Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour

Discover Montreal’s Flavors and Landmarks in Three Hours

The Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour offers a delicious walk through one of Canada’s most historic districts. Priced at $112 per person, this 3-hour guided experience combines tasting over 6 food stops with sightseeing and cultural insights. Departing from the main entrance at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, the tour is designed for those who want to explore Montreal’s culinary scene along with its many iconic sights. This tour suits visitors eager to indulge in local specialties such as Montreal bagels, poutine, and craft beer, while learning about the city’s history in a lively, engaging way.

A key strength is the variety of tastings, which include everything from traditional comfort foods to sophisticated dishes, making it a well-rounded culinary adventure. The guides are praised for their knowledge and personable approach, ensuring that your experience is both educational and enjoyable. Keep in mind that the tour does not include entrance to the Notre Dame Basilica and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or food allergies. Still, for anyone interested in a flavorful introduction to Old Montreal, this tour offers a compelling mix of food, culture, and history.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $112 per person for a 3-hour guided tour.
• Focus on Food: Over 6 food stops, including poutine, cheese, charcuterie, and high-end Nopales tacos.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories about Montreal’s history and buildings as you stroll.
• Landmark Visits: The tour includes sights like Place d’Armes and Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Special Experiences: Enjoy a smoked salmon bagel in a historic bank building and a craft beer tasting at Bistro-Brasserie Les Sœurs Grises.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with food allergies.

Starting at a Historic Bank Turned Café in Old Montreal

The tour begins inside a stunning former bank, now converted into the visually striking Crew Collective & Café. Here, you are welcomed with a Montreal classic: a smoked salmon bagel served in an atmosphere that feels both historic and modern. This setting immediately sets the tone for a tour that combines culinary delights with architectural beauty.

The main meeting point is clearly marked in the building’s lobby, where the guide awaits at a bench near the revolving doors. The tour runs rain or shine, and the vibrant interior of the café makes it easy to spot your guide even on busy days. Being in a notable historic space enhances the experience, blending Montreal’s past with its present culinary scene.

Tasting Local Cheeses and Charcuterie at Épicerie Le Beau Marché

After the initial introduction, the tour moves to Épicerie Le Beau Marché, a boutique spot that showcases Québec cheeses and charcuteries. Here, visitors get to taste a curated selection that highlights the region’s terroir and artisanal craftsmanship. This stop offers a chance to appreciate local flavors that are typically hard to find outside Montreal.

The guide shares insights about the cheeses and meats, making this tasting both educational and flavorful. It’s a good opportunity to learn about Quebec’s culinary traditions before heading to more substantial dishes. The tasting enhances understanding of Montreal’s food culture, emphasizing local produce and small-batch producers.

Mediterranean Flair at Mati Taverna with Braised Lamb

Next, the tour takes guests to Mati Taverna, a Mediterranean restaurant where fresh ingredients and slow-cooked dishes shine. Here, you’ll sample a Mati salad and a show-stopping 24-hour braised lamb neck. This dish offers tender, flavorful meat that highlights Montreal’s diverse culinary influences.

The restaurant’s setting is casual but stylish, providing a cozy ambiance for savoring hearty, Mediterranean-style cuisine. The guide explains the significance of slow braising techniques and regional flavors, adding a culinary education element. This stop gives a satisfying, high-quality taste of Montreal’s international tastes.

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Mexican Flavors at La Catrina with Nopales Tacos

The tour then ventures into Mexican cuisine at La Catrina, where the focus is on vibrant nopales tacos. Made from a cherished family recipe, these tacos are a distinctive feature of the stop, offering a vegetarian option that’s flavorful and satisfying.

Guests learn about the cultural background of Mexican ingredients and dishes, enriching the tasting experience. The guide’s storytelling highlights Montreal’s culinary diversity, showcasing how different traditions blend into the city’s vibrant food scene.

Classic Poutine at Franklin’s Subs & Suds

No Montreal food tour is complete without poutine, and Franklin’s Subs & Suds delivers just that. Visitors can indulge in a Smoke Meat Poutine, or opt for a vegetarian version if preferred. The poutine here features crispy fries, rich gravy, and cheese curds, embodying a Montreal favorite.

This stop offers a casual, hearty dish that represents local comfort food. The guide shares interesting tidbits about the origins of poutine and its evolution in Montreal’s food culture. It’s a satisfying, iconic taste that caps off the savory portion of the tour.

Sweet Finale at Chez Potier Pâtisserie with Canelés

For dessert, the tour visits Chez Potier Pâtisserie, a hidden gem known for its Canelés—small French pastries with a crisp caramelized exterior and a soft, custard-like interior. This treat offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, providing a light, flavorful ending.

The guide explains the pastry’s French origins and its popularity in Montreal. Sampling this pastry enhances the tour’s French influence theme and provides a sweet contrast to the savory dishes enjoyed earlier.

Craft Beer Tasting at Bistro-Brasserie Les Sœurs Grises

The final stop takes place at Bistro-Brasserie Les Sœurs Grises, a top craft brewery in Old Montreal. Here, visitors taste a local brewed beer that pairs well with the entire culinary journey. It’s a lively setting to enjoy a casual toast and reflect on the tour’s highlights.

The guide shares insights about Montreal’s craft beer scene, adding context to the quality and uniqueness of the brews. The experience concludes on a high note, celebrating Montreal’s vibrant food and drink culture.

Sightseeing Along the Tour Path

Throughout the tour, the guide highlights important landmarks like Place d’Armes and Notre-Dame Basilica. As the group strolls through cobblestone streets, the historical architecture and bustling ambiance of Old Montreal come alive.

Between tastings, the guide shares stories about the buildings, the neighborhood’s development, and Montreal’s cultural heritage. This approach creates a well-rounded experience that combines culinary exploration with cultural discovery.

Practical Details and Tips for Participants

Participants meet at the main entrance of the Crew Collective & Café. The tour runs rain or shine or snow, so weather-appropriate clothing is advised. The route is designed for walking, and while the tour does not specify accessibility options, it may be challenging for wheelchair users.

The tour includes more than 6 food stops, a craft beer tasting, and a classic Montreal bagel with smoked salmon. It does not cover entrance to the Notre Dame Basilica, but visitors can explore the basilica independently afterward. Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the pay-later option allows travelers to reserve without immediate payment.

Who Will Appreciate This Food and Culture Tour

This tour is perfect for food lovers who want to sample Montreal’s local specialties in a lively, historic setting. It’s also ideal for those interested in learning about Montreal’s architecture and history while enjoying diverse cuisines from French to Mexican to Mediterranean.

The knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging, sharing stories about the neighborhood’s landmarks and culinary traditions. While not suited for food allergies or mobility devices, the tour offers a relaxed pace and rich cultural context that appeals to most visitors interested in a comprehensive Old Montreal experience.

Summing Up the Montreal Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour

The Montreal: Old Montreal Food and Drink Tour provides a delicious, well-rounded snapshot of the city’s culinary landscape, history, and architecture. With over 6 food stops, including local cheeses, poutine, and craft beer, the tour satisfies both the palate and curiosity about Montreal’s cultural fabric. The guides’ expertise and personable manner elevate the experience, making it a popular choice for first-time visitors.

While the tour doesn’t include access to some landmarks like the Notre-Dame Basilica, it compensates with rich storytelling and authentic tastings. The $112 price point reflects the quality and variety of experiences provided. This tour offers an engaging way to explore Old Montreal’s vibrant food scene alongside its iconic sights, making it a memorable part of any trip to the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is designed for adults and may not be suitable for young children due to the walking and food selections.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour offers vegetarian options, but it is not suitable for guests with food allergies or specific dietary restrictions.

Does the tour include entry to Notre Dame Basilica?
No, the tour does not cover entrance to the basilica. Visitors can explore it separately after the tour.

What should I wear for the tour?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended since the tour runs rain, shine, or snow.

How many stops are included?
There are more than 6 food stops, including tastings of poutine, cheese, charcuterie, and a high-end Nopales taco.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The data does not specify group size limits, but small to medium groups are typical for guided tours.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as it involves walking through cobblestone streets.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is conducted in English.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

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