy inside, served solo or drowned in cheese curds and rich brown gravy. Simple, perfect, timeless.

Over the years, Décarie Hot Dogs has attracted politicians, pro athletes, and famous Montrealers, but its real claim to fame is how deeply it’s embedded in the city’s everyday rituals. A pit stop for working folks, families, and late-night snackers, it’s a place where the food is fast, familiar, and always satisfying.

Bagel Etc. has been fuelling Montreal mornings since the 1940s, back when it was Cookie’s Main Lunch. These days, it’s a well-worn institution on the Main where regulars squeeze into booths or take their chances with the mirror-lined bar, and Leonard Cohen’s former seat remains a quiet relic. The neon glow and Formica tables may have aged, but the breakfasts—huevos rancheros, buttery bagels, and eggs with house-made hollandaise—have stayed timeless.

It’s a spot that runs on routine. The same faces return day after day, from judges to students to parents who once sat in highchairs here themselves. On weekends, the place is packed, a low hum of conversation rising over coffee cups and plates of eggs. The menu hasn’t changed much, because it doesn’t need to—Fairmount bagels, hearty omelettes, and diner classics hold their own.

The charm is in the details. A hot sauce collection that’s as much a dare as a condiment selection. A lineup of daily specials scrawled on a board. Servers who know your order before you do. Bagel Etc. isn’t just about breakfast; it’s about the ritual of showing up, taking your seat, and being part of something bigger than just another meal.

Restaurant A.A. in Saint-Henri boasts a long-standing legacy as a beloved local diner. Owner André Annoussos and his 50+ years in the business has helped keep its old-school charm intact.

The restaurant’s got a small, narrow layout featuring a long counter and a few booths where hungry nighthawks flood in for late-night offerings including steamies, toasties, and a unique poutine recipe you can’t find elsewhere in the city—it’s all in the gravy. A steadfast fixture cherished for comforting classics and lightning-speed service, it’s an essential on any self-respecting Montrealer’s late-night eats bucket list.

Since 1962, Le Nouveau Système Beaubien has been a cornerstone of Rosemont, known for classic comfort food: poutine, burgers, and some of the best steamies around. The retro décor—jukeboxes, chrome stools, and vibrant 1960s colours—makes stepping inside feel like a trip back in time. Owned and operated by Georges Giannaras for nearly 40 years, it’s been in the hands of the same family since the start, building a legacy of great food and loyal customers. The menu sticks to the classics, all served with the same care and consistency that keeps regulars coming back.

A St-Léonard institution since 1974, Jarry Smoked Meat is a go-to spot for Montreal’s signature deli fare. While their classic smoked meat sandwich on rye is a must, it’s their smoked meat poutine that steals the show—beefy, salty, smoky, and utterly decadent.

This no-frills, late-night diner is all about big portions and comfort food done right. Whether you’re grabbing a club roll, a Reuben, or just craving a greasy feast, Jarry Smoked Meat delivers. The décor is old-school, the booths are brown-pleather, and the vibe is pure throwback diner charm—exactly what you want from a place that’s been serving generations of Montrealers.