Montreal is undoubtedly one of Canada's culinary capitals.

The city is brimming with restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, ranging from local flavors to international delights.

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a family meal, Montreal has something for everyone.

Montreal attracts foodies from around the world thanks to its culinary diversity and the exceptional quality of its restaurants.

The city is a true melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in the variety of cuisines on offer. Talented and innovative chefs, often trained at the best culinary schools, choose to set up shop in Montreal, attracted by the creative energy and the locals' appreciation for good food.

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Jacob Richler, a former Montrealer and former National Post food critic, is the editor-in-chief of this list. He oversees a seasoned army of 160 judges.

Once again this year, he and his group published a list of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants.

Montreal boasts 25 of them:

Montreal cuisine does indeed have a restaurant at the top of the list of Canada's Best New Restaurants 2025, compiled by the same judges who judged the 100 Best Restaurants.

This is Le Violon, the latest offering from chef Danny Smiles.

Located in Derek Dammann's former Maison Publique on Marquette Street, Le Violon offers a delicious blend of French, Italian, and Lebanese cuisine.

Our city once again distinguished itself, hosting 25 restaurants.

After Mon Lapin, Beba, the Argentinian gem from Verdun by chef Ari Schor, finished seventh, one place higher than in 2023 and 2024.

Monarque (17), Montréal Plaza (20), Cabaret,  l'Enfer (22), Alma (24), and Pichai (25) also appeared in the top 25.

We find well-known heavyweights in the industry such as Joe Beef (46), L'Express (61), Toqué! (67), Au Pied de Cochon (76), Nora Gray (90), and Damas (91).

Not to be forgotten are trendy restaurants like Liverpool House, Le Club Chasse et Pêche, Milos, and Maison Boulud.

 It's worth noting that Juliette Plaza, the younger sibling of Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson's Montréal Plaza, finished seventh on the list of new restaurants and 77th in the top 100.

Located next door to the latter on Saint-Hubert Street, Juliette Plaza serves an intriguing mix of French and Asian dishes.

A special mention goes to:

Schwartz's Deli

No Montreal restaurant guide would be complete without mentioning this famous deli, an institution since 1928, known for its legendary smoked meat.

Joe Beef

For a more casual but equally memorable dining experience, this restaurant in the Little Burgundy neighborhood is famous for its generous and flavorful dishes. L'Express

L'Express is an iconic French bistro in Montreal, located on St-Denis Street in Le Plateau.

Au Pied de Cochon

For a unique and daring experience, Au Pied de Cochon is a must. This restaurant, led by Chef Martin Picard, is known for its rich and indulgent dishes.

Bouillon Bilk

Bouillon Bilk, located on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, is a modern restaurant offering inventive and elegant cuisine.

Culinary Festivals

Culinary festivals, such as Montréal en Lumière and MTLàTABLE, also add to the city's gastronomic appeal.

These events allow residents and visitors to discover new restaurants, taste exclusive dishes, and meet the chefs behind their culinary creations.

They add to the city's gastronomic appeal.

Here are some of the events not to be missed:

Pizza Week. From May 1 to 10, 2025, Pizza Week unites the city around slices of cheese.

Many restaurants in the city will offer their signature pizzas in a bid to win the title of best pizza in Montreal.

Peel MTL Gourmand. Every May, restaurants located on Peel Street offer a unique gastronomic experience, from summer to fall. Enjoy the festive atmosphere during happy hour or on weekends with DJ performances.

Café Collectif On May 3 and 4, 2025, this specialty coffee festival will be held at the Société des Arts Technologiques (SAT).

It will feature tastings, workshops, conferences, and more to celebrate the local coffee scene.

YATAI MTL From May 29 to June 1, 2025, this festival celebrates all things Japanese, its food, and culture.

Enjoy taiko (Japanese drum) performances, concerts, film screenings, and artist workshops, but most importantly, taste sumptuous Japanese street food.

Les Foodies Festival Taking place in the Old Port of Montreal on May 31 and June 1, 2025, this event brings together food lovers, restaurants, and brands.

Discover delicious food and drinks, enjoy samples, and shop to your heart's content.

First Fridays: Every first weekend of the month starting in June, celebrate world cuisine at Canada's largest annual street food gathering.

This must-see event showcases the cultural and gastronomic diversity of communities with its Culture Street.

Montreal is a city where gastronomy is in the spotlight.

With a multitude of restaurants offering a variety of culinary experiences, there's something for every taste and occasion.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, take the time to discover these establishments and savor the delights Montreal has to offer.