Montreal's culinary landscape is as vibrant and dynamic as its culture, and if you're looking to dive into the city's latest gastronomic triumphs, identifying the new restaurants Montreal must try 2024 can feel like a delicious challenge. This isn't just about finding a good meal; it's about experiencing the cutting edge of Quebecois creativity, from innovative takes on traditional fare to bold new international flavors. Navigating the sheer volume of openings requires a keen eye and insider knowledge, which is exactly what we’ll deliver.

At a Glance: Your Montreal Dining Playbook

  • Identify Top Contenders: Learn which spots are generating national buzz (Air Canada longlist) and local adoration (Time Out Montreal).
  • Strategic Selection: Understand how to pick restaurants based on occasion, cuisine preference, and budget.
  • Neighborhood Know-How: Discover which areas are hotbeds for new culinary talent and what to expect there.
  • Booking Best Practices: Get actionable tips for securing reservations at Montreal's most sought-after tables.
  • Beyond the Plate: Explore the unique dining experiences and atmosphere each new spot offers.

The Big Picture: Why Montreal's Food Scene is Buzzing in 2024

Montreal isn't just Canada's culinary capital; it's a significant player on the North American dining stage, continuously pushing boundaries and attracting world-class talent. The past year has seen an explosion of new establishments, each vying to carve out its niche, driven by a blend of tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to local ingredients. This relentless evolution is why lists like Air Canada's annual Best New Restaurants (a Canadian institution since 2002) and Time Out Montreal's curated selections are so highly anticipated, giving us a clear lens into the city's gastronomic pulse. While you're charting your course through Canada's vibrant dining scenes, don't forget to consider how these local trends fit into the larger North American tapestry—you can always broaden your search for exceptional dining experiences across the continent with our guide to Explore US trending and hidden gems.
The criteria for inclusion on these lists are rigorous. Air Canada's longlist, for instance, involves a single anonymous reviewer embarking on a month-long food marathon, focusing on food quality, creativity, and service for restaurants opened between spring 2023 and May 2024. Time Out, on the other hand, zeroes in on "hottest new tables" noted for their "bold creativity and traditional fare," reflecting the local pulse and what's genuinely exciting Montrealers right now.

Air Canada's Top Picks: The National Spotlight Contenders

When a restaurant makes Air Canada's Best New Restaurants longlist, it signifies national recognition, placing it among the most promising new dining experiences in the country. Montreal, tying with Vancouver for second place with five nominees (behind Toronto's six), is clearly a powerhouse. These establishments are vetted for their innovative menus, impeccable service, and overall dining experience.
Let's dive into Montreal's five contenders:

  • Casavant (Mile End): This brasserie has quickly become a Mile End staple, embodying a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. Think classic brasserie fare elevated with meticulous execution and perhaps a Quebecois twist, making it ideal for both a celebratory dinner or a refined casual meal. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of well-executed fundamentals.
  • Parapluie (Little Italy): A true standout, Parapluie is uniquely featured on both the Air Canada and Time Out lists, signaling a consensus on its excellence. Owner-chef Robin Filteau-Boucher’s focus on supporting local producers shines through in dishes like Magdalen Islands scallops and lamb from Ferme Péchés Moutons. Its open-kitchen setting fosters a comfortable, engaging atmosphere, making it a must-try for those who value farm-to-table integrity and thoughtful sourcing.
  • Sabayon (Pointe-Saint-Charles): Nestled in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Sabayon offers a fine dining experience that's both elegant and inventive. Expect a sophisticated menu that plays with textures and flavors, pushing the boundaries of contemporary cuisine. This is a destination for special occasions or when you're seeking an immersive culinary journey designed to surprise and delight.
  • Heni (Little Burgundy): Little Burgundy welcomes Heni, a restaurant quickly making a name for itself with a unique culinary identity. While specific menu details might vary, the recognition suggests a focus on creativity and a distinctive point of view, likely drawing on global inspirations while respecting local tastes. It’s the kind of place where you go to discover something new and memorable.
  • Juliette Plaza (Saint-Hubert): A spinoff of the much-loved Montreal Plaza, Juliette Plaza brings a touch of that acclaimed restaurant's magic to Saint-Hubert. Expect the same commitment to quality ingredients and inventive dishes, likely in a slightly more relaxed or perhaps neighborhood-focused setting. It's an excellent opportunity to experience the culinary lineage of a Montreal favorite in a fresh context.

Time Out's Curated List: Local Flavors and Bold Concepts

Time Out Montreal's selection offers a granular look at the city’s new guard, highlighting 15 spots that locals are buzzing about. These are the places that are redefining Montreal’s dining scene, whether through bold creativity, masterful execution of traditional fare, or unique concepts.

Innovative Asian: From Refined Chinese to Modern Filipino

Montreal's palate for Asian cuisine is broad and sophisticated, and 2024 has seen a surge of exciting new entrants:

  • Oncle Lee (Laurier Avenue): Chef Andersen Lee, in partnership with Mélanie Blanchette and François Nadon, reimagines Chinese cuisine with an inspired twist. Expect both classic dishes executed flawlessly and unique creations that challenge preconceptions. This is a place for discovering the breadth of modern Chinese flavors.
  • La Marelle (Location not specified but focus on Japanese BBQ): From Brendan Lavery Breier, Chef Carlos Melgar, and Taylor D’Ottavi, this spot is dedicated to Japanese barbecued meats. The ability to watch grilling at the bar adds an interactive element, and their curated wine list ensures perfect pairings. It's a focused, high-quality experience for meat lovers.
  • Ohayo Café (Mont-Royal): A cozy 28-seat haven from Chef Hiroshi Kitano and Samath Mom, Ohayo Café offers a delightful array of Japanese comfort food. Think Japanese coffee, tea, unique tamago spread, shrimp patty sandwiches, and various ramen options, including vegan. It's perfect for a casual, authentic Japanese breakfast or lunch.
  • Pony BBQ (Location not specified, but Otto group): The Otto group's reinterpretation of Korean BBQ brings a Seoul street vibe to Montreal. With grilled specialties like Nagano pork cuts and marinated beef galbi, overseen by Wongu Jeon and Jongwook Lee, it’s an immersive experience for those craving authentic, high-quality Korean barbecue.
  • Octo (formerly Le Flamant): Under Chef David Hibon, Octo specializes in reasonably priced Asian street food. Its unique dim sum, duck imperial rolls, lamb dumplings, and okonomiyaki-inspired loaded fries offer a fresh, approachable take on beloved Asian comfort dishes. Ideal for a flavorful, casual meal with friends.
  • Izakaya Regashi (near Atwater metro): Founded by Thierry-Tri Du-Boisclair (son of Tri Du), this izakaya offers a diverse menu. Highlights include beef carpaccio, yakitori, Japanese-style fried chicken, aged fish sashimi, sweet potato gnocchi, and a thoughtful wine and cocktail menu. It’s an energetic spot for sharing plates and enjoying expertly crafted drinks.
  • JunJun (Location not specified): Montreal’s first modern Filipino restaurant by brothers Toddy and Jojo Flores. JunJun offers innovative twists on traditional Filipino dishes, such as Adobo duck breast, carpaccio-style Bulalo, and Kinilaw with Quebec mackerel. This is a must-visit for adventurous diners eager to explore refined Filipino cuisine.
  • Chai-Yo (near Sherbrooke metro, Saint-Denis and Malines): A plant-forward restaurant from the ChuChaï family, specializing in vegan Thai cuisine. Their Kao Kra Pao, green curry, Pad Thai, and banh-mi for lunch prove that vegan dining can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s a compelling option for both vegans and those looking for vibrant, healthy dishes.

Modern Italian & Mediterranean: From Fine Dining to Tapas Bars

Montreal's love affair with Italian and Mediterranean flavors continues, with new spots offering both traditional and inventive takes:

  • Miracolo (Boulevard Saint-Laurent): Alejandro Vega’s Miracolo delivers masterfully crafted Italian dishes across six menu sections. With late-night options available Thursday through Saturday, it’s a versatile choice for both a relaxed dinner and a vibrant evening out, offering depth and variety in its Italian offerings.
  • Mercuri 109 (Location not specified): Veteran Chef Joe Mercuri opened this restaurant in December, presenting inventive Italian cuisine for weekday lunch and evening service. Mercuri’s reputation precedes him, so expect a high level of culinary artistry and a contemporary approach to Italian classics.
  • Estelle (former Grumman78 space): A joint venture by experienced restaurateurs Francis Rodrigue, Massimo Caprio, Pino Forgione, and Chef David Tarantini, Estelle offers an Italian-focused menu in five sections. Situated in a notable space, it’s poised to become a significant player, blending classic Italian roots with modern flair.
  • Bar Vivar (Plateau): This authentic Spanish tapas bar on the Plateau evokes the lively spirit of Barcelona. With croquetas, vermouth, and simple, affordable dishes like tortilla and Russian salad, Bar Vivar is perfect for a convivial evening of shared plates and Spanish charm in its intimate 30-person dining room.

Brasserie & Eclectic Wonders: Global Influences, Local Heart

Montreal’s dining scene is also celebrated for its eclectic and sophisticated brasserie-style offerings, blending various influences:

  • Climats (Time Out Montréal Market): A modern brasserie led by Chef Jean-Sébastien Giguère, Climats highlights local flavors within the bustling environment of the Time Out Market. It’s a fantastic option for a high-quality, chef-driven meal in a more casual, vibrant setting, perfect for a quick yet refined lunch or dinner.
  • Le Godot (Location not specified): An eclectic kitchen offering a diverse menu with Peruvian, Asian, French, and Quebec influences. Dishes like dumplings, turkey wings with char siu pork, bone marrow beef tartare, and curried mussels showcase a global pantry. Paired with a thoughtfully curated drink list, Le Godot promises an adventurous and satisfying dining experience.
  • Marci sur la Plaza (Plaza St-Hubert): This hotspot focuses on New York-style pizza, but goes beyond with a variety of other dishes, natural wines, and moderately priced negronis and martinis. Often featuring Montreal DJs, it’s a lively, affordable, and fun spot for a casual meal that doesn't skimp on quality or atmosphere.

Making Your Montreal Must-Try List: A Strategic Approach

With so many incredible new options, how do you decide where to go first? It comes down to a few key considerations:

  1. Define Your Occasion:
  • Special Celebration? Sabayon or Mercuri 109 might fit the bill for an elegant, fine dining experience.
  • Lively Night Out? Marci sur la Plaza or Izakaya Regashi offers a vibrant atmosphere and delicious sharing plates.
  • Casual & Delicious? Ohayo Café or Chai-Yo are excellent choices for a relaxed yet flavorful meal.
  • Authentic Local Experience? Parapluie, with its focus on local producers, or Bar Vivar for a taste of Spain.
  1. Pinpoint Your Preferred Cuisine:
  • Craving Asian? Options abound, from Oncle Lee (Chinese) and Pony BBQ (Korean) to JunJun (Filipino) and Chai-Yo (vegan Thai).
  • Italian Indulgence? Miracolo, Mercuri 109, and Estelle offer different facets of modern Italian.
  • Something Different? Le Godot's eclectic menu or Bar Vivar's Spanish tapas might be just what you're looking for.
  1. Consider the Neighborhood Vibe:
  • Mile End's Charm: Casavant offers a refined brasserie experience.
  • Little Italy's Heart: Parapluie is a gem for locally sourced dishes.
  • Plateau's Energy: Bar Vivar brings a slice of Barcelona.
  • Little Burgundy's Emerging Scene: Heni is making its mark.
  • Time Out Market: Climats provides a high-quality dining experience within a bustling food hall.
  1. Budget Alignment: While many of these are celebrated for quality, price points will vary. Generally, fine dining establishments like Sabayon will be on the higher end, while spots like Octo or Marci sur la Plaza might offer more budget-friendly options without compromising on flavor. Researching specific menus online can help manage expectations.

Insider Tips for Navigating Montreal's Hottest Tables

Securing a table at the new restaurants Montreal must try 2024 requires a bit of strategy. These are popular spots, and spontaneity might lead to disappointment.

  • Book Ahead, Way Ahead: For the most acclaimed restaurants, especially those on the Air Canada list (Casavant, Sabayon, Parapluie), plan to book weeks, if not a month, in advance. Use online reservation platforms like OpenTable or Resy, or call directly.
  • Off-Peak Perks: Consider dining during off-peak hours (earlier dinners, later lunches, or weeknights) for a better chance at a reservation and a potentially more relaxed experience.
  • Walk-in Wisdom: Some spots, particularly those with a bar area or casual concept (like Bar Vivar or Marci sur la Plaza), might accommodate walk-ins. Arriving right at opening or during slower periods improves your odds.
  • Explore Beyond the City Center: Don't limit yourself to downtown. Neighborhoods like Mile End, Little Italy, Little Burgundy, and the Plateau are rich with culinary innovation and often offer a more local, authentic feel. Juliette Plaza in Saint-Hubert, for instance, shows excellent food can be found outside the typical hotspots.
  • Embrace the Journey: Montreal’s public transport is excellent, and many neighborhoods are walkable. Factor in travel time and enjoy the city's unique charm as you move between culinary destinations.

Quick Answers: Common Questions About Montreal's New Dining Scene

Q: Are there good vegetarian/vegan options at these new restaurants?
A: Absolutely. Chai-Yo specializes in vegan Thai cuisine, offering a full plant-forward menu. Many other restaurants, like Ohayo Café with its vegan ramen, or Le Godot, known for its eclectic menu, are increasingly accommodating to dietary preferences with creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. It’s always best to check the menu online or call ahead.
Q: How expensive are these new restaurants generally?
A: Prices vary widely. Restaurants on the Air Canada longlist like Sabayon and Casavant will typically fall into the fine dining or upscale casual category, with higher price points. Many of Time Out's picks, such as Octo or Marci sur la Plaza, offer more moderately priced options, focusing on value and approachability. Bar Vivar is specifically noted for its affordable Spanish tapas.
Q: What's the best way to get a last-minute table?
A: For highly sought-after places, your best bet is to call the restaurant directly late in the afternoon on the day you wish to dine, asking about cancellations. Alternatively, some apps offer "notify me" features for specific times. For more casual spots, showing up right at opening time (5-6 PM for dinner) significantly increases your chances as a walk-in.
Q: Do I need to dress up for these restaurants?
A: Montreal generally has a stylish but relaxed dining culture. For fine dining spots like Sabayon, "smart casual" (nice trousers/dress, collared shirt) is appropriate. For most other places, including brasseries and casual eateries, fashionable everyday wear is perfectly fine. Comfort is key, especially if you plan to walk around.

Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits

Exploring the new restaurants Montreal must try 2024 is more than just dining out; it's an immersion into the city's evolving identity, a testament to its culinary ambition, and a chance to discover your next favorite dish. From nationally recognized contenders to local neighborhood gems, Montreal offers a diverse and exciting palette for every taste and occasion. Plan ahead, keep an open mind, and get ready to savor the innovative flavors and unforgettable experiences that define this incredible city’s dining scene right now. Bon appétit!