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The 11 Best Food Tours in Montreal
Montreal is a city where food isn’t just fuel—it's a cultural language spoken through every bite. Its vibrant neighborhoods, like Mile End, Little Italy, and Chinatown, serve up a mosaic of flavors that reflect waves of immigration and local innovation. Whether you want to sample Montreal-style bagels, explore Jean-Talon Market, or enjoy an intimate private tour, this city offers a mix of culinary experiences that can turn a simple stroll into a flavorful adventure. We especially love tours that dig into specific communities—like the Jewish neighborhood or the Chinatown. These give you a real taste of Montreal’s multicultural identity, with stories and local dishes that go beyond the usual tourist spots.
If you're planning a trip to Montreal and want a true flavor of its food scene, this guide will help you choose from the best options available. We’ve ranked these tours based on their uniqueness, reviews, and what makes each one special—whether it’s the variety of food, the neighborhoods explored, or the insights shared by passionate guides.
Quick Overview
Montreal’s food tours span everything from bustling markets to historic neighborhoods. Some focus on local highlights like Jean-Talon Market or Old Montreal, offering tastings of bagels, poutine, and smoked meats. Others dive into specific communities, like the Jewish or Chinatown neighborhoods, revealing their unique culinary traditions. Private options and culinary walks with chefs add a personal touch, while comprehensive tours like the Montreal Food Tour with a Michelin Star-Trained Chef bring a professional’s perspective to the city’s flavors. Below, we break down each experience, so you can find the perfect match for your appetite and interests.
1. Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour by Spade & Palacio
Starting at number 1, this 3-hour walking tour takes you through Jean-Talon Market and the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy. What sets this tour apart is its focus on local vendors, farm-to-table produce, and multicultural influences like Vietnamese, Italian, and Latino flavors. Your guide will introduce you to producers and small eateries that are often ignored by mainstream tours. Expect to sample delicious bites and learn about Montreal’s love of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The reviews highlight how well-organized and flavorful the experience is, with visitors saying: “The food was delicious and plentiful,” and “a perfect way to understand Montreal’s diverse cuisine.” This tour suits food lovers who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path eateries and want an insider’s view.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a local, less touristy experience with a focus on market freshness and multicultural influences.
2. Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours
At number 2, this 3-hour stroll offers a curated look at Old Montreal, combining history and cuisine. It hits key sights like Place d’Armes and Saint Paul Street, while sampling Montreal-style bagels, cheeses, and poutine. Your guide will show you around the Old Port and introduce you to the neighborhood’s culinary gems, including a taste of local poutine and delicious canelés. The reviews praise the tour for its perfect blend of history and food, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Expect to try five tastings and a drink, making this a well-rounded experience. It’s ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with delicious bites.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a mix of historic sights and authentic Montreal flavors in a relaxed setting.
3. Montreal Mile End Original Foodie Tour – by Local Montreal Tours
Number 3 takes you into Montreal’s trendy Mile End neighborhood, famed for its bagels, smoked meats, and trendy cafes. This 3-hour tour includes visits to the St-Viateur Bagel shop, a community staple, and a Salvadorian restaurant offering tasty samples. Your guide provides insightful commentary about the community’s vibe and history. The reviews reveal that Darren, the guide, is engaging, funny, and proud of the city, making the experience both informative and fun. Participants rave about the delicious food and personalized experience. It’s perfect for foodies interested in Montreal’s modern culinary scene and cultural diversity.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to explore Montreal’s hip Mile End with plentiful tastings and local stories.
4. Montreal Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 4 offers a customizable private experience in the Mile End neighborhood. You’ll visit local hotspots, sampling Caribbean cuisine, homemade pasta, smoked meat, and bagels. The private setting allows you to tailor the tour — perfect for special occasions or food aficionado groups. The reviews highlight the personal attention and the diversity of foods, especially the secret dish surprises. The tour is flexible in length, from 2 to 3 hours, and is suited for travelers who want an exclusive, in-depth look at Montreal’s multicultural food scene. The inclusion of local and regional ingredients makes this a memorable, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, personalized culinary journey with expert guidance.
5. Montréal: Mile End Foodie Tour with Tasting
This 3-hour tour explores Mile End with tastings of poutine, hand-rolled bagels, and street art. It’s a great way to connect food, culture, and neighborhood vibe. Visitors enjoy meeting fellow travelers while sampling local specialties. The guide shares interesting stories about Mile End’s history and its bohemian character. The price point makes it an accessible option for those wanting a taste of Montreal’s creative side.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a casual, social experience with delicious bites and street art.
6. Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour
Number 6 offers a 4-hour dive into Montreal’s Jewish culinary heritage, visiting Outremont, Mile End, and Plateau Mont-Royal. You’ll sample smoked meat, bagels, knishes, and desserts at historic spots, learning about the Jewish community’s impact on Montreal’s cuisine. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, who shares stories of immigration and culture. The longer duration allows for more in-depth experiences and more samples. It’s ideal for those interested in cultural history combined with food.
Bottom Line: A must for food history buffs who want a comprehensive Jewish culinary experience.
7. Montreal: Mile End District Food Tour with 8+ Tastings
This 3-hour tour is a food lover’s dream, with 8+ tastings including bagels, poutine, gnocchi, and Sicilian cannoli. The guide leads you through Mile End’s quirky eateries, giving insights into local food traditions and Montreal’s multicultural identity. Reviews emphasize the generous portions and expert guidance. It’s best suited for those wanting a comprehensive, flavor-packed experience of Montreal’s diverse cuisine.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want lots of variety and plenty of food in a short time.
8. Montreal: Jean-Talon Market Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour
This 3-hour tour explores the largest farmers market in Canada, focusing on less-visited stalls and local charcuterie, surprises, and coffee spots. The guide reveals hidden gems and stories behind the stalls, making this perfect for foodies who want to explore beyond the touristy areas. Reviews mention the quality of tastings and the insider knowledge provided, making it a value-packed experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a local, authentic market experience without the crowds.
9. Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour
Number 9 features a 3-hour walk through Old Montreal, including tastings of bagels, poutine, and craft beer. You’ll visit historic landmarks while sampling classic local foods, gaining a taste of Montreal’s culinary blending of French, Canadian, and global influences. The reviews note how well the guide combines history and food, making it ideal for history buffs and foodies alike.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to enjoy historic sights paired with traditional flavors.
10. Beyond the Bagel: Montreal Jewish Food Walking Tour
This 3.5-hour tour takes you through Mile End and Plateau, focusing on Jewish foods like bagels, smoked meat, and knishes. The guide shares cultural stories and introduces you to famous Jewish eateries. The small group setting enhances the experience, and reviews mention the variety of tastings and engaging storytelling. It’s perfect for those looking for an in-depth, culture-focused food tour.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers interested in Jewish Montreal and its culinary influence.
11. Under the Surface of Montreal’s Chinatown: Guided Food Walking Tour
Finally, number 11 offers a 4.5-hour exploration of Montreal’s Chinatown, tasting dim sum, Chinese pastries, and barbecue at seven venues. The tour includes insights into immigration, history, and the evolution of Chinatown. Reviewers appreciate the variety of food and the informative guide, making it a full, satisfying experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those eager to explore Montreal’s Asian culinary traditions with a deep cultural context.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour for You
Picking the best Montreal food tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want to explore multiple neighborhoods with a focus on local markets, the Beyond the Market Non-Touristy Food Tour offers great value. For those craving a historic experience packed with Old Montreal favorites, the Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour delivers just that.
If culture is your goal, the Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour and the Chinatown Tour stand out for their stories and authentic dishes. For a private, customized experience, the Montreal Private Walking Food Tour is hard to beat.
Practical tips: Book early in peak seasons (summer and fall), consider your walking endurance—most tours last around 3 hours—and think about whether you’d like more structured group tours or a private, tailored experience.
Final Thoughts
Montreal offers a remarkable variety of food tours suited for all tastes and interests. Whether you’re after local farmers’ market flavors, historic culinary traditions, or the latest trendy neighborhood bites, you’ll find an experience that satisfies. For first-timers, a tour like the Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour provides a perfect introduction, while seasoned travelers might prefer the personalized touch of a Private Food Tour. Whatever your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on Montreal’s delicious offerings. Happy eating!