Le weekend in Montreal? Délicieux!

From creative vegan fare to carb-y comfort food, city’s vibrant dining scene caters to all taste buds

In 2016, Montreal was declared the “new food capital of North America” by Town & Country magazine, and while a Torontonian may argue it’s a matter of hot debate, a careful consideration of the bold claim calls for the latest on-the-ground research. So hop on a train for an easy weekend away in Quebec’s biggest city, with this shortlist — an appetizer course of sorts — just to start.

For creative plant-based dishes Archway Bar Santé (3683 Wellington St.)

If the description “100 per cent vegan” doesn’t usually whet your appetite, Archway Bar Santé promises to surprise. The interior design conjures a cool Lisbon café (the actual inspiration), while the menu wouldn’t feel out of place in L.A. Stop by the Verdun restaurant for a glass of biodynamic wine and shareable snackables, like grilled marinated artichokes atop cashew labneh, drizzled with vegan honey, or crispy tofu frites, jazzed up with furikake (the umami-packed Japanese seasoning), pomegranate maple molasses and aioli.

For trendy brunching Buvette Pastek (209 St-Paul St. W.)

A newer addition to Old Montreal, the Parisian-style Buvette Pastek is a popular spot for both wine sipping and weekend brunching. Stop in for a leisurely latte and one of the rich tartines (topped with, say, salmon, egg, buttermilk and beurre blanc sauce) — fuel for an afternoon of strolling around the cobblestone neighbourhood.

For bistro fare Place Carmin (740 William St.)

From the team behind the city’s beloved Bouillon Bilk comes this new brasserie, which combines an airy, lofty setting, high ceilings, statement mirrors, sky lights and lots of glass, with a slate of classic dishes. Fans of surf and turf will find a menu partial to seafood and beef, from scallop ceviche to grilled steaks sauced as you like it.

For carb-y comfort food Rita (3681 Wellington St.)

The decor at this Italian restaurant in Verdun includes a wall of nostalgic family photos, which is only fitting. The place is a tribute to two nonnas — both named Rita — the grandmas of co-owner Sophie Bergeron and chef Joey d’Alleva. The menu is ever changing, but expect Neapolitan-style pizzas, hot out of the wood-fired oven, and cosy pastas. Don’t depart without trying the dolci.