Montreal is once again cementing its status as one of Canada’s premier dining cities, with 28 restaurants earning a spot on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants 2026 list — more than a quarter of the national ranking.
From fine dining institutions to intimate neighbourhood gems, the city continues to punch above its weight on the national culinary stage, with several restaurants also recognized among the country’s best new openings.
At the top of the national list, Mon Lapin (No. 2) continues its strong run. The Little Italy favourite has become one of Canada’s most consistent performers, previously holding the No. 1 spot in 2023 and 2024.
Hot on its heels, Beba (No. 6) in Verdun continues its steady climb, earning praise for its Argentinian-inspired menu with Spanish and Italian influences.
Le Violon (No. 8) breaks into the top 10 for the first time, recognized for its refined, ingredient-driven approach to seafood and Quebec produce.
Several Montreal restaurants made strong moves this year:
Montréal Plaza (No. 13) — known for its playful French-inspired cuisine and bold dining room experience. It was also named Best Sommelier 2026.
Rôtisserie La Lune (No. 21) — a standout newcomer and sister restaurant to Mon Lapin. It also placed No. 2 on Canada’s Best New Restaurants 2026 list.
Bar St-Denis (No. 22) — awarded Best Restaurant Bar 2026
Limbo (No. 23) — a Mile-Ex newcomer with an open-kitchen concept, also ranked No. 3 on Best New Restaurants 2026
Sushi Nishinokaze (No. 24) — an intimate eight-seat omakase experience, also No. 5 on Best New Restaurants 2026
Alma (No. 34) — blending Mexican and Quebec culinary influences
Pichai (No. 36) — bold Thai-inspired street food flavours
Montreal’s creative dining scene continues to expand:
Salle Climatisée (No. 43) — natural wines and minimalist cuisine
Sabayon (No. 44) — a 16-seat intimate dining experience in Pointe-Saint-Charles. It was also named Best Pastry Chef 2026.
Cabaret l’Enfer (No. 45) — fermentation-driven, seasonal cooking
Pasta Pooks (No. 47) — a modern pasta-focused restaurant and top new entry, also ranked No. 8 on Best New Restaurants 2026
Longstanding institutions continue to anchor Montreal’s reputation:
Joe Beef (No. 51) — iconic Québécois-French dining in Little Burgundy
Parapluie (No. 56) — refined French-inspired tasting menus
Lawrence (No. 57) — seasonal Quebec-focused cuisine
Monarque (No. 61) — elegant French dining and brasserie offerings
Mastard (No. 63) — inventive neighbourhood cuisine
Grille-Nature (No. 66) — natural wine bar and casual dining concept
Toqué! (No. 70) — a benchmark of Quebec fine dining
Gia Vin et Grill (No. 71) — simple, wine-forward dining in a historic setting
L’Express (No. 73) — classic French bistro institution
Au Pied de Cochon (No. 78) — rich, indulgent Québécois cuisine
Elena (No. 93) — modern Italian comfort food
Chez Jean-Paul (No. 95) — bold neighbourhood dining newcomer
Claire Jacques (No. 99) — natural wines and small plates in Villeray
Casavant (No. 100) — lively modern bistro closing out the list
With 28 restaurants on the list, Montreal leads all Canadian cities in representation once again, reinforcing its reputation as a national culinary powerhouse.
From globally recognized fine dining to experimental neighbourhood concepts, the city’s food scene continues to evolve — and dominate.
