Montreal stands out as a culinary hotspot where history, culture, and innovative cuisine blend seamlessly. Its lively food scene combines traditional Quebecois comfort foods with modern twists, making it an ideal city for memorable dining experiences. Among the many options, we particularly appreciate the Montreal dinner cruises for their scenic setting and the lively brewery tours for beer lovers—both offering a taste of the city’s local flavor in unique ways. For those seeking a more tailored experience, the guide to your best restaurant choice can help you narrow down the perfect spot for a sit-down dinner.
In this list, you’ll find dinner cruises with spectacular views, lively brewery tours showcasing Quebec’s craft beer scene, and practical guides that make choosing a restaurant easier. Each experience offers a different slice of Montreal’s culinary landscape, ensuring that whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise or a craft beer adventure, there’s something for every taste.
1. Montréal: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing
At number 1, the Montreal: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing offers a standout combination of fine dining, scenic views, and evening entertainment. This cruise lasts about 3.5 hours and features a gourmet 3 or 5-course meal inspired by local ingredients. You’ll enjoy your meal on a boat cruising the St. Lawrence River as the sun sets behind the city skyline. The highlight is the chance to capture photos with iconic sights like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the Olympic Stadium illuminated in the background.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, noting dishes like tender beef and perfectly cooked chicken. The outdoor terraces provide excellent viewing points, perfect for sipping a cocktail or taking in the skyline. After dinner, the lively DJ sparks a dance party, making this cruise a fun, energetic way to end an evening. The reviews highlight the friendly staff, clean boat, and memorable entertainment as key strengths.
Bottom line: This cruise is ideal if you want a sophisticated dinner with unbeatable views and a lively atmosphere. It’s especially suited for couples and groups looking for a special night out with a touch of romance and fun.
2. Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing
Second on our list is the Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise, which provides a gourmet experience along the Saint Lawrence River for about 3.5 hours. This cruise stands out for its locally inspired 3 or 5-course menu, with highlights like Nordic shrimp, braised beef cheek, and a luscious chocolate-blueberry dessert. You’ll enjoy panoramic views from the glass-enclosed dining areas, which showcase Montreal’s skyline and surrounding islands.
What makes this cruise special is the combination of excellent cuisine and breathtaking scenery. The outside terraces allow you to breathe in the fresh river air and enjoy acoustic music or the city lights as you drift along. While reviews mention that the boat offers a comfortable, elegant environment, some note that the views outside are less expansive than on larger ships. Still, the overall experience captures the essence of Montreal’s vibrant river life.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who love gourmet food paired with scenic river vistas. It’s an elegant choice for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in Montreal’s food and waterfront beauty.
3. Guided Happy Hour Brew Tour in Montreal with Dinner
For beer enthusiasts, the Guided Happy Hour Brew Tour is a must. This 3- to 4-hour tour takes you to three carefully selected local breweries, including Microbrasserie 4 Origines, Benelux brewery, and Messorem #1. Led by passionate guides, you’ll learn about the beer-making process and sample a variety of craft beers, from stouts to IPAs.
The tour emphasizes behind-the-scenes access and tasting flights, providing a deeper understanding of Montreal’s craft beer scene. Guests love the informative guides and the opportunity to enjoy delicious food along the way—often with vegetarian options. The tour’s small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and reviews consistently mention how the guides enhance the tasting experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
This experience is perfect if you want to explore Montreal’s vibrant microbrewery culture without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s especially suited for those with an interest in craft beer, local culture, and socializing in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: A fun, educational experience for beer lovers looking for a lively, behind-the-scenes look at Montreal’s craft scene. It’s great for groups and those eager to pair beer tasting with some light bites.
4. Montreal: Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option
If you’re after a classic Montreal experience, the Bateau-Mouche Cruise offers a 3-hour journey along the St. Lawrence River. You can enjoy an a la carte dinner (not included in the base price) as you admire the city’s skyline and landmarks like Old Montreal and the Pont Jacques-Cartier.
The cruise provides a refined environment with music onboard and stunning views from the waterfront. The highlight is the chance to dine while taking in the city’s illuminated skyline, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a special celebration. The boat’s multiple decks and panoramic windows mean you won’t miss a detail of the Montreal landscape.
While some reviews mention the meal not being included in the base price, the opportunity to select a multi-course meal adds flexibility. The cruise is suitable for travelers who prioritize scenic views and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Bottom line: A solid choice for travelers seeking a traditional cruise experience with the option for a gourmet dinner, perfect for romance or a scenic introduction to Montreal.
$61 per person
5. Montreal: A guide to your best restaurant choice!
Finally, if you need help deciding where to eat, the Montreal restaurant guide offers personalized advice. It’s perfect if you want to explore Montreal’s food scene based on your preferences—whether that’s classic poutine, high-end dining, or hidden local spots.
This service simplifies the process, helping you craft an authentic culinary experience tailored to your tastes and budget. For those who prefer a flexible approach, this guide can point you toward top-rated restaurants that match what you’re craving, saving you time and frustration.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a curated dining plan, ensuring a memorable meal without the stress of choosing from the vast Montreal restaurant scene.
$18 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Montreal Dining Experience
When selecting the right experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of atmosphere you prefer. If scenic views and a special occasion are your priorities, a dinner cruise or the Bateau-Mouche offers unforgettable settings.
For craft beer lovers, the brewery tour combines education and fun without breaking the bank. If you’re pressed for time or want a personalized approach, the restaurant guide ensures you dine well tailored to your preferences.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular cruises and tours, which fill up quickly during the summer months or local festivals. Think about whether you want a lively, social atmosphere or a quieter, romantic dinner, and choose accordingly.
Montreal offers a rich array of culinary experiences that go beyond just eating—these tours deliver a taste of the city’s character, whether on water, in craft breweries, or at refined restaurants. Two standout options are the dinner cruises for their scenic charm and the brewery tour for its engaging craft beer scene. For those who want tailored advice, the restaurant guide can help you find the perfect spot.
No matter your preference, these experiences promise a delicious and memorable part of your Montreal trip. Be sure to book early and enjoy every bite of your time in this vibrant, food-loving city.