Montreal's Most Delicious Debates

Montreal's Most Delicious Debates

Montreal’s Most Delicious Debates 

Can You Help Settle These Iconic Food Rivalries? 

Everybody knows that Montreal is home to the ever-famous poutine. As delicious as it is, we can’t let poutine steal the spotlight from all the other iconic foods that Montreal has to offer. Our bagels have been giving New York City a run for its money for decades. And who doesn’t love a hearty smoked meat sandwich? We have Montreal to thank for that as well!  

What makes Montreal’s food scene even more exciting is that many of its most famous dishes come with a story. For generations, Montrealers have debated which bakery makes the best bagels, or which deli serves the best smoked meat. While the debates are all in good fun, they are surprisingly passionate, with loyalties running deep, often passed down through generations. 

So, during your visit, why don’t you take on a delicious challenge? Make a day of visiting Montreal’s most famous restaurants and bakeries as decide for yourself which deserve the top spot. 

Who Has the Best Bagels: St-Viateur or Fairmount 

The rivalry between St-Viateur and Fairmount Bagels has been around for decades; it is practically a part of Montreal’s folklore. Just a few blocks apart, in the Mile End neighbourhood, both bakeries still stick to their traditional way of making bagels: simmered in a water-and-honey bath and cooked in a wood-burning oven. Some people claim there are distinct differences between the two, others tend to choose their allegiance based on nostalgia. 

Try them out yourself and see which you prefer! They are best when eaten fresh out of the oven while strolling through the neighbourhood.  

St-Viateur Bagel : 263 Saint Viateur Street West. Open 24hrs. 

Fairmount Bagel : 74 Fairmount Avenue West. Open 24hrs. 

Who Serves the Best Smoked Meat: Schwartz’s, Dunn’s, or Reuben’s? 

Ask any Montrealer, or anyone who has visited the city, and they’ll tell you that Montreal smoked meat is a must-try. Traditionally, the smoked meat is piled high between slices of rye bread with yellow mustard. You can find it everywhere from classic neighbourhood delis to upscale restaurants, each with its own take on this beloved Montreal staple. 

And while many different restaurants serve their own version of this iconic sandwich, three names in particular stand out: Schwartz’s Deli, Dunn’s Deli, and Reuben’s Deli. For decades, Montrealers have been proudly defending and supporting their favourite spot. 

Now, if bagels aren’t your thing, or you’re still not full, try out these different delis and choose which allegiance you’ll be joining.  

Schwartz's Deli : 3895 Boul St-Laurent 

Dunn's Deli : 1249 Metcalfe Street 

Reuben's Deli : 888 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest 

No Wrong Answers, Just Great Food 

These long-standing rivalries are part of what makes Montreal’s food scene so unique. In the end, what matters isn’t which deli or bakery gets the most votes, but how each of these establishments have continued to thrive for decades thanks to the unwavering loyalty of Montrealers. They offer a look into Montreal’s history and preserved traditions. 

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