Discovering the Unique Flavours of Montreal

Montreal is a city rich in culture and history, and its culinary scene is no exception. From smoked meats to bagels, the city offers a variety of unique foods that are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic Montreal foods and where to find them.

Montreal Smoked Meat

Montreal smoked meat is a culinary staple, and two delis stand out for their exceptional offerings:

Lester’s Deli: Known for its tender and flavourful smoked meat sandwiches, Lester’s Deli has been serving Montrealers since 1951. The deli’s secret blend of spices and slow-cooking process make their smoked meat a must-try.
Schwartz’s Deli: Perhaps the most famous smoked meat spot in Montreal, Schwartz’s Deli has been a landmark since 1928. Their smoked meat is cured for 10 days and smoked to perfection, offering a taste that is both savoury and unforgettable. Anthony Bourdain once called it a “pastrami-like magical substance”.

Montreal Hot Dogs

Montreal hot dogs are a local favourite: a steamed sausage in a soft bun topped with onions, coleslaw, mustard, and relish. While grilled versions exist, the steamed “steamie” is the classic choice:

Montreal Pool Room: Established in 1912, this iconic spot on Saint-Laurent is known for its steamed hot dogs, served with a variety of toppings, and stays open until 4 a.m. It’s a perfect place for a quick and satisfying bite.
Gibeau’s Orange Julep: Famous not only for its giant orange-shaped building but also for its delicious hot dogs and refreshing orange julep drink. It’s a classic Montreal experience.
Décarie Hot Dogs: A local favourite since 1969, Décarie Hot Dogs offers a no-frills approach with its perfectly steamed buns and juicy hot dogs, making it a beloved spot for many. Their french fries are extraordinary! Canned drinks include Cott’s black cherry soda.

Montreal Rotisserie Chicken

Montreal takes rotisserie chicken seriously! Expect juicy, flavourful birds with crispy skin, often seasoned simply with salt and pepper to let the natural taste shine. It’s usually served with a side of fries, bread, and a signature dipping sauce – each place has its own secret recipe! These two establishments lead the way:

St-Hubert: A household name in Quebec, St-Hubert is known for its tender rotisserie chicken and signature BBQ sauce. It’s a go-to spot for families and chicken lovers alike.
Chalet Bar-B-Q: Since 1944, Chalet Bar-B-Q has been serving up delicious rotisserie chicken, roasted over hardwood charcoal, with a secret sauce that keeps customers coming back for more.

Montreal Bagel

Montreal bagels are distinct for their sweetness and dense texture, and two bakeries are at the forefront (both are stops on our Mile End food tour):

St-Viateur Bagel: Open 24/7, St-Viateur Bagel is a Montreal institution. Their bagels are hand-rolled, boiled in honey water, and baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a unique flavour and texture.
Fairmount Bagel: Another legendary bagel shop, Fairmount Bagel offers a wide variety of bagels, all made using traditional methods. Their bagels are a must-try for anyone visiting the city. The all-dressed bagel is onion, garlic, caraway, sesame, poppy and coarse salt.

Pizza-Ghetti

A quirky Montreal dish, pizza-ghetti combines pizza and spaghetti on one plate, and these spots do it best:

Marconi Pizzeria: This family-run Rosemont pizzeria has been serving its famous pizza-ghetti since 1968: a pizza topped and filled with spaghetti, perfectly balancing flavours and textures.
da Giovanni: An institution since 1954, this family-friendly restaurant serves up hearty portions of pizza-ghetti, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these unique Montreal foods is a delightful journey through the city’s rich culinary landscape. Each dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the vibrant culture that makes Montreal a food lover’s paradise.