Montreal

Europea might make you think the best French cuisine is not in Paris or anywhere in France, but right here in Montreal! Chef Jérôme Ferrer, who learned to cook by his grandmother's side, has never left the kitchen and now shares his talent and passion with anyone who wishes to dine at his restaurant. Spanish, Italian, and Catalan influences enhance the French flavours for a truly extraordinary experience.

Damas is an upscale Syrian restaurant known as much for its food as for its richly decorated, Persian-influenced interior. Hanging lanterns, warm reds, and patterned fabrics set the tone, while the menu draws on the flavours of Damascus and Aleppo, with excellent hot and cold mezze alongside well-executed mains.

Arepera is a casual Venezuelan restaurant in the Plateau specialising in arepas, the country’s corn-based staple. Made with 100% corn flour, the arepas are naturally gluten-free and come stuffed with a variety of fillings ranging from slow-cooked meats to vegetarian and vegan options. The menu also includes empanadas, fried plantains, and other Venezuelan comfort dishes.

Inside a charming, lodge-influenced dining room, with a mix of French gourmet cuisine and Canadian specials, Le Club Chasse et Pêche knows how to please its crowd. From Québécois fish and game dishes, all the way to red velvet cake and other desserts, you are in for a treat.

Schwartz’s Deli is one of Montreal’s true culinary landmarks, serving its famous smoked meat sandwiches on Saint-Laurent Boulevard since 1928. The old-school diner atmosphere hasn’t changed much over the decades, and neither has the formula: hand-sliced smoked beef piled high on rye, served simply and generously. The meat comes out tender, juicy, and subtly smoky, letting the beef itself take centre stage. It may be busy, but for a first taste of Montreal’s classic smoked meat, Schwartz’s still delivers exactly what you came for.

A long-time favourite on Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Le Majestique is a lively seafood bar and oyster house known for its late hours, strong drinks, and unmistakable personality. The interior feels like a vintage diner playfully reimagined, with wood panelling, mismatched chairs, and just the right touch of kitsch. Seafood is at the heart of the menu, with excellent oysters shucked to order and served with classic accompaniments, alongside seasonal small plates. A rotating selection of natural wines, ciders, microbrews, and well-crafted cocktails rounds out the experience, drawing a loyal crowd of locals and late-night regulars.