Montreal is known as being a city filled with amazing food, and year after year it’s restaurants top the list of the 100 best in Canada. For many Montreal food is synonymous with it’s infamous Bagels and Poutine, and while it does those so well it is filled with many more amazing cuisines.
1. Portuguese
Photo courtesy of Ferreira Café
When you think Portuguese food you probably think of Egg Tarts and Chicken, and while those are two delicious staples of Portugese food, you’re limiting yourself if you stick to them. Potentially the most underrated national cuisine Montreal has to offer, you can broaden your horizons by indulging in some mouthwatering lamb at Ferreira Cafe when your parents are visiting, or enjoying some tapas with friends at Portus Calle.
2. Coffee
Photo courtesy of Dailyxy
We here at Spoon McGill have had a long and public love affair with coffee, but can you blame us? While this isn’t technically a food, it is a staple for university students. Whether you’re looking for a classic pick me up close to campus, a worthy trek into the Mile End for syphon coffee or a perfect study hideaway in Old Port, you’ll find it in here.
3. Vegetarian
Photo courtesy of ChuChai
As a meat eater, the prospect of eating at a vegetarian restaurant that isn’t Lola Rosa was never something I jumped on, but I have learned that Montreal has some hidden meatless gems. You can grab some mouthwatering Thai food that’s entirely flavoured Tofu, an amazing Power Bowl at Copper Branch, or Falafel at one of the many Green Panther locations.
4. Drunk
Photo Courtesy of Restaurant Boustan
Much like coffee this is a McGill student staple, less so during this approaching finals season though. If you’re walking home now you’re likely to grab some greasy Poutine, a right of passage. And if you’re too tired go out once you’re home, you can always count on a delicious Burger or Shawarma.
5. Fusion
Photo courtesy of Barbounya
Everyone has those days they’re incredibly indecisive about what they want to eat, and luckily Montreal is filled with eateries for those days. If you’re looking for Turkish Tapas you can trek into the Mile End, , and if you want the a delicious and well priced Latin brunch, Cafe Mezcal will satisfy that craving.
6. Italian
Photo courtesy of Yelp
Some people love to complain about Montreal pizza and it’s because they haven’t been blessed with Il Focolai or tried the institution that is Amelias. If you find yourself in Old Port you have to stop in at Dolcetto & Co. for gnocchi. Take advantage of visiting parents with dinner at Mkt for polenta and meatballs. Montreal does more than just amazing Italian food though, pop into Café Olimpico for an iced coffee after grabbing St-Viateur.
7. Pastry
Photo courtesy of Yelp
When one thinks pastry they instantly conjure up images of French goods. While Montreal does offer some amazing Croissants, and other French goodies, it kicks butt in a plethora of pastries. If you’re craving a yummy Custard-filled Bun or an Apple Turnover you’ll be in heaven with places such as Patisserie Harmonie and Mamie Clafoutis on every corner.