When people think of fine dining in Montreal, they often assume it all happens in the downtown areas. However, the West Island of Montreal offers a unique dining experience that’s definitely worth heading west for. Here are our picks for top restaurants in the West Island.
Go back in time to this ’50s-inspired diner and shake shack. Choose from a wide variety of specialty burgers, mac and cheese, chili cheese dogs and more, and enjoy it with your favourite milkshake. They have been featured in Today’s Parent ,magazine as one of the best family restaurants in Quebec, and they even won the “Best Imposter Burger” during the 2014 Burger week with their Southern Comfort Burger. This place is a must-go if you’re in the Marché de l’Ouest area.
Looking for a great steak? Look no further than 40 Westt. Located just off the TransCanada highway, hence the name, this steakhouse knows its meat, which is all on display at their open market. In addition to a perfectly cooked steak, this restaurant has an extensive wine and cocktail list. The upscale hotel-esque setting makes it perfect for an office party or for a romantic date with its live jazz band on Saturday evenings.
As the name suggests, this upscale Italian eatery truly serves modern, authentic and delicious dishes. Everything is prepared in-house, including the desserts, to ensure the quality and freshness of every dish. Located near le Marché de l’Ouest, this restaurant offers an intimate setting, and can accommodate large groups. La Verità also has a delightful exterior patio for those hot summer nights. The truth is out; La Verità is a must-try.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, be sure to check out Riccardo’s. The brother-and-sister owned restaurant is charming and intimate, and offers all the usual Italian classics at reasonable prices. Although the restaurant was renovated in 2012, it has not lost its family feel and charm. Try the tortellini rosé — it does not disappoint! Reservations are recommended.
Located on St-Johns, this Bistro serves up some of the best Southern comfort food in the west end. Gumbo, jambalaya, or mac and cheese, these classics will leave you nice and warm on any cold winter night. The staff is friendly and very accommodating to food allergies. It’s a quaint place with an intimate setting, perfect for date night.
Located in the heart of Pointe-Claire Village, Avocado Sushi is a great addition to the West Island dining scene. The small and intimate restaurant offers delicious traditional and fusion sushi rolls, all with exquisite presentation. The chef is a trained sushi chef, having worked for many years at The Willows in Hudson. Many villagers have even made it their go-to dining spot, as the environment is charming and the staff is friendly and personable. Reservations are recommended.
Another Pointe-Claire Village staple, this restaurant is one of the most reputable in the West Island. With its rustic setting in a historical building and its leafy, romantic patio, it’s hard not to love. The French inspired cuisine satisfies any palate and the service is nothing short of outstanding. Not in the mood to dine? Have a glass of wine or a cocktail at the bar. Be sure to reserve at Le Gourmand for your next anniversary or special occasion.
Another West Island staple is Le Surcouf in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. This French restaurant has been serving West Islanders upscale French cuisine since 1976. It’s a little pricier than your average West Island meal, but the quality of the dishes is worth every penny. The ambiance is casual and intimate, perfect for date night. To top off a romantic evening, go for a stroll along the boardwalk.
If you’re looking for great quality sushi, Aikawa Sushi on Sources is the place for you. On top of offering a very wide variety of sushi rolls, including chicken and vegetarian options, Aikawa offers a fully stocked bar and well-priced wine list. Planning an office party? Aikawa offers two large private rooms for special events. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their Mont Blanc — it will make your mouth water.