Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour

Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour is a fantastic way to combine culinary delights with cultural exploration. For $112 per person, you’ll spend about three hours walking through historic streets, stopping at over six carefully curated food spots. From a stunning converted bank to cozy cafes, you’ll taste Montreal’s signature dishes and learn about the city’s past along the way.

What we love most? First, the variety of authentic foods, including a classic Montreal bagel with smoked salmon and a tangy poutine—each served in atmospheres that tell a story. Second, the knowledgeable guides who not only share food tips but also weave in captivating anecdotes about Montreal’s architecture and history.

A minor consideration? The tour’s not suitable for those with food allergies or wheelchair users, which is worth noting if you have specific dietary needs or mobility concerns.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a well-rounded taste of Old Montreal’s charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning about a city through its cuisine, with guides who make each stop both tasty and informative.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Visit top-rated food spots and taste local specialties like poutine and Montreal bagels.
• Historical insights: Learn about Old Montreal’s landmarks and their stories from our guides.
• Variety of flavors: From cheeses to high-end braised lamb, the tour offers a broad palette of tastes.
• Expert guides: Guides like Cecile, Laura, and Darren are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly demeanor.
• Value for money: With over six stops, craft beer, and sightseeing, the price offers a very satisfying experience.
• Weather-agnostic: The tour runs rain or shine, snow or sun, making it adaptable to any season.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Montreal Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour

Starting Point and Atmosphere

Your journey begins inside the grand former bank building at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, now a beautiful café and co-working space. It’s an impressive, historic venue that immediately sets a tone of elegance and tradition. Meeting your guide here, you’ll be greeted in the lobby, with clear instructions on where to find them if you’re running late or have trouble spotting the group. The setting alone makes this tour feel special—it’s not just about the food but about soaking in Montreal’s architectural beauty from the get-go.

First Stop: The Classic Montreal Bagel with Smoked Salmon

We kick off with a Montreal classic—a smoked salmon bagel served in a space that used to be a bank, now offering a spectacular backdrop. The bagel’s soft, chewy texture combined with the smoky richness of the fish perfectly encapsulates Montreal’s Jewish-inspired culinary roots. Our guide, Cecile, shared her passion and detailed the history behind the bagel, adding context to every bite. It’s this blend of food and storytelling that makes the experience stand out.

Second Stop: Cheese, Charcuteries, and Local Specialties

Next, we moved to Épicerie Le Beau Marché, where a curated tasting of Québec cheeses and charcuteries awaited us. These bites highlight the terroir—the unique flavors of local cheese varieties and cured meats. Several reviews mention how this part feels like a mini cheese festival, and how much they appreciated the guide’s insights into the origins of each product. One guest noted, “We loved the way our guide explained the background of each cheese and how it reflected the region’s traditions.”

Third Stop: The Mediterranean Touch with Braised Lamb

At Mati Taverna, a Mediterranean gem, we enjoyed a fresh Mati salad along with their famous 24-hour braised lamb neck. The lamb was tender, flavorful, and clearly prepared with care—showing Montreal’s openness to diverse cuisines. Our guide pointed out how this dish represents the city’s culinary diversity, blending Mediterranean techniques with local ingredients. Reviewers have praised guides like Fran for their detailed descriptions, making the food even more memorable.

Fourth Stop: Mexican Flavors with a Nopales Taco

Moving on, we visited La Catrina for a vibrant nopales taco, a family recipe from Mexico. The cactus pad filling offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, and it’s a hit among vegetarians. Several travelers commented on the authenticity of the flavors, and how this stop added a welcome spice to the tour. Our guide explained the cultural significance of the dish, enriching the tasting.

Fifth Stop: Poutine with a Twist

Now, the pièce de résistance—poutine. Franklin’s Subs & Suds offers a Smoke Meat Poutine or vegetarian alternatives. The generous helping of fries topped with savory gravy and cheese curds makes for a perfect indulgence. Reviewers often mention how this stop is “a must,” and how the guide’s enthusiasm made trying poutine feel like a true Montreal ritual.

Sweet Finale: Canelle Pastry at Chez Potier

We visit Chez Potier Pâtisserie for a small, sweet treat—a caramelized canelé with a crisp exterior and tender custard inside. A delightful French pastry that’s not widely known outside Quebec, it perfectly caps off the culinary journey. Guests have appreciated the “hidden gem” feel of this spot, often stating they wouldn’t have found it on their own.

Ending on a High Note: Craft Beer at Les Soeurs Grises

The tour concludes at Bistro-Brasserie Les Soeurs Grises, a top craft brewery. Here, we sample local brews, raising a glass amid the lively atmosphere. It’s a fitting way to toast the end of your food adventure and learn about Montreal’s thriving craft beer scene. Reviewers mention that this finale “really made the tour feel complete,” combining tasting with relaxation.

The Value of the Experience

At $112, this tour offers more than just food—it’s a multi-faceted exploration of Montreal’s culinary traditions, architecture, and culture. With over six food stops, including specialty dishes like high-end braised lamb and gourmet tacos, combined with craft beer tasting and sightseeing, the value is clear. The guided commentary amplifies each taste, making the experience educational and engaging rather than just a series of tastings.

The tour is well-paced, allowing enough time to enjoy each food stop and absorb the stories behind them. With knowledgeable guides praised for their friendliness and expertise, you’re sure to come away with a greater appreciation of Old Montreal’s character and cuisine.

A note on accessibility: As it involves several stops and walking on cobblestone streets, it might not suit everyone with mobility issues or food allergies. The tour’s focus on authentic, traditional dishes also means vegetarians or those with specific dietary restrictions might need to check on available options beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, history lovers, and travelers who want a taste of Montreal beyond the usual sightseeing. If you enjoy flavorful, authentic dishes and stories about local culture, you’ll find this tour both satisfying and memorable. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike have praised guides like Laura and Darren for making the tour fun and informative.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Some stops offer vegetarian options, such as vegetarian poutine, but it’s best to check in advance if you have strict dietary needs.

Does the tour cover the Notre-Dame Basilica?
No, the entrance to Notre-Dame Basilica is not included in the tour, but you will see its exterior and learn about its significance.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately three hours, which is a comfortable length for most travelers to enjoy without fatigue.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is inside the main entrance lobby of 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, near the revolving doors. Look for the guide sitting on a bench.

Is the tour conducted rain or shine?
Yes, it operates rain, snow, or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially in colder months or rainy weather.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but it’s geared towards adults who appreciate culinary and cultural experiences.

Is there any alcohol involved?
Yes, a craft beer tasting is included at the end, but outside beverages are not permitted during the tour.

To sum it up, the Montreal Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour offers a well-balanced blend of culinary exploration, historical storytelling, and local atmosphere. It’s a fantastic introduction for visitors eager to taste authentic Montreal flavors and learn about the city’s character through its food. Guides like Cecile and Laura elevate the experience, making it both educational and fun.

If you enjoy delicious food, engaging guides, and want to see a side of Montreal that combines history and taste, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, it’s best suited for travelers who can handle a bit of walking and don’t have strict dietary restrictions—though, with a little planning, vegetarians can still thoroughly enjoy it.

All in all, this tour is a smart choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their time in Old Montreal, combining the city’s tasty traditions with its scenic streets and captivating stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: