Montreal and poutine go together like cheese curds and gravy. This Quebec dish has evolved from humble casse-croûte origins into a cultural phenomenon that defines the city’s food scene. Whether you’re craving a classic late-night fix or an elevated gourmet experience, Montreal offers a diverse and authentic poutine landscape.
Let’s explore where to find the most memorable versions of this beloved comfort food. And, if you prefer dining at home, why not book a private chef to bring the authentic flavours of Quebec right to your kitchen?
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What makes poutine so special?
The secret to authentic poutine lies in three essential components: crispy golden fries, squeaky fresh cheese curds, and rich, flavourful gravy. Montreal’s proximity to Quebec’s cheese-producing regions means access to the freshest curds possible, those distinctive pieces that squeak against your teeth when truly fresh.
Montreal’s poutine culture runs deep, rooted in late-night cravings, post-hockey game celebrations, and the need for sustenance during long, cold winters. The dish emerged in rural Quebec in the late 1950s, but Montreal transformed it into an international sensation.
Where to eat the best poutine in Montreal? Our favourite spots
Montreal boasts an incredible range of poutine destinations, each offering something unique. Here are the best places to satisfy your poutine cravings:
La Banquise
Of course, when you’re thinking of Montreal poutine, you can’t forget La Banquise. This restaurant is a Montreal institution, and you can enjoy all kinds of poutine, at any time of the day. Yes, La Banquise is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week!
Among the most popular with customers, there are variations where meat is in the spotlight, such as the T-Rex (ground steak, pepperoni, bacon and hot dog sausage) and the Fred Caillou (ground steak, smoked meat, spicy sausage and merguez sausage).
Chez Tousignant
This exceptional little snack bar offers a canteen-style menu of Quebec dishes where you can eat one of the best poutines in the city! The retro décor reminds you of a diner right out of the 1950s and 60s.
They serve a classic poutine made with Quebec-grown potatoes, sprinkled with Tousignant’s own spice mix, topped with Quebec-sourced cheese curds and a chicken gravy.
Patati Patata Friterie de Luxe
Patati Patata is a charming “Friterie de Luxe” on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, serving its customers for over 20 years! Don’t be taken aback by the small size of the place because you’re here for the excellent poutines.
The portion is reasonable, not enough to make you sick, but just enough to satisfy a craving. The house also offers an affordable poutine breakfast option.
Restaurant Chez Claudette
Chez Claudette is a Plateau Mont-Royal classic that offers over 30 different kinds of poutine! The cosy restaurant welcomes neighbourhood regulars who come to enjoy a classic breakfast or a good poutine.
Although the house offers some of the most original poutines, locals consistently return for the classic, which is simply delicious!
Bring local flavors to your kitchen
From market-fresh ingredients to traditional recipes, a private chef turns your home into a true local experience.
Paulo & Suzanne
Paulo & Suzanne is open 24/7, and located right next to Sacré-Cœur Hospital. This is a Montreal landmark where some of the city’s best poutines have been served for more than 30 years.
The traditional poutine comes in two sizes, small and large, and there are a dozen or so different poutine options. The service is delightful and portions are generous.
Au Pied de Cochon
Au Pied de Cochon is one of Montreal’s most famous restaurants. It was one of the first “upscale” addresses to put poutine on its menu. And not just any poutine: Foie Gras poutine!
It’s well-known, and for good reason: it’s decadent and delectable. Made with a foie gras and cream sauce and topped with pieces of seared foie gras, it’s memorable!
Ma Poule Mouillée
Opened in 2013 at the corner of Rachel and Boyer, Ma Poule Mouillée has become one of Montreal’s best Portuguese “chicken counter/take-out” style restaurants.
Here you can eat some of the best poutine in town! Entitled “Bon, les Portugais font de la Poutine!”, the address offers a delicious poutine with São Jorge cheese, grilled chicken and chorizo.
Paul Patates
Open since 1958, Paul Patates is a Pointe-Saint-Charles institution. Here, freshness and quality are the watchwords.
Among all its excellent snack dishes, we come here especially for its traditional poutine that showcases the fundamentals done right.
Chez Simon Cantine Urbaine
Chez Simon Cantine Urbaine, a must-try gourmet spot in Tétreaultville, offers urban cuisine inspired by Southern US fast-food classics.
The chef-owner, Simon Jodoin Bouchard, is also the founder of the SJB BBQ sauce and spice company, renowned in the barbecue field.
Greenspot
Greenspot is a classic that seems to have been around forever, but first opened in the ’40s. The place features simple, well-made fast food dishes. Their burgers, hot dogs and poutines are a total throwback. The atmosphere and the old-timey décor, which makes us feel like it’s the 50s.
Roch le Coq
The house offers 4 different poutines, including 2 signature Roch le Coq creations that are a must-try! The first, Philo, is a classic poutine with fried chicken, green onions and hot sauce.
The second is served with fried chicken, pikliz and hot sauce. A real treat!
Montreal Pool Room
You can’t miss this Montreal institution, which has been open for over a century. While the Montreal Pool Room served nothing but steamed hot dogs and fries in their early days, it didn’t take long for poutine to become an integral part of the menu, and they do it well!
This greasy spoon on St-Laurent Boulevard is open until midnight on weekdays and until 4 a.m. on weekends.
La Belle Tonki
La Belle Tonki serves delicious fusion cuisine! The menu features Vietnamese and Cambodian-inspired dishes. A favourite? The kimcheesy poutine (winner of La Poutine Week 2021).
It’s made with “Spicy Challenge” spicy cheddar ramen sauce, kimchi, homemade sweet and sour sauce, popcorn chicken and, of course, French fries and cheese curds.
Gibeau Orange Julep
Julep’s doors were opened by owner Hermas Gibeau way back in 1932, but the huge orange-shaped structure only appeared later, in 1945. Julep has been at its present location on Décarie since 1966.
This is your classic fast-food kind of menu, but it’s considered a must-see in Montreal. The specialty is, as the name suggests, Orange Julep, but the poutine is also great!
Chez Ma Tante Patates Frites
Chez Ma Tante Patates Frites is a special mention that satisfies your craving for a classic poutine! This spot delivers authentic Quebec flavours in a traditional casse-croûte setting.
Must-try poutine variations in Montreal
Poutine is known for its comforting simplicity, but Montreal has taken this dish to new creative heights. Here are some must-try variations that should definitely make it to your Montreal poutine bucket list:
Classic Poutine
The original is still the best for many. Fresh-cut fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich brown gravy create the perfect balance of textures and flavours. It’s simple, comforting, and utterly delicious when done right.
Foie Gras Poutine
Au Pied de Cochon’s legendary creation features a foie gras and cream sauce. It’s decadent, expensive, and unforgettable, proving poutine belongs in fine dining.
Meat Lover’s Poutine
La Banquise’s T-Rex loads ground steak, pepperoni, bacon, and hot dog onto classic poutine. It’s a carnivore’s paradise available any hour of the day or night.
Kimcheesy Poutine
La Belle Tonki’s award-winning creation combines spicy cheddar ramen sauce, kimchi, sweet and sour sauce, and popcorn chicken with the classic fries and curds. It’s a flavour explosion showcasing Montreal’s multicultural spirit.
Portuguese Poutine
Ma Poule Mouillée offers São Jorge cheese, grilled chicken, and chorizo, a delicious fusion that respects both Portuguese and Quebec culinary traditions.
Would you rather stay in? Hire a private chef in Montreal
Not in the mood for a night out? No problem! You can still enjoy authentic Montreal poutine right at home by booking a private chef in Montreal.
With a professional chef, you’ll enjoy a custom-designed menu prepared in the comfort of your own kitchen, tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. These culinary professionals understand the art of perfect poutine, from sourcing the freshest Quebec cheese curds to achieving that ideal fry-to-gravy ratio.
Whether it’s a special occasion or just a night in, booking a private chef allows you to enjoy the best poutine Montreal has to offer without leaving your home. Skip the restaurant lines and have your meal prepared fresh and served just the way you like it. The service handles everything: grocery shopping, cooking, plating, and cleanup.
So next time you’re craving poutine, why not book a private chef to deliver an exclusive Quebec dining experience at home?
