Adventure Collective
Beyond the Market: A Local’s Food Tour Experiencing Montreal’s Hidden Culinary Gems - Montréal

Beyond the Market: A Local’s Food Tour Experiencing Montreal’s Hidden Culinary Gems

Montréaleasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly walking on mostly flat urban terrain.

Overview

Discover Montreal’s culinary scene beyond the usual tourist spots with "Beyond the Market." This 3-hour food tour uncovers hidden gems and authentic flavors across diverse neighborhoods.

Montreal, Quebec

Beyond the Market

All ages • Best Food Tour in Montreal! • 3 Hours • Locally crafted!

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About This Adventure

Embark on a unique 3-hour Montreal food tour that dives into the city's vibrant culinary scene beyond the typical tourist spots. Discover hidden gems in diverse neighborhoods, savor local delicacies, and learn about the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Enjoy a delightful mix of flavors and experiences with a knowledgeable guide.

Where to eat in Montreal? We’ve got you covered!

Duration

3 Hours

Montreal Food Tour Description:

Montréal is a culinary destination and has rightfully gained that reputation over the years. We’re not talking where to get the best bagels or poutine or smoked meat in Montréal. Let the other tour companies take you there….psst…Google will tell you. Our philosophy is if you’re eating a Philly cheesesteak on a Philly food tour, you’re on the wrong tour.

We visit the less touristy hoods around the Jean-Market on our food tour. From a single mom-no-pop shop we learn about our Latino community and sit down at a Salvadoran neighbourhood joint where locals go. We learn about the different communities that make up the area like the Vietnamese and Maghrebis and then pop into Little Italy for an iconic bakery when open.

The Jean-Talon market is the largest of its kind in the country. We try goat cheeses that are so farm to table they remind us of that scene from Portlandia. We visit a spice den, point out other great vendors, try some of the best charcuteries in the province as well as a few surprises like a forager. Depending on the season our stops here vary though all have one thing in common. They’re delicious local products. You’ll want to go back to the market after the tour.

In Little Italy we explore the streets and area, sip third wave joe and learn about our progressive coffee scene. We head to a bean to bar award winning chocolate “factory” that will showcase some of the best stuff Montréal has to offer, period.

It’s kind of like learn, eat, see and repeat 7 or 8 times with a local who is a professional guide that won’t put you to sleep.

We hand out our recommendations list for more of the best restaurants, cafés, bars, shopping and more. This is hands down the best food tour in Montréal!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Should we eat beforehand? How much food are you serving up?

Yes, this isn’t a blood test. Eat breakfast, and consider the start time of your food tour. Though the tastings vary in size the whole experience will be a hearty meal’s worth of food but you will be able to walk after.

  • Does this tour start and end at the same location?

We end about a 15-minute walk from our departure point. On our neighbourhood recommendation list, there will be a map or just ask your guide for help to get where you need to be. You’ll receive starting directions when you book.

  • Should I leave my guide a tip?

Yes, if they did a good job it is customary to drown them in money.

  • Can we book a private tour?

Sure!

  • What if I’m vegetarian, can’t eat dairy etc. Is this tour for me?

Do you still like food and seeing the neighborhoods? Then yes. Let us know of all SERIOUS allergies/restrictions when booking and we’ll do our best to accommodate at each of our food/drink stops. If you simply don’t like something, that’s between you and the food group.

Adventure Tips

Bring an appetite

This tour involves multiple tasting stops, so come hungry to fully enjoy the culinary variety.

Wear comfortable shoes

Explore city streets and local neighborhoods on foot for about 3 hours—comfortable footwear is key.

Check dietary restrictions

Notify the tour operator in advance to accommodate allergies or special diets for a better experience.

Bring a bottle of water

Stay hydrated throughout the tour as you sample rich foods and walk between stops.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban squirrels commonly seen along walking routes
  • Spring migratory birds around local parks

History

Montreal’s food culture is deeply influenced by decades of immigration, blending French, Italian, Jewish, and Middle Eastern traditions into its culinary fabric.

Conservation

This tour supports local artisans and small businesses, promoting sustainable tourism by highlighting neighborhood-based enterprises rather than large commercial venues.

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Adventure Hotspots in Montréal

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

To navigate city streets and uneven sidewalks comfortably.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Helps stay hydrated during the 3-hour walking tour.

Light jacket or layers

Spring mornings in Montreal can be cool, layering helps stay comfortable.

spring specific

Sunscreen

Protects against sun exposure during outdoor walking segments.

summer specific