Beyond the Bagel: Discover Montreal’s Jewish Culinary Legacy on a Gourmet Food Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with moderate walking over city streets and sidewalks.
Overview
Explore Montreal’s Mile End and Plateau neighborhoods with Beyond the Bagel, a food tour that blends historic Jewish culinary traditions and savory tastings. Discover iconic smoked meat, Montreal-style bagels, and hidden local gems on this flavorful journey.
Beyond the Bagel - Food Tour (in English)
Eat your way through Montreal’s Jewish culinary history, both past and present.
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About This Adventure
Embark on a flavorful journey through Montreal’s Mile End and Plateau neighborhoods, where you’ll savor iconic Jewish dishes like smoked meat and bagels. Discover hidden culinary gems and the rich history behind them, guided by knowledgeable experts. This immersive tour promises a unique taste of Montreal’s vibrant Jewish food culture.
Enjoy the best Jewish food Montreal has to offer!
Duration
Three to Four Hours
About
Renowned worldwide for its unique take on Jewish cuisine, Montreal is the birthplace of countless Jewish foods, both iconic and overlooked. Experience the rich and delicious Jewish food culture of Montreal’s Mile End and Plateau neighbourhoods by visiting decades-old food institutions alongside new businesses that are revitalizing the city’s food scene. We’ll also travel to backyards and alleyways to uncover this city’s hidden Jewish food history and taste nearly forgotten delicacies. And of course you’ll get to feast on the classics like smoked meat and bagels, so make sure to bring a healthy appetite!
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
More info
- Created by a Jewish food historian and experts in Montreal’s Jewish history, this tour offers a unique take on the city’s Jewish food history through personal narratives, recipes, and photos gathered from restaurants, business owners and their families.
- Our various food tastings include some of Montreal’s iconic dishes: a Schwartz’s smoked meat sandwich, bagels from Saint-Viateur and Fairmount, and Wilensky’s Light Lunch. Come with a healthy appetite!
- Get an insider’s perspective on the stories behind Montreal’s Jewish culinary institutions, including well-known spots like Beauty’s and Moishes, foods from Montreal’s Hasidic community, and tastes of businesses that no longer exist.
- Learn about the resurgence of Montreal’s Jewish food scene and visit the establishments that are contributing to this movement.
- Explore the main streets and back alleys of the eclectic Plateau and Mile End neighbourhoods while learning the fascinating history of these traditionally Jewish neighbourhoods.
- Our friendly and knowledgeable tour guides are university-level researchers and will answer your questions and lead discussions throughout the tour experience.
- Please note that Wilensky's is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- This tour is not certified kosher/kashrut, and cannot provide vegan, gluten, or allergen-free alternatives. If you are vegetarian, please contact us in advance at tours@imjm.ca for more details. Food is included in the price of the Beyond the Bagel tour.
What to Bring
- All visitors should arrive with their own water bottles filled, and having already used the restroom; stops along the tour hold up the experience for everyone participating, and we want to make sure everyone enjoys the tour!
- The tour also does not include time for stops at businesses (unless there is an emergency)
- All visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Tour will run rain or shine.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Expect to cover several city blocks on varied pavement while exploring local neighborhoods.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tasting tour and walking sections of the experience.
Plan your visit outside Wilensky’s closed days
Wilensky’s Light Lunch is closed Sundays and Mondays, check availability if this stop is a must-have.
Consider dietary restrictions in advance
This tour is not certified kosher and lacks vegan or gluten-free options; contact in advance if needed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels
- Songbirds common to Montreal’s green spaces
History
Montreal's Jewish community began establishing itself in Mile End and the Plateau neighborhoods in the early 20th century, shaping much of the city’s cultural fabric today.
Conservation
The tour encourages responsible tourism by supporting locally owned businesses and educating visitors about preserving historic food traditions.
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Adventure Hotspots in Montréal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
For extended urban walking and standing during tastings.
Weather-appropriate layered clothing
Tour runs rain or shine so be prepared for Montreal’s variable weather.
Refillable water bottle
Keep hydrated during the tour’s walking and tasting portions.
Small backpack or bag
To carry personal items and any souvenirs comfortably.