6 must-visit French restaurants and brasseries in Montreal

Montreal is full of French restaurants and brasseries that capture the authenticity and charm of Parisian bistros. From timeless classics to modern establishments, these restaurants offer iconic dishes such as coq au vin, beef bourguignon, mussels and fries, and refined French desserts. Discover our selection of six must-try French restaurants, perfect for sampling French cuisine without leaving Montreal.

Brewery 701

Located at the Hôtel Place d'Armes, in the heart of Old Montreal, Brasserie 701 is an elegant venue reminiscent of the great European brasseries. Here, you'll find a wide selection of classic French dishes that can be enjoyed from breakfast to lunch or dinner, with a touch of Montreal originality. Dishes such as stews, seafood, and veal or lamb specialties are accompanied by an impressive wine and cocktail list. It's a chic but accessible spot for a gourmet evening or Sunday brunch.

Leméac

Located at 1045 Laurier Avenue West, just steps from Outremont and the Plateau, Leméac is recognized as one of Montreal's most classic and refined French bistros. The restaurant combines traditional French cuisine with contemporary touches, offering dishes such as foie gras, sweetbreads, seasonal fish, and refined French desserts. Its reputation is based as much on the quality of its cuisine as on its elegant atmosphere—perfect for a romantic dinner or a gourmet evening with friends.

The Pegasus

Located at 1831 Gilford Street, Le Pégase is a French bistro highly regarded for its classic dishes such as beef bourguignon, sole meunière, and crème brûlée. The restaurant is often cited as one of the best places to discover traditional French cuisine in a warm and friendly setting in Montreal. Here, classic recipes are executed with precision and respect for tradition, offering a culinary experience reminiscent of Parisian brasseries, while highlighting local, high-quality ingredients.

At Lévêque's

Located at 1030 Laurier Avenue West, in Montreal's Outremont neighborhood, Chez Lévêque has been a staple of classic French cuisine for several decades. This cozy bistro offers iconic dishes such as coq au vin, beef bourguignon, and fish soup, as well as homemade charcuterie and terrines. The brasserie is renowned for its authentic traditional French cuisine, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, as well as for its friendly atmosphere reminiscent of Parisian bistros. It attracts both regulars and lovers of good French cuisine.

Gaspar French Brasserie

Located at 89 Rue de la Commune Est in Old Montreal, Gaspar Brasserie Française offers an experience inspired by Parisian brasseries in a renovated old warehouse setting. The menu features a modern take on French cuisine, with seafood, grilled meats, fish, and market vegetables served in a chic and friendly atmosphere. The large outdoor terrace is a great asset in the summer, and the place is recommended for a romantic dinner, a business meal, or simply an evening of discovery of classic and contemporary French cuisine.

The Express

Located at 3927 Saint-Denis Street in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, L'Express is one of Montreal's most beloved French bistros. Opened in 1980, it draws inspiration directly from classic Parisian bistros with a menu of timeless dishes that includes omelets, tartares, fish, braised meats, French desserts, and an impressive wine list. The atmosphere is typically European, with simple decor and attentive service, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic French dining experience in Montreal.