Montreal is full of great restaurants inspired by cuisines from around the world, and the city excels particularly in that of our French cousins. These restaurants, both comforting and of high quality, showcase a cuisine where simplicity and know-how are at the heart of the menu. French cuisine stands out for the freshness of its ingredients and the subtle balance between simplicity and complexity. Behind dishes that sometimes appear simple lies precise technique and rigorous execution.
This selection brings together addresses for all kinds of evenings: whether you’re looking for a more gastronomic experience or simply a good, affordable, and delicious dinner. This is also what we love about French cuisine: its consistency!
L’Express, on Saint-Denis Street, has been a true Montreal institution since 1980, and what defines it above all is its consistency. The menu has changed very little over the years, and people return precisely for these perfectly executed French brasserie classics: bone marrow, kidneys in mustard sauce, tartares, chicken liver mousse, or crème brûlée. Closed for a few weeks in 2025, the restaurant took the opportunity to give itself a facelift. Everything was renovated and refreshed without ever betraying the soul of the place: the décor remains exactly the same, simply renewed. The timeless, warm Parisian atmosphere is still fully intact. With an impressive and surprisingly affordable wine list and a cuisine faithful to tradition, L’Express remains a sure thing in Montreal, a restaurant that stands the test of time without ever losing its identity.
Located in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Le Pégase invites food lovers to discover its menu of French specialties in a romantic setting. Among the must-tries, the flank steak and rabbit are perfectly slow-cooked, while the celeriac tarte Tatin offers an innovative touch, all accompanied by carefully selected wines. With its two varied prix-fixe options, this restaurant combines tradition with accessibility, offering reasonable prices for a relaxed gastronomic experience. An ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a quiet evening among lovers of classic French cuisine.
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For those seeking the authenticity of a French brasserie, Le Molière, nestled in the Quartier des Spectacles, is an unmissable stop. Enjoy specialties such as mussels à la poulette, flank steak with pepper sauce, veal liver, and the delicious crêpes Suzette. On Sundays, the atmosphere transforms with a piano brunch, adding a cultural and flavorful dimension. A varied selection of wines and beers perfectly paired with the dishes completes this authentic bistronomy experience. A reliable choice for a lively downtown outing, before or after a show.
A relatively new address in Montreal, Bouillon Albert is located in Plateau-Mont-Royal at the corner of Rachel and Saint-Denis. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy traditional French dishes at affordable prices, in the spirit of Parisian bouillons, all within a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. Whether for a weekday dinner at the bar, a romantic date, or a night out with friends over good dishes and fine bottles, Bouillon Albert caters to all occasions.
In the heart of Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, État Major is a restaurant where French bistronomy comes to life. Dishes, from rabbit to foie gras cream, are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, reflecting inventive cuisine. Guests can bring their favorite wine to accompany specialties like the striploin and black pudding. The warm ambiance and attentive service make every meal memorable. Perfect for a dinner for two or a celebration with friends.
Le Pois Penché combines the charm of a French brasserie with a contemporary touch in the heart of downtown. Seafood lovers will enjoy the oyster bar and generous platters, while meat lovers will be delighted with tartares and duck confit. The wine selection, mostly organic and natural, is carefully chosen to complement the dishes. A perfect restaurant for both weekend brunches and business lunches in the city center.
Founded in 1977 in downtown Montreal, Chez Alexandre et Fils offers an immersion into French tradition with iconic dishes such as Toulouse-style cassoulet, black pudding, and duck confit. This bistro-brasserie is known for its continuous service from noon to midnight and for its Cigar Lounge, where guests can relax with a glass of champagne. The diversity of atmospheres in each room allows everyone to find their perfect spot for an authentically French moment. Perfect for a convivial dinner or a quiet weekday meal.
Leméac Café Bistro, located at the corner of Laurier and Durocher in Outremont, perfectly embodies the timeless charm of French brasseries. Since opening in 2001, this restaurant has made a name for itself with a rich menu including classics such as foie gras torchon, Leméac-style mussels and fries, house-smoked salmon, basil snail stew, cider-braised boudin, and salmon pot-au-feu. The heated terrace, open year-round, offers an elegant setting to enjoy these dishes. With over 225 wines on the menu, every meal becomes a true celebration. Their popular weekend brunches are not to be missed!
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Since 1972, Chez Lévêque has embodied French tradition in Montreal. This Outremont restaurant offers a rich menu of classics such as boudin, house terrine, coq au vin, fish soup, renowned offal, and seafood platters. The warm ambiance and renowned terrace make it a perfect venue for any occasion, from brunch to late dinners. The extensive wine selection, focusing on private imports and natural wines, enhances this authentic bistronomy experience. An ideal spot for a classic and flavorful evening.
Located on Saint-Jacques Street, Monarque is one of Montreal’s must-visit and most beautiful restaurants. Guests can enjoy French gourmet cuisine offered in two experiences: the more casual brasserie side, and the dining room with more elaborate à la carte dishes. Elegant, refined, and consistently delicious, Monarque stands out as one of the city’s best French tables. Ideal for both an elegant dinner or a more relaxed meal.
Located inside the Ritz-Carlton, Maison Boulud honors the great tradition of French cuisine while adding a contemporary elegance. The restaurant offers authentic cuisine, with a menu highlighting seasonal products and harvests. The arrival of such a renowned chef in Montreal marked the city’s gastronomic scene and remains, to this day, a true privilege for lovers of fine dining. A perfect address for a refined gastronomic experience.
Located in Montreal’s Old Port, Place Carmin offers classic and confident French cuisine, including must-tries like veal sweetbreads, filet mignon, tartare, and many other well-executed dishes. Designed as an elegant French brasserie, the space blends tradition and modernity in a chic and warm setting. Place Carmin is the project of Mélanie Blanchette and her team behind Bouillon Bilk and Cadet, with cuisine led by chef François Nadon. A relatively recent address that has already established itself as a solid choice and is well worth a visit. Perfect for a refined dinner or a night out with friends.
A true institution in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Chez Victoire has been a beloved spot for French cuisine enthusiasts for many years. The restaurant offers classic, comforting, and well-executed dishes, with seasonal ingredients and skill always at the forefront. With its warm ambiance, elegant yet unpretentious decor, and carefully curated wine list, it’s the perfect place for a special evening or a gentle, enjoyable dinner.
You can find more French restaurants on our guide.
Dining and Cooking