Montreal is widely considered the birthplace of poutine and without question, one of the best cities in the world to eat it. From classic casse-croûtes to creative gourmet twists, this guide reveals the best poutine in Montreal, tested, compared, and loved by locals.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or searching for a new favorite spot, this article will help you find authentic, high-quality poutine in Montreal fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy done right.
What Makes the Best Poutine in Montreal ?
A great Montreal poutine is all about balance and tradition. The best ones always respect these fundamentals:
1. Fresh Cheese Curds
True Quebec cheese curds should squeak when you bite into them. No melted mozzarella ever.
2. Crispy Fries
Fries must be thick, golden, and sturdy enough to hold gravy without becoming soggy.
3. Hot, Flavorful Gravy
The gravy should be rich, salty, and poured hot enough to slightly melt the curds without drowning the fries.
Montreal stands out because many restaurants still source ingredients locally and follow traditional methods.
Best Poutine in Montreal (Top Local Picks)
1. La Banquise – The Most Famous Poutine in Montreal
📍 Plateau-Mont-Royal
🕒 Open 24/7
La Banquise is the most iconic poutine restaurant in Montreal. Known for its massive menu (30+ poutine variations), it’s a must-visit for first-timers.
Best to order: Classic poutine or “La T-Rex”
Good for: Tourists, late-night cravings
⭐ Rating: 4.4/5
2. Ma Poule Mouillée – Portuguese-Style Poutine
📍 Plateau-Mont-Royal
Right across from La Banquise, Ma Poule Mouillée offers one of the most unique poutines in the city, topped with Portuguese chicken, chorizo, and spicy sauce.
Best to order: Portuguese chicken poutine
Good for: Bold flavors, generous portions
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
3. Paul Patates – Old-School Authentic Poutine
📍 Pointe-Saint-Charles
A true local institution since the 1950s, Paul Patates serves a simple, classic poutine that many Montrealers swear is the best in town.
Best to order: Traditional poutine
Good for: Authentic experience, locals
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
4. Patati Patata – Friterie de Luxe
📍 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
A small diner with big flavor. Patati Patata is known for high-quality fries, rich gravy, and a cool retro vibe.
Best to order: Classic poutine + homemade burger
Good for: Casual dining, food lovers
⭐ Rating: 4.4/5
5. Poutineville – Build Your Own Poutine
📍 Multiple locations
Poutineville lets you customize everything: fries, gravy, cheese, and toppings. Perfect if you want to experiment while still respecting the basics.
Best to order: Custom poutine with beef gravy
Good for: Groups, picky eaters
⭐ Rating: 4.3/5
6. Chez Ma Tante – Late-Night Classic
📍 Ahuntsic
Famous for hot dogs, Chez Ma Tante also serves one of the best traditional poutines in Montreal — especially late at night.
Best to order: Classic poutine
Good for: Late-night food, locals
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
7. Greenspot Restaurant – Smoked Meat Poutine
📍 Saint-Henri
A beloved neighborhood diner offering comforting Quebec classics. Their smoked-meat poutine is a standout.
Best to order: Smoked meat poutine
Good for: Comfort food lovers
⭐ Rating: 4.4/5
Best Poutine in Montreal by Category
Best Late-Night Poutine
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La Banquise
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Chez Ma Tante
Best Authentic Classic Poutine
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Paul Patates
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Chez Ma Tante
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Patati Patata
Best Creative Poutine
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Ma Poule Mouillée
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Poutineville
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Greenspot Restaurant
Best for First-Time Visitors
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La Banquise
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Ma Poule Mouillée
Local Tips for Eating Poutine in Montreal
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Visit popular spots outside peak hours to avoid long lines.
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Try one classic and one creative poutine to compare styles.
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Eat it fresh, poutine is best enjoyed immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best poutine in Montreal ?
The best poutine in Montreal can be found at La Banquise, Paul Patates, Ma Poule Mouillée, and Patati Patata, depending on whether you prefer classic or creative styles.
Is Montreal the best city for poutine ?
Yes. Montreal is widely considered the top destination for authentic poutine thanks to local cheese curds, traditional gravy, and long-standing casse-croûtes.
How much does poutine cost in Montreal ?
Most poutines range from $10 to $18 CAD, depending on size and toppings.
Are there vegetarian poutine options in Montreal ?
Yes. Many restaurants like Poutineville and La Banquise offer vegetarian gravy and cheese curds.
If you want the best overall poutine in Montreal, start with Paul Patates for authenticity and La Banquise for variety.
For something different, Ma Poule Mouillée delivers one of the most flavorful poutines in the city.
No matter your taste, Montreal offers some of the best poutine experiences in the world.
