As the temperature rises and the city shakes off the last of the winter frost, there is a vibrant energy that takes over the streets of Montreal. You can feel it in the air: the "joie de vivre" that makes our city the culinary capital of Canada. For locals and visitors alike, eating your way through Montreal isn’t just about sustenance; it’s a cultural pilgrimage. From the steam rising off a fresh stack of smoked meat to the sweet, honeyed scent of a wood-fired bagel, the food here tells the story of our history, our diversity, and our obsession with doing things the right way.
Whether you’re a lifelong Montrealer or just visiting for a weekend, there are certain dishes that are simply non-negotiable. We’re talking about the heavy hitters, the legends, and the hidden gems that keep our food scene world-class. Grab your napkins and a cold black cherry soda; here are 15 iconic Montreal dishes you need to try at Schwartz’s Deli and beyond.
1. The Classic Smoked Meat Sandwich (Medium-Fat)
You can’t talk about Montreal food without starting at the "Main." Since 1928, Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen has been the undisputed king of smoked meat. While the lean option exists, any local will tell you that "medium" or "medium-fat" is where the magic happens. The meat is cured for ten days with a secret spice blend and smoked to perfection. When it hits the rye bread with a smear of yellow mustard, it’s a religious experience. C’est magnifique!
2. Montreal Steak Seasoning (on a Rib Steak)
Did you know that the world-famous Montreal Steak Spice actually originated at Schwartz’s? Back in the 1940s, a broilerman named Morris "The Shadow" Sherman started putting the deli’s pickling spices on his own steaks. The rest is history. While you can buy the spice almost anywhere, trying a rib steak encrusted in this salty, peppery blend at a classic spot like Moishes is a must. It’s the spirit of the city on a plate.
3. The Wilensky Special
Stepping into Wilensky’s Light Lunch in Mile End is like stepping back into 1932. This family-run institution is famous for "The Special": a grilled bologna and salami sandwich on a toasted roll with a mandatory smear of mustard. Rule number one: don't ask them to cut it in half, and rule number two: don't ask for no mustard. It’s a piece of Montreal history that costs less than a fancy latte.
4. Fresh Sesame Bagels (The Great Debate)
In Montreal, you are either Team Fairmount Bagel or Team St-Viateur Bagel. There is no middle ground. These aren't your typical doughy, New York-style bagels. Montreal bagels are smaller, denser, boiled in honey water, and baked in wood-fired ovens. Pro tip: go at 2:00 AM when they are piping hot, buy a dozen, and eat one plain right out of the paper bag. It’s pure bliss.
5. Poutine Galore at La Banquise
Every year, thousands of people descend upon La Banquise to witness the extravaganza of poutine varieties. While the classic (fries, squeaky cheese curds, and brown gravy) is the gold standard, La Banquise offers over 30 variations. From the "T-Rex" loaded with meat to vegetarian options, it’s a 24-hour haven for anyone looking for the ultimate comfort food. If you're looking for more ways to save while exploring the city's food scene, check out our coupon offers for local deals.
6. The Mish-Mash at Beauty’s
As we approach the weekend, the line at Beauty’s Luncheonette starts to wrap around the corner of Mont-Royal. Since 1942, this spot has been the go-to for the "Mish-Mash": an omelet filled with hot dogs, salami, green peppers, and onions. It’s a vibrant, chaotic, and delicious representation of a classic Montreal brunch.
7. Gibeau Orange Julep
You can’t miss it, literally. The giant orange sphere on Decarie Boulevard is a landmark of the city. The Gibeau Orange Julep is a creamy, frothy, secret-recipe orange drink that tastes like a liquid creamsicle. Pair it with a "steamie" (a steamed hot dog) and watch the classic car shows that often take place in the parking lot during the summer months. It’s a total vibe.
8. Portuguese Roast Chicken
Montreal has a deep love affair with Portuguese charcoal-grilled chicken. The skin is crispy and spicy, the meat is succulent, and the Piri-Piri sauce is addictive. While there are many great spots, Romados in the Plateau is legendary. The smell of the charcoal grill wafting through the neighborhood is enough to make anyone hungry. It’s local pride at its most delicious.
9. Lobster Spaghetti at Joe Beef
For a more upscale take on iconic Montreal fare, you have to head to Little Burgundy. Joe Beef has gained international fame for its unapologetically decadent menu. Their Lobster Spaghetti is world-class: generous chunks of fresh lobster tossed in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s a celebration of Quebec’s maritime bounty and the restaurant’s "more is more" philosophy.
10. Gnocchi in a Box
If you find yourself wandering the streets of Little Italy, follow the crowds to Drogheria Fine. They serve one thing and they do it perfectly: fresh gnocchi topped with a simple, soul-warming tomato sauce, served in a Chinese takeout box for just a few dollars. It’s the "spirit" of the neighborhood in every bite. Bon appétit!
11. Half-Sour Pickles and Black Cherry Soda
Returning to our friends at Schwartz’s, you can’t have the sandwich without the sides. A large, crunchy half-sour pickle provides the perfect acidic snap to cut through the richness of the smoked meat. Wash it all down with a Cott’s Black Cherry soda. It’s the traditional pairing that hasn’t changed in decades, and for good reason.
12. Smoked Meat Poutine
Why choose between two icons when you can have both? Many spots across the city, including Dunn’s Famous, serve a poutine topped with generous piles of Montreal smoked meat. It’s a heavy-duty meal that represents the heart of our culinary identity. It’s the ultimate "guilty pleasure" for any food lover.
13. The "Steamie" at Montreal Pool Room
The Montreal hot dog comes in two forms: "steamie" (steamed) or "toastie" (grilled). For the most authentic experience, head to the Montreal Pool Room on Saint-Laurent. Order it "all-dressed" (mustard, onions, and coleslaw: never ketchup!). It’s cheap, it’s fast, and it’s been a staple of the city’s nightlife since 1912.
14. Soft Serve Swirl at Kem CoBa
As the sun sets over Mile End, the queue for Kem CoBa starts to grow. This artisan ice cream shop is famous for its vibrant, dual-flavored soft serve swirls. The flavors change every two weeks: think Passion Fruit and Mango or Salted Caramel and Hibiscus. It’s a curated guide to summer flavors that attracts ice cream lovers from all over the island.
15. Tarte au Sucre (Sugar Pie)
To wrap up your Montreal food tour, you need something sweet. Tarte au sucre is a traditional Quebecois dessert that is essentially a hug in pie form. Made with maple sugar, cream, and butter, it’s incredibly rich and deeply rooted in our heritage. You can find excellent versions at local bakeries or at the famous Au Pied de Cochon.
Montreal is a city that lives to eat. From the stress-free simplicity of a gnocchi box to the world-class magic of a Joe Beef dinner, there is something here for every palate. We pride ourselves on our local businesses and the flavors that define us.
At MTL365, we love celebrating the people and places that make this city so special. Whether you’re looking for the best smoked meat or the latest events, we’ve got you covered. If you have any questions or want to share your favorite Montreal dish, feel free to contact us.
Every meal in this city is an opportunity to witness a tradition or discover a new favorite. So, next time you're on the Plateau or wandering through Old Montreal, make sure to bring your appetite. The city is waiting for you, one bite at a time.
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