Lea GagnonThe 12 best gluten-free restaurants in Montreal that prove healthy is delicious
I used to think “gluten-free” meant “bland and boring.” Then a celiac friend invited me out for lunch. Expecting a sad salad or dry, tasteless bread, I was instead treated to a meal so delicious.
From that moment, I was hooked. Now, whenever friends with dietary restrictions ask for recommendations, I’ve got a long list ready to share.
And of course, I don’t want you to miss out on the fun. Here are some of the best gluten-free restaurants in Montreal that will prove healthy can be delicious!
1. Siam Centre-Ville
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Website: http://www.restaurantsiam.com/
Address: 1325 Boul. René-Lévesque O
Contact Details: +1 438-380-0655
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
Siam Centre-Ville is the place to go if you want to go all out on your meal. Their menu boasts a variety of gluten-free options, all clearly marked on a special allergen menu—a nice touch, in my opinion.
One of the highlights of my experience was the khao soi. This creamy, coconut-based curry paired with tender chicken was an absolute flavour bomb. Although I would have preferred dark chicken meat over white, the dish remained incredibly delicious.
For something light, I recommend starting with their vegan spring roll or papaya salad. The portions are generous without being overwhelming.
2. Cantine Panella
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Address: 515 Rue Saint-Zotique East
Contact Details: +1 514-380-8064
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
Cantine Panella is a must-visit if you’re looking for an incredible gluten-free experience. This certified gluten-free gem offers fresh daily specials and baked goods.
Their pastries are in a league of their own. I couldn’t get enough of their muffins, mini pies, and cinnamon buns.
They also serve hearty sandwiches, like the asado and Butifarra. It’s packed with flavours that will keep you coming back for more.
But what truly surprised me was their selection of gluten-free beers—a rare find! While it might not be ideal for daytime, it paired wonderfully with their hot meal of the day.
I also recommend starting with a strong iced latte to enjoy with their bread. You can save the beer for later—you’ll appreciate it even more!
3. Krapow
Media credit krapow.ca
Website: http://www.pubquartierlatin.com/
Address: 4449 Mentana St
Contact Details: +1 514-719-9888
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
If you’re craving authentic Thai flavours that are completely gluten-free, Krapow is the place to be. Their gluten-free menu offers peace of mind for celiacs without compromising on bold, satisfying flavours.
For first-timers, their signature Krapow beef is a must-try. It’s a bit spicy, but the texture is spot-on. What really stands out is how perfectly it pairs with the accompanying baby bok choy.
And if you’re looking for variety, you can check out their poulet sambal Belacan or the vegan laksa. I tried the laksa, and it’s ideal for a hearty meal. This Malaysian-inspired noodle dish is loaded with mushrooms, bok choy, and chilli for a satisfying experience.
4. Bazar Café
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Address: 278 Rue Beaubien E
Contact Details: +1 438-799-0981
Operating Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Price: $$
At Bazar Café, nearly every menu item can be made gluten-free. This offers plenty of choices, from sandwiches to light lunch meals.
I especially enjoyed their brunch menu. The asparagus Benedict has a perfect balance of flavours and caramelized onions. The portion size was not too overwhelming.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore their North African and Levantine-inspired dishes. Plus, you can even pair their gluten-free bread with the merguez sausage for a mildly spiced and flavorful bite.
5. Cookie Stéfanie
Media credit cookiestefanie
Address: 272 Rue Saint-Jacques
Contact Details: +1 438-380-1560
Operating Hours: Monday, Friday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: $
Cookie Stéfani bakery offers treats that are ideal for celiacs. I especially loved their carrot cake and salted caramel cake—soft and flavorful.
The prices are reasonable, with pastries and cookies averaging around $5. Trust me, it makes it a great spot to stock up on snacks.
But this cosy café isn’t just about baked goods—they also serve excellent light meals like salads and sandwiches. I tried their pre-packaged salad, and the chicken paired well with the vinaigrette dressing.
If you’re in a hurry, grab a muffin or a ready-made meal to go. And seriously, don’t miss the blueberry Nutella muffin—it’s a must-try!
6. Kyo Bar Japonais
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Website: http://www.kyobar.com/
Address: 711 Côte de la Place d’Armes
Contact Details: +1 514-282-2711
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30 AM 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
Kyo Bar Japonais is the place for gluten-free traditional Japanese cuisine. What sets this place apart is their incredibly knowledgeable staff. Just let them know about your dietary restrictions, and they’ll handle everything with care.
One of my favourite dishes here is the salmon poke bowl, as the ingredients are always fresh. Aside from that, it’s surprisingly light despite being loaded with veggies.
If you’re after something more filling, their 30-piece sushi platter is a fantastic choice. Don’t forget to ask for gluten-free soy sauce—they’ll happily provide it upon request.
7. Arepera
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Website: http://www.arepera.ca/
Address: 73 Rue Prince-Arthur E
Contact Details: +1 514-508-7267
Operating Hours: Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
If you have celiac disease, you’ll love Arepera. Everything on the menu is 100% gluten-free. You can dine with peace of mind knowing there’s no risk of cross-contamination.
The restaurant specializes in Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine. My favourite dish is the Arepas a La Surena, filled with pulled pork and avocado salad. You can pair it with their fried plantains for a perfectly balanced meal.
Arepera also offers gluten-free beer—a treat for those who enjoy a cold drink with their meal. Their Glutenberg beer stands out for its refreshing taste.
8. La Cantina
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Website: https://www.lacantinamtl.com
Address: 2022 Stanley St, Montreal
Contact Details: +1 514-357-2173
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
Gluten-free Mexican food? La Cantina is the spot for you! Conveniently located downtown, it’s the ideal place to enjoy healthy meals while exploring the area.
Thanks to their use of corn tortillas, most of the menu is naturally gluten-free. Whether you’re craving shrimp or fish tacos, you can indulge without worry.
And if you think you’ve had the best guacamole, think again. Their version is creamy and best when paired with crispy chips.
What makes this place even better is its group-friendly vibe. Many of the dishes are portioned for sharing, so bring your friends along and enjoy a delicious dining experience.
9. Holder
Media credit restaurant.holder
Website: http://restaurantholder.com/
Address: 407 Rue McGill
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM | Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:30 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM & 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Price: $$$
If you’re looking for gluten-free food in a refined setting, Holder delivers. This sophisticated European brasserie is ideal for intimate dinners with a variety of gluten-free options.
Not every dish is gluten-free, but the menu clearly marks the ones that are. If you’re booking a reservation, you can mention your dietary needs, and they’ll gladly accommodate you.
The standout for me was their gluten-free onion soup. The wine reduction base adds a unique twist to the classic flavour. It’s also versatile enough to pair as a side with nearly any meal on their menu.
10. Ottavio St Leo
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Website: http://www.ottavio.ca/
Address: 6880 Rue Jean-Talon E
Contact Details: +1 514-257-7966
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM | Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
Ottavio is one of the best spots in the city for those with celiac disease. Their attention to detail is unmatched. In fact, they colour-code dishes and utensils in red to ensure zero cross-contamination.
I tried the linguine duck confit, and it was delicious. It’s nearly indistinguishable from its wheat-based counterpart. You can pair it with wine that takes the meal to another level.
The best part is that it’s a family-friendly spot. On Sundays, they serve free meals for kids. This makes it an excellent choice for great family dining.
11. Le Marquis Signature
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Website: http://www.boulangerielemarquis.com/
Address: 194 Saint-Paul St W
Contact Details: +1 514-543-4377
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: $$
Every item at Le Marquis Signature is 100% gluten-free. It’s the ideal spot for a safe and delicious dining experience for anyone with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
The crepes are a highlight—they’re made fresh right in front of you. If you’re particular about what goes into your food, watching them prepare it adds an extra level of reassurance and enjoyment.
Their prices are surprisingly reasonable. They’re more affordable compared to similar spots in the area. So, if you’re planning to take goodies to go, you might find yourself tempted to stock up on everything!
12. Lola Rosa Place-des-Arts
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Website: http://www.lolarosa.ca/
Address: 276 Rue Sainte-Catherine O, Montréal, QC H2X 2A1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 514-543-0613
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
The menu at Lola Rosa offers a big selection of vegan and gluten-free options, from hearty lasagna to juicy burgers. Its prime location near Place des Arts makes it the perfect spot to grab a meal before or after a show.
I started with their gluten-free nachos and chickpea fries—both fantastic choices to kick off a meal.
If you’re in the mood for something hearty, the house curry is a popular pick. It’s served with a homemade chickpea crepe and non-dairy raita.
As for drinks, skip the wine (for now) and try their raspberry lemonade. It’s refreshing and does a great job of cleansing your palate.
