No gastronomic tour of Montréal would be complete without the authentic flavors of Québecois cuisine. Step into the promenade of the Hôtel Place d'Armes and discover the juxtaposition of earthy flavors amidst the urban chic of Aix. Here the curving banquettes and sheer fabric hangings create intimate spaces in which to enjoy a smoked rack of wild boar or roasted caribou. For those less adventurous, tender veal or duck breast make excellent choices. Each and every menu item bears the stamp of local Canadian production from vegetables to vinegar.

With more than two decades of experience behind it, this French brasserie is a Montréal favorite. Its relaxed but sophisticated ambience includes a central bar and a variety of decorative mirrors. The menu features traditional café fare, such as steak and frites, cassoulet, sausages and sauerkraut, and a selection of seafood dishes. When the weather's warm, the terrace invites guests outside to dine on wicker chairs and bask in the sunlight. In the evenings, the restaurant's second floor becomes a pub, serving draft and imported beers. Great for casual get-togethers.

This long-lived Jewish deli has been feeding Montréal well for over 50 years. Family-owned, the small place pulls in a wide variety of dedicated locals, who come for the terrific breakfast fare, including bagels, omelets (try the spinach!), sweets, and even chopped liver. Weekends, especially Sundays, are often crowded, but if you're prepared for the wait, you're in for some terrific food. And with years of experience, the staff is attentive and efficient, ensuring that all goes smoothly.

The Beaver Club, one of Canada's highest-rated restaurants, features classic haute cuisine and a quality wine cellar. The elegance is enhanced with Canadian art, fresh flowers, soft lighting and white table linens. The menu concentrates on beautifully crafted traditional dishes. Specialties include prime rib of beef, poached salmon, venison medallions, and terrine of duckling with pistachios and onions. Saturday nights offer patrons live music and dancing. Boulevard Rene Levesque ouest to Bonaventure Metro stop.

This stylish restaurant, aglow with polished woods and pale, sculptural walls, resides between the Ritz-Carlton and the Museum of Fine Art on one of Montréal's most fashionable streets. The restaurant offers fine Italian dishes, including a traditional osso buco, grilled veal, roasted duck, filet mignon, pan-seared red snapper, and marinated tuna. The pasta course includes such delights as rabbit-stuffed ravioli, wild mushroom risotto, and spinach and ricotta gnocchi. If you manage to save room for dessert (you should!), look to the iced praline parfait or white chocolate mousse for your sweet fix. An array of wines and liqueurs provides the perfect complement to each dish.