"A New French Bistro in a Rejuvenated Neighborhood Le Valois was a great discovery not only for my palate, but also geographically. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve wasn't a neighborhood I had frequently visited, as it suffered from a sort of shady reputation. But efforts at revitalization (some would call it gentrification, but that's another topic entirely) have made the area more welcoming. Such efforts include Le Valois, one of the best French bistros in Montreal . I wish I could recommend one dish in particular, but in my party of four, everyone seemed to love their meal equally. I guess it's fair to say that everything on the menu is delicious. For those on a budget, Le Valois offers a 2-course late-night menu for just $20 after 9:30pm."

"L'Express, on rue St-Denis in the Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood, opened in 1980 and has about it the air of a beloved institution. Indeed, with its timeless style, it feels even older than it is. This popular spot serves classic renditions of bistro fare—steak tartare, bone marrow, onion soup—into the early morning hours (2 a.m. except for Sundays, when it closes at 1 a.m.). When the kitchen ventures into new territory, the results are impressive. The spaghetti with mushrooms is unconventional in its presentation (topped with a healthy serving of arugula)—one of those dishes you try on the road and then want to re-create at home. Reservations recommended."

"Ze French Touch in Montreal Grenadine is a BYOW (bring your own wine) type of restaurant that focuses on flavors and dining experience rather than on fancy decor or amazon waitresses. Using local ingredients only, chefs Alex Duchastel and Nicolas Beaupré have tried to craft a menu where international flair, oriental spices, and a French touch are the main ingredients of each dish. And to this I say: mission accomplished. The duck magret in a rich cherry sauce is one of the best dishes I've ever had in my life. If it's on the menu, order it."

"Another Delicious French Bistro sur le Plateau Les Héritiers is entirely devoted to food. Here the decor is stripped down to the bare essentials and the waiters are courteous and quite helpful. If all French bistros were like this, I would be poor, but very happy. Make sure to try the legendary pastis prawns or the grilled tuna—both quite delightful and surprisingly tasty for what is essentially licorice with fish. They also offer a tasting menu that includes a soup, an entrée, a main course, a trou Normand, a main dish, and, of course, dessert. For big appetites, this is a great idea!"

"A Taste of Change in Montreal's Angus Neighborhood Station F is the epitome of a neighborhood restaurant. It opened in 2006 in what used to be a strictly working-class, industrial neighborhood, where the vast majority of residents worked for the nearby Angus railcar manufacturing facility. The area is now being rejuvenated, and Station F is definitely part of the refreshing wave. The restaurant offers a simple twist on French bistro staples, with an affordable menu du jour and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu changes seasonally and is almost exclusively composed of locally sourced ingredients. The beef tartare is very tasty and quite surprising, with hints of harissa for a good kick. Bon appétit!"

"Mix with the Cool Crowd in Outremont What started out as a crazy musing during a family dinner has turned out, surprisingly, to be one of Montreal 's most appreciated establishments. Indeed, when Francine Brûlé mentioned that she was thinking of taking on a new project, nobody could predict the huge success Les Enfants Terribles would be become—not even her. And yet, with the help of chef Guillaume Daly and partner Serge Bruneau, this Outremont eatery is now a frequent hideout for the cool, hip, urban youngsters of Montreal. It's a place where people go to see and be seen, but most importantly, to have a good time. Les Enfants Terribles revisits the classics of French cuisine, all while crafting innovative dishes with a festive, flavorful, and unorthodox touch. For example? Chorizo corndogs, gouda mac'n'cheese, shepherd's pie with truffle oil, and a coco pana cotta. I have visited this restaurant many, many times and not once was I disappointed."