Arguably Montréal's best Lebanese, Aux Lilas, which opened in1980, has earned a solid contingency of loyal regulars. You can come with a date or a small group and order nothing but mezzes, or you can opt for the prix fixe menu. Either way, you will eat well, and affordably. Be sure to try the tabouli, falafel and hummus, all of which are perfect renditions of the popular favorites. Qebbeh, sfiha and mouhammara are excellent as well.

Hungry for breakfast off the beaten culinary path? Step into Byblos and you may never go back to traditional eggs and bacon again. Steeped in the culinary tradition of Iran and the middle East, even the humble omelette is elevated to exotic with cardamom and rose petals. Sip mint tea and dip poppy seed bread in ginger jam or try the sweetbreads awash in the natural light from the tall windows. The place is popular so come early, or make a reservation to avoid a wait.

Another fabulous destination for fans of Lebanese cuisine, Daou has an established track record and a strong fan base. There are lots of appetizers and the main dishes are served in whole or half portions, so you can sample lots of flavors without overstuffing yourself. The standard dishes are exemplary (falafel, kebabs, tabbouleh, hummus, baba ghanouj), but lamb and beef dishes are excellent as well. Rumor has it that Montréal crooner Celine Dion is a big fan.