by
mohit bohra
| Apr 14, 2025
Updated on - 13 Feb 2026
Montreal is a vibrant city known for its rich and diverse culinary scene. The local food reflects a unique blend of French, English and immigrant influences, making it a must-experience destination for food lovers. From iconic street foods to traditional delicacies, Montreal offers a variety of options to tickle your taste-buds. This guide highlights the top five local foods that have become synonymous with the city’s identity, each deeply rooted in Montreal’s culture and enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
List of top 5 must try local foods in Montreal
Here are some of the most popular local foods to try in Montreal:
Poutine can definitely be considered Montreal's signature food, evident through its popularity amongst locals and tourists. Variations of poutine are eaten for breakfast and main course meals. You can try breakfast poutine with duck confit and poached egg or can gorge on gluttonous foie gras poutine for main course meals.
The traditional version of Poutine - hand cut fries, gravy and cheese curds - is available at numerous food trucks and restaurants across Montreal. For a more gourmet experience - try the several re-imagined takes on Poutine, that use toppings like smoked meat and Foie Gras. Visit Au Pied de Cochon to try a vast variety of Poutine. Blackstrap BBQ, Pierrette Patates and Paul Patates are some of the other Montreal restaurants where you can indulge in an exhaustive range of poutine varieties.
Montreal prides itself on having the world's best bagels, which are apparently more delicious than their New York counterparts. The origin goes back to the early 20th century when Jewish immigrants brought the hand-rolled and wood-fired dense rings of dough. The Montreal-style bagel is hand-rolled, blanched in honey water and then wood-fired in front of the patrons.
When visiting Montreal, make sure you visit St. Viateur Bagel and Fairmount Bagel, the two most renowned and authentic Bagel shops in the city. Both these sacrosanct eateries run 24-hour operations. Do try your bagel with a can of cream cheese and smoked salmon.
Smoked Meat is hands down the most popular food in Canada; they put it in their sandwiches, on their Poutine and even on pizzas and spaghetti. A Canadian will say that a smoked meat sandwich is not just a sandwich - it's a work of art between two slices of rye with a smear of yellow mustard, perfected over 80 years.
There is a plethora of delis in the city offering a smoked meat sandwich. But the one that has gone down in history through books, documentaries and musicals is Schwartz's smoked meat. The restaurant's widespread fame is evident by the long line of customers waiting to dig into this local delicacy. Reuben’s, Smoke Meat Pete and Snowdon Deli are some of the other Montreal restaurants where one can enjoy a variety of smoked meat delicacies.
Although this is a drink and not a food item, Orange Julep features high up in Montreal's food culture. Lore has it that a man with a vision opened this orange coloured Hermas Gibeau, an eatery featuring waitresses on roller-skates and the most famous beverage in Montreal - Orange Julep. The Gibeau Orange Julep is a roadside attraction and fast food Montreal restaurant where you must spend an afternoon during your visit.
Although the recipe is a family secret, it is believed that one of the few ingredients is freshly squeezed Sunkist oranges. Packed with Vitamin C, this sugary milkshake-like beverage is the perfect companion on a warm sunny day in Montreal.
You might wonder, "Why should I try Arabic food in a Canadian city?" The answer is - Shish Taouk and Couscous. These items are staple fast food fare and are ubiquitous in the city. Being the world's second largest Francophone city, there are many French-speaking immigrants of Arab origin, who have brought their delectable delicacies along with them.
Shish Taouk is available at small roadside shops all over the city. Just make sure you specify that you want Shish Taouk and not Shawarma as both have similar ingredients yet are completely different in taste. "Couscouseries" have also sprung up in the Plateau Mont-Royal area, offering Moroccan, Tunisian and Algerian specialities.
Food markets in Montreal to visit for local food options
A public market, rich with local specialties and unique ingredients, offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local food culture while travelling. Here are a few popular markets for best local food:
- Marché aux Puces Saint- Eustache- 455 Av. Mathers, Saint-Eustache
The market offers an impressive variety of goods and experiences, making it one of the most dynamic flea markets in the region. This expansive indoor-outdoor market features over 100 vendors, along with several seasonal stalls, creating a lively shopping environment.
As you explore, you’ll find everything from high-quality jewellery and freshly baked treats to video games and musical instruments. Whether you're browsing or buying, it's an ideal place to spend a leisurely day discovering unique items and local charm.
- Marché Jean-Talon- 7070 Henri-Julien Avenue, Montreal, Quebec
Located in the heart of Little Italy, Jean Talon Market is one of the largest open-air markets in North America. Its original mission—to provide the local community with fresh, locally grown produce—continues to guide its operations today.
In addition to an abundant selection of fruits and vegetables, the market is home to butchers, cheese and fishmongers, flower stalls, a liquor store and specialty shops offering chocolate, spices, Italian goods, ice cream and many other artisanal products.
- 8Time Out Market- 705 Saint-Catherine St W, Montreal
Time Out Market Montréal offers a distinct experience compared to the city's more traditional markets. Rather than the classic farmers’ or flea market atmosphere, this vibrant venue is a contemporary, upscale food hall that brings together some of the city’s top culinary treats under one roof.
- Marché Atwater- 138 Atwater Avenue, Montréal
Atwater Market has been a staple of the city since 1933. Its elegant Art Deco architecture makes it one of the most visually striking buildings in Montreal. Open year-round, the market welcomes visitors in every season.
During the summer months, be sure to explore the Pôle des saveurs, a dedicated space showcasing creative and flavourful fast food. Offerings range from Vietnamese and Réunion Island cuisine to barbecue, tapas, ice cream and a variety of refreshing treats.
- Marché de Lachine- 1865 Rue Notre Dame, Lachine
Opened in 1845, the Lachine Market has welcomed visitors for nearly two centuries. While it is the smallest public market in Montreal, it is full of charm and definitely worth a visit.
The market is especially known for its excellent cheeses and delicious pastries. With a few extra finds from nearby stalls, you can easily put together a fresh and tasty picnic to enjoy by the canal.
Tips for travelling in Montreal for the cuisine
Travelling to a distant foreign country poses many risks to you and your family. Although Montreal is a beautiful city offering scrumptious Canadian food, there is always the risk of falling ill. Therefore, make sure you carry any medicines that you may require. Carry warm clothing to prevent catching a cold and avoid a visit to the doctor. In addition, unpredictable accidents and losing your stuff are also a common danger of travelling.
Reasons to buy travel insurance for Montreal
Before setting off on your trip to Montreal, it’s important to take precautionary measures to safeguard your trip. One of the best ways to do this is by purchasing travel insurance online. Whether you’re dealing with unexpected flight delays, lost luggage or a medical emergency, having international travel insurance ensures that you’re protected throughout your journey. It offers financial security and access to support services when you need them most—especially when traveling to a new country where healthcare and service systems may differ.
Conclusion
Montreal’s food scene is a true reflection of its cultural richness, offering a delicious mix of tradition and creativity. Whether you're biting into a warm smoked meat sandwich, sampling a fresh bagel straight from the oven or indulging in maple-infused treats, each local dish tells a story of the city’s diverse heritage.
As with any international trip, it’s also wise to plan ahead. Purchasing international travel insurance can give you peace of mind while you enjoy everything Montreal has to offer—from vibrant street food to cosy market finds.
FAQs
1. Where can I go to sample authentic local food in Montreal?
Visit Jean-Talon Market, Atwater Market or Time Out Market Montréal for a wide variety of local specialties
2. Is it possible to find vegetarian or vegan options of local foods?
Yes, many restaurants and markets offer plant-based versions of classic dishes like poutine and tourtière (vegan meat pie).
3. Can I buy travel insurance online before visiting Canada?
Yes, it is recommended to buy travel insurance for canada online before your trip. It’s a quick and secure way to ensure coverage during international travel.
4. What is the best time to visit food markets in Montreal?
Late spring to early fall is ideal for visiting open-air markets like Jean-Talon and Atwater, though many operate year-round with indoor sections.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.