The Best New Restaurants in Montreal [March 2025]

Winter hasn’t slowed the best new restaurants in Montreal. Then again, it never does; the city’s relentless drive to create, reinvent, and serve up something worth talking about is on full display with this latest crop of openings. Some are fresh out of the gate, others quietly slipped in late last year, but all of them are bringing something new to the table.

This list rounds up the best of what’s landed, from big-name chefs testing new ideas to up-and-comers making their mark, and family-run spots with serious heart. Whether you’re chasing the next big thing or just looking for a solid meal, these are the names to know right now.

We always keep this list fresh, with no opening more than six months old, so consider this your last chance to check out openings dating back to September 2024: Bouillon Albert, Safy Falafel, Othym, Natsu, Dunya, Bona Fide, and Capisco.

Take a deeper dive into our picks with our resident restaurant and bar critic Bottomless Pete.

Molenne

5309 St Laurent Blvd

Some restaurants try to make a splash. Molenne just feels like it’s always been here. Housed in a former hay depot from Montreal’s first racetrack—the same one that gave Mile End its name—this brasserie is built on layers of history. Banquettes salvaged from Théâtre du Nouveau Monde, chimney plaques repurposed as decor, a 32-year-old fridge given a second life—everything about Molenne leans into the past while pushing forward.

But don’t mistake it for a nostalgia act. Chef Louis-Joseph Rochefort is at the helm, turning brasserie staples into something sharper: black cod in shiitake broth, braised cabbage with escargots, white charcutière sauce. The bar, run by Gia Bach Nguyen (Gia), pours cocktails on tap, while a 5,000-bottle wine cellar stocks everything from rare vintages to solid $50 picks.

Molenne isn’t here to chase trends. It’s here to stay.

Siamo Noi

5060 De la Côte-de-Liesse Rd

This latest project from Novantuno Hospitality—the team behind Fiorellino and Stellina—lands in Royalmount with big ambitions: a high-energy dining experience that blends timeless Italian cooking, tableside theatrics, and a dose of effortless cool.

At its core, Siamo Noi is about heritage and hospitality. Co-owner Massimo Lecas describes it as a love letter to Italian culture—one where cicchetti at the bar, handmade pasta, salt-crusted fish carved tableside, and tiramisu assembled before your eyes all come together for a meal meant to be savored, not rushed.

Designed by Kayla Pongrác, the space is polished but warm, the kind of place where you can drop in for an aperitivo or settle in for a long, elegant dinner.

Oncle Lee Kăo

112 McGill St

If Oncle Lee was a statement, Oncle Lee Kǎo is a declaration. The latest project from Andersen Lee and his team, this Old Montreal restaurant takes its name from the Mandarin word for “roast,” and it lives up to it—grilled meats, seafood, and fire-kissed flavours are at the heart of the menu. But Kǎo isn’t just about the heat. It’s about balance, layering street food inspiration with high-end execution.

Expect Sichuan-spiced whole sea bream, cumin-rubbed lamb skewers, and Cornish hen done Hong Kong-style, alongside wok-fried greens, mapo tofu, and seafood-stacked crispy chow mein. The wine list has expanded, the cocktails lean into East Asian influences, and the Baijiu-infused creations aren’t for the faint of heart.

Bigger than Oncle Lee but just as bold, Kǎo is refined without losing its edge—a place where you can grab a snack and a drink or settle in for a feast. Either way, you’ll want to stay awhile.

Taglio

1889 Centre St

If you care about Montreal smoked meat done right, the butcher shop and sandwich counter at Taglio is worth the trip. This Pointe-Saint-Charles butcher shop and deli doesn’t take shortcuts—whole briskets are cured, smoked for 13 hours over cherry and hickory wood, then sliced fresh to order. No pre-sliced steam trays, no mass production, just deep, peppery, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

But Taglio isn’t just a smoked meat joint. The sandwiches alone justify the visit—porchetta with eggplant and red pepper sauce, mortadella with pistachio cream, house-cured salmon, roast beef with spicy aioli—all made with the same obsessive attention to detail. The butcher counter stocks dry-aged beef, house-made sausages, and specialty cuts, and soon, they’ll be baking their own bread.

With only five seats at the counter, this isn’t a place to linger—it’s a place to grab something exceptional and go. In a city where smoked meat is either fading or factory-made, Taglio is keeping it real.

Sushi Nishinokaze

5400 St Laurent Boulevard

Sushi Nishinokaze strips omakase down to its essence: eight seats, a reverence for Edomae tradition, and a meticulous balance between local wild catches and Japanese imports. Helmed by chef Vincent Gee and co-owner Julian Doan, this Mile End sushiya operates like a living gallery, where centuries-old ceramics share the spotlight with razor-sharp craftsmanship. The menu moves through a 20-course sequence, from otsumami starters to binchotan-grilled bites and precise nigiri, with each dish showcasing the natural expression of its ingredients.

Doan, a longtime advocate for purist sushi, ensures every detail—from the curated ceramics to the jazz soundtrack—adds to an immersive, deeply considered experience. Here, sushi is storytelling, a lesson in restraint, and a showcase of what Canada's wild waters can bring to the omakase counter.

Chez Greenberg

5159 Avenue du Parc

Chez Greenberg is more than just a bagel and smoked fish counter—it’s the start of something bigger. Taking over the former Lustucru space on Avenue du Parc, this project is the brainchild of Jake Greenberg of Zaidie’s smoked salmon and Daniel Feinglos (Agriculture du Coin).

What began as a pandemic-born online business selling smoked salmon has now landed in a physical space, offering bagel sandwiches, latkes, knishes, and homemade cream cheeses. The shop also serves as a first step toward Feinglos’ larger vision—an urban farm on Parc producing herbs, greens, and rainbow trout.

Even Café

267 Rue Saint-Zotique Ouest

Even Café is built on a foundation of precision, passion, and a deep respect for the craft. Combining a roastery and café under one roof, the Mile-Ex space brings Montrealers closer to the process, ensuring a seamless journey from green bean to final cup. Founded by a team of seasoned professionals, Even prioritizes quality without pretension, creating an environment where customers can engage with coffee in a meaningful way.

The design, developed with Future Simple Studio, strikes a balance between raw and refined, mirroring the care that goes into every roast. With a curated selection of pour-overs, espresso drinks, and a rotating food menu, Even embodies a new chapter in Montreal’s café culture—one that’s as much about connection as it is about coffee.

Muni

1750 Rue Saint-Patrick

Muni isn’t just another sports bar with a golf simulator shoved in the back—it’s a full-scale indoor golf club designed for those who take their swings as seriously as their drinks. Set in an 8,000-square-foot space in Pointe-Saint-Charles, this urban take on the fairway offers seven semi-private, lounge-style simulators powered by GOLFZON tech, meaning each shot is tracked, every lie is simulated, and even AI swing analysis is on the table.

The setup caters to both seasoned players and first-timers, but golf isn’t the only draw. The bar program leans into New Orleans-inspired cocktails, while the kitchen turns out Southern-style eats like fried chicken, biscuits, and elevated takes on country club fare. A boutique rounds out the experience, stocking up-and-coming golf brands like Malbon and Forden. Designed by Ivy Studio, the space blends industrial bones with a refined edge, making it a welcome alternative to both traditional country clubs and standard sports bars.

Sora Café

1 Pl. Ville-Marie

Not exactly a new opening, but Sora 45—known for its sleek cocktail scene high above Montreal—is now shifting gears by day to Sora Café, a specialty coffee bar perched on the 45th floor. By morning, the space trades late-night drinks for expertly crafted espresso and tea, offering a refined caffeine fix with a panoramic city backdrop. The baristas focus on precision, bringing the same attention to detail found in the evening cocktail program. Enjoy a quick espresso or a slow sip while taking in the skyline, whatever the weather.

Fame Café

5201 Clark Street

FAME Café brings a new rhythm to Clark Street, where coffee, music, and design intersect in a space that feels as much a creative studio as it does a café. It channels Italian influences through its espresso bar and evolving menu, with a side of DJ sets that shift the café experience into something more immersive.

The design leans retro-chic—wood, leather, and metal warmed by a collection of vinyl records—setting the stage for a space that balances refinement with an easy energy. Coffee is the anchor, with a tight menu of well-executed classics alongside house specialties like caffè zabaglione. A backroom promises pop-ups and coworking sessions.

Nawat Café

1334 Rue Fleury Est

Nawat Café aims to cultivate a space where simplicity and nature take centre stage, reflected in both its name—rooted in indigenous traditions—and its commitment to sustainability. The focus here is on hand-harvested coffee, organic ingredients, and a serene atmosphere that invites slow mornings and quiet afternoons. The decor leans warm and natural, with thoughtful details that complement the café’s ethos.

The ambiance gets high marks, and the layout's designed for relaxation, not work. Nawat has promise—its strengths lie in its inviting service, well-chosen coffee, and a clear vision.

Rôtisserie La Lune

391 Rue Saint-Zotique

Rôtisserie La Lune is a love letter to Québécois rotisserie culture, reimagined by the celebrated team behind Mon Lapin in Little Italy. Merging old-school comfort with the creative flair that made its sister restaurant a Canadian culinary heavyweight, it's where executive chefs Marc-Olivier Frappier and Jessica Noël work their magic on poultry—think tender chicken, duck, and guinea fowl—sourced from trusted local farms.

The dining room, designed by Zebulon Perron, exudes timeless warmth. With nods to the lunar cycle and a commanding wooden owl at the entrance, it’s an inviting space where rotisserie aromas and the noise of a bustling and lively dining room mingle. A curated wine list by Vanya Filipovic and Alex Landry balances French gems with Quebec’s finest. No reservations, no pretension—just quality comfort food done with soul.

Leila

5439 Saint-Laurent Boulevard

Leila carves out a niche in the Mile End with its unapologetic homage to Southern Mediterranean flavours. Spearheaded by chef Amine Laabi and a team of longtime collaborators, the restaurant combines rustic charm with a dash of urban sophistication. Inside, earthy hues and a tucked-away lounge outfitted with vintage rugs offer a setting that feels equal parts relaxed and intentional. Drinks are as unfussy as the vibe, with classic cocktails and a tight list of wines from Spain, Italy, and beyond.

The menu? Straightforward, sunny, and made to share. Highlights include Moroccan sardines on brioche, lamb merguez, fusilli with lamb flank and chanterelles, and braised beef cheek—and that's just to start with its winter opening date in December 2024.

Éléonore

2804 Ontario Street East

Following the opening of Junco in September 2024 (see below), its sister operation Éléonore blends French charm with a laid-back edge, making it the go-to spot in Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve for indulgences in the evening. The menu leans into the classics with a modern twist, serving up dishes that comfort and impress in equal measure.

Whether it’s the honeyed depth of a Lune de Miel cocktail or a bottle of natural wine selected to complement your mood, the space is meant for intimate evenings with soft lighting and a welcoming vibe that encourages lingering.

La Courtepointe

220 Rue Villeray

La Courtepointe steps into the heart of Villeray with big shoes to fill, taking over the beloved Miss Villeray spot and transforming it into a warm, unpretentious hub for the neighbourhood. The space, now a vibrant bar and bistro, blends the old and new, keeping the iconic Miss Villeray sign while introducing a fresh identity rooted in community and conviviality.

Helmed by a group of friends—Simon Bilodeau, Cédric Drouillard, Gabriel Marcouillier, Maxime d’Amore Fongaro, and Maxime Duquette—the concept focuses on affordable microbrews, natural wines, and a seasonal menu crafted by Maxime acting as chef. Plates like miso-glazed mushrooms or fennel salad showcase local ingredients with finesse, pairing beautifully with house-brewed collaborations and thoughtfully selected wines.

Paper Hill

1030 Rue St-Alexandre

Café Paper Hill is a blend of café culture and bistro charm in Old Montréal that's located in a historic building with roots in the city’s printmaking past. Paying homage to its neighbourhood’s heritage, it features a wall dedicated to printed works for browsing or inspiration.

By day, the café serves up expertly crafted espresso drinks alongside a menu of sweet and savoury breakfast and lunch options—think creamy frittatas, salads, and indulgent mac and cheese. By evening, the atmosphere shifts into apéro mode, offering a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and small plates like vegan spreads, charcuterie, and artisanal cheese boards.

La Scacciata

2660 Notre-Dame Street West

La Scacciata is rewriting Italian dining in Montreal its own way. Specializing in scacciata—a Sicilian focaccia ideal for sandwiches and pizzas—this spot near Atwater Market has a menu centred on quality, with all key ingredients imported directly from Sicily to capture the authentic taste of the region. The team sources fresh, seasonal produce from local organic farms to complement their imported offerings.

It’s a philosophy that pairs Sicilian soul with Montréal’s agricultural spirit—and then there’s the showstopper: a six-foot pizza designed for sharing, perfect for families, gatherings, or anyone craving an unforgettable slice of communal dining.

Tacos Montreal

6720 Saint-Laurent Boulevard

Tacos Montreal in Little Italy serves authentic Mexican dishes served in portions big enough to satisfy any appetite. This opened spot is already making waves with its standout tacos al pastor, featuring tender, marinated pork topped with real pineapple, onions, and cilantro—all served on your choice of tortilla. Beyond tacos, the menu includes cheesy alambre, hearty tortas, loaded nachos, and gringas packed with chorizo. It includes halal and vegan options, as well.

Birbante

5386 St Laurent Blvd

Birbante's about the essence of 1970s Milan. The brainchild of brothers Pierpaolo and Davide—who also helm La Panzeria—this Italian spot in the Mile End touches on aperitivo culture with bold dishes. It's a versatile spot where you can dig into apericena—Italy’s laid-back blend of small bites and drinks—or a full meal:

Start an evening with antipasti like the Crudo di Capesante made with fresh scallops, blood orange and mint, or the Doppia Bruschetta, balancing spicy ’nduja with stracciatella and pistachios. Other dishes are more substantial, like the Creste di Gallo alla Bolognese, Risotto alla Milanese with saffron and guanciale slices, Pesce Spada—swordfish with tomato confit and toasted almonds—or the smoky Controfiletto sirloin, paired with roasted potatoes and mushrooms.

Bar Les Cousins

1020 Rue du Lux (Brossard, Quebec)

Bar Les Cousins inside Hôtel Escad at DIX30 is a bar à cru specializing in fresh seafood and crudo offerings. Rooted in the familial ties of its owners, the name pays homage to a cherished 1970s Quebec City establishment and the Germain family’s close-knit spirit. Designed by Zebulon Perron, the 80-seat space has an understated elegance to it with warm woods, gold accents, and marble-topped tables.

Under the guidance of chef Florimond Hannoteau, known for his work at Boulevardier, the menu highlights tartare, carpaccios, and seafood platters. Guests can watch their dishes crafted in real-time, and they are complemented by a curated wine list and cocktails. Live music nights add a final touch, making it a standout on the South Shore.

Mémo

644 Notre-Dame St West

Mémo in Old Montreal is a modest spot helmed by chef Rémi Lemieux—an ITHQ alum with stints at Au Pied de Cochon and Nord-Est—that delivers dishes that blur the line between indulgent gastronomy and some playful creativity.

While the lunch menu offers refined yet approachable plates, dinners venture into more experimental tasting menus: Think scallops in a dashi broth with smoked salt, soy, seaweed, and fermented celery juice, or deceptively simple dishes like beet tartare or a squid-ink burger with smoked beef. Whatver you go for, don’t skip the Russet fries cooked in butter.

Bowie

457 Sainte Hélène St

Found beneath Dorsia and crafted by WITH Hospitality, Bowie's a subterranean enclave channelling the spirit of the world’s elite private clubs. Its dim lighting, plush surroundings, and unwavering dress code set the stage for a late-night menu that pairs upscaled bites with classic and signature cocktails, all for a refined way to cap off a night.

Star Bar

4671 St Laurent Blvd

Coming from the minds behind Pizza Bouquet, Star Bar's a hybrid bar and pizzeria that keeps nailing Bouquet's Montreal take on New York-style pizza, served fresh from the oven in an atmosphere that’s both retro and inviting.

The space has playful kitsch and warm familiarity: Stained-glass lanterns throw soft light over a wood-accented dining room decked out with vintage photos and a mounted shark. Within weeks of softly opening, it’s become a hub for LGBTQI2S+ folks and allies, fostering a creative, inclusive community vibe. Go here for a crisp slice, a cold drink, and laid-back energy.

Zama

3709 St Laurent Blvd

Zama's a Mayan-inspired supper club with a design pulling from ancient aesthetics and contemporary finishes: Think textured stone bars, intricately carved masks, and ambient lighting. The menu mixes Mexican and Japanese flavours: Highlights include truffle-infused esquites, ceviche de chicharrón bursting with lime and cilantro, tacos with garlic aioli and jalapeños, sushi with unconventional smokiness, and tequila-laced mango sorbet.

Beyond the food, Zama’s Funktion-One sound system fuels nights with Afro-House, Latin beats, and hip-hop.

Restaurant Dada

280 Rue Beaubien Est

DADA blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours in Little Italy, marking the latest venture from Saïd Rafik, the chef-owner behind Bazar Café.

The space has a Moroccan-inspired lounge on one side and a sleek dining room on the other, both serving a menu with a mix of influences—Moroccan, Syrian, Lebanese, Turkish, and Spanish—like shared mezzes, tagines, and Rafik’s couscous. Highlights include the chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives, shakshouka, and muhammara. Vegetarians are also well-served with a variety of options. The wine list, curated by sommelière Mariève Isabel, adds another layer of depth, featuring standout Lebanese selections.

Chez Maman Jeanne

2357 Jolicoeur Street

Chez Maman Jeanne's a family-run spot serving up hearty, homemade African and Creole dishes—think comforting stews, spiced curries, and light desserts straight out of their family recipe book.

The warm, welcoming vibe is an extension of the kitchen’s ethos. From Congolese specialties like tilapia with madesu (bean sauce) and goat paired with fumbwa (manioc leaves in peanut sauce) to Creole classics like griot, tassot, and richly spiced rice dishes, there’s something for everyone. Vegetarians will appreciate options like plantains, pondu, and savoury sides, while desserts like African-style banana split and beignets add a sweet finish. 

Kaizen Manga Café

1433c Bishop Street

Kaizen Manga Café is a two-storey experience just steps from Concordia’s downtown campus. Upstairs, the K-mart serves a lineup of Asian-inspired snacks, drinks, and light meals, from matcha lattes to onigiri and onirigirazu.

The lounge is a cozy escape, designed for unwinding, studying, or diving into manga. For $12.99 per hour, guests enjoy unlimited manga access, free WiFi, and an all-you-can-eat snack bar with tea and coffee refills. The space is student-friendly and stays open late, making it ideal for night owls and study marathons.

Hoshi

14 R. de la Gauchetière Est

Hoshi specializes in donburi, katsu, and tempura bowls: Highlights include the rosu and hire katsu—panko-crusted pork loin and tenderloin served with soup—and the ten don, a rice bowl topped with fried scallop, shrimp, egg, and vegetable tempura, finished with a house-made tare sauce for a rich kick. For noodle lovers, the shrimp udon combines delicate broth with mushrooms, tofu, seaweed, and plump shrimp. Portions are generous, flavours are bold, and each dish strikes a balance between comfort and indulgence.