Best Restaurants in Old Port Montreal
If you’re visiting Montréal for the first time and looking for a great dining experience, you must explore Old Montréal. This historic neighbourhood is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, cafés, and dessert shops, making it the perfect destination for food lovers. Whether you’re planning a date night, a casual outing, or simply want to explore the city, Old Montréal offers something for everyone.
I have dined at several restaurants throughout Old Montréal, and I can honestly say that each one offers a unique menu, memorable flavours, and fantastic service. In my opinion, Old Montréal is one of the best places to discover a diverse range of cuisines, including French, Italian, American, Greek, Caribbean, and more.
Beyond the food, what makes Old Montréal special is the vibrant atmosphere and the unforgettable experiences you create while exploring the area. The neighbourhood is known for having some of the best patios in the city, with many restaurants offering beautiful outdoor seating and picturesque views of the historic streets.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite spot or a visitor discovering Montréal for the first time, Old Montréal is the perfect place to enjoy great food, explore charming streets, and create lasting memories. Here are some of my top restaurant picks for you to discover.
Jardin Nelson
Located in: Jacques-Cartier Pier
Address: 407 Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, QC
Phone: +1 514-861-5731
Located in Montréal’s Old Port, Jardin Nelson is truly one of a kind. This seasonal restaurant is open from spring to fall and has become one of my favourite summer spots in the city. Jardin Nelson offers a full experience with delicious food, a beautiful patio, and live music that makes every visit memorable.
Located at 407 Place Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, this restaurant is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Montréal.
Jardin Nelson has a great menu featuring a variety of dishes. I have tried several items, and so far, my favourite is the fresh salmon lasagna au gratin. This dish is made with three different types of cheese, fresh Atlantic salmon, and spinach, creating a delicious combination of flavours.
Vieux-Port Steakhouse
Address: 39 Rue Saint-Paul E, Montréal, QC
Phone: (514) 866-3175
Vieux-Port Steakhouse is famously known for its aged steaks, warm ambiance, and delicious cocktails. Located at 39 Rue Saint-Paul E in the heart of Old Montréal, this restaurant is a must-visit destination for steak and wine lovers.
While the restaurant is known for its steaks, the menu offers plenty of other options for those looking for something different. During my visit, I tried the grilled salmon filet, and it quickly became one of my favorite dishes. This dish was a true 10/10 and a great example of the variety Vieux-Port Steakhouse has to offer.
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a classic steakhouse and bar known for its unique and tasty menu. Not only is the food excellent, but the atmosphere makes every visit memorable. Located in the heart of downtown Montréal, The Keg is a must-try restaurant for both locals and visitors.
The Keg has two locations in Montréal: one in the touristic Old Montréal area and the other in Place Ville Marie. Today, take a look at my experience at the Old Montréal location, including the food, atmosphere, and décor.
One of my favourite menu items is The Keg’s baked Brie, served with red pepper jelly, basil pesto, and crostini. This is an appetizer that everyone should try at least once. The Brie arrives warm and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the red pepper jelly and the flavours of the pesto. I have ordered this dish several times, and it continues to be one of my favourite items on their menu.
Bevo Bar + Pizzeria
Bevo Bar + Pizzeria is an authentic Italian restaurant located in the heart of Old Montréal. Bevo serves great cocktails, delicious pasta, and amazing desserts. Their pizzas are one of the highlights, cooked in an authentic wood-burning oven using fresh ingredients for a true Italian experience.
The menu is straightforward and offers a variety of Italian favourites, including pizzas, pastas, antipastos, and desserts. One of their popular pasta dishes is the Rosata con Ricotta e Funghi, featuring fusilli with rose sauce, crispy prosciutto, and mushrooms.
The dish showcases the flavours of traditional Italian cuisine, with a rich and creamy sauce complemented by savoury prosciutto. Bevo’s menu offers a great selection for guests looking to enjoy a casual Italian meal in the beautiful surroundings of Old Montréal.
Maggie Oakes
.One of the standout restaurants in Old Montréal is Maggie Oakes. Renowned for their dry-aged meats, diverse brunch menu, and inventive cocktails, this establishment is ideal for a date night, special celebration, or memorable evening out.
Located in the heart of the Old Port, Maggie Oakes offers a unique dining experience that combines a beautiful atmosphere with carefully crafted dishes. The menu features a variety of options, from premium cuts of meat to creative appetisers, brunch favourites, and delicious desserts.
Known for their attention to detail and exceptional hospitality, Maggie Oakes continues to be a popular destination for those looking to enjoy elevated dining in Montréal. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great restaurant to discover, Maggie Oakes is a must-visit destination in Old Montréal.
Sabrosa Latin Restaurant
Address: 404 Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, QC H2Y 1G8
Phone: (514) 326-6300
Reservations: opentable.ca
Unique restaurants can be challenging to discover in a city like Montréal, given the sheer number of dining options available. Fortunately, I came across Sabrosa, a Latin restaurant with an impressive menu and a truly distinctive dining experience.
Sabrosa stands out with its creative drink selection, grilled corn on the cob that brings a sense of nostalgia, and what I believe to be some of the best tacos in Old Montréal. What truly sets this restaurant apart is its bold flavours and innovative combinations of ingredients that create a memorable experience.
During my visit, I tried the chicken enchiladas, currently priced at $22, and enjoyed them. While the portion was not the most filling, the dish was prepared exceptionally well, with delicious flavours and carefully balanced ingredients. Sabrosa is definitely a restaurant worth discovering for anyone looking to explore Latin cuisine in the Old Port.
La Grande Terrasse
Address: 321 Pl. Jacques-Cartier, Montréal, QC
Phone: (514) 868-1955
La Grande Terrasse is one of the popular restaurants to visit in Old Montréal. The exterior is warm and inviting, and the same can be said about the menu and overall dining experience. Located at 321 Place Jacques-Cartier, this restaurant is easy to find thanks to its iconic red exterior and prime location in the heart of Old Montréal.
I visited this restaurant over the weekend and was not disappointed. What truly impressed me were the breathtaking views of the Old Port. Enjoying a drink while taking in the scenery created the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing afternoon lunch.
I must mention that our lunch was delicious, and everything we ordered tasted fantastic. From the beautiful location to the welcoming atmosphere and great food, La Grande Terrasse is a wonderful spot to enjoy a memorable meal while exploring Old Montréal.
Discover Amazing Cafes, Bakeries, and Bubble Tea Shops in Montreal, Old Port, Chinatown, and Monkland Ave.
If you're passionate about exploring new cafes, bubble tea shops, and bakeries in Montreal, take a look at some of my recent visits throughout the city. Uncover the finest mochi, lattes, donuts, and more. You'll find hidden gems that offer unique twists on classic treats, ensuring each outing is a delightful adventure for your taste buds. Don't forget to share your favourites with friends and make it a fun group outing!
