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.

Young chef-owner Joe Mercuri, former sous chef at Cube, has made a name for himself over the past few years. At the fashionable Brontë, he creates complex flavors and textures using market fresh ingredients in dishes such as sweetbread with shrimp, chorizo, pumpkin seeds and a shellfish emulsion, or guinea fowl with seared foie gras, red quinoa, dried cranberries, hazelnuts and cippolini onions. Desserts are just as complex and rewarding. Try the seven-course tasting menu for a solid overview of the chef's talents.

Perch at one of the tables on the terrace to people watch and nibble a croque-monsieur after a long afternoon of taking in the sights. Or stop for a late night caffeine injection from one of the imported, roasted-on-the-spot coffees before you head out for a night of dancing. Either way, you'll fall for the selections at this 20-year-old establishment that is most popular with the locals.

Michel Ross and Zach Suhl have become acknowledged masters on Montréal's dining scene. Their market-based cuisine incorporates French technique with the best of locally available produce such as fiddleheads and wild mushrooms. You might start with house-cured salmon or seared mackerel with cucumber and green beans. Main courses range from beef tenderloin with rapini and fregola to duck magret with eggplant and fava beans. For a sweet finish, vanilla panna cotta with basil syrup and passion fruit is just right. The menu is prix fixe ­ you get three courses for CAD48; alternatively, you can choose a multi-course tasting menu.

If you're in the market for a pick-me-up or just want a place to relax and indulge yourself, head over to Calories. This sweet shop provides indication of its temptations without apology. For years now, the place has been turning out homemade desserts and pastries ­ rich, flaky delicacies that patrons can't seem to get enough of. Whether you opt for cheesecake, a slice of moist cake or a fruit-topped confection, you'll revel in the pleasure it provides. A selection of beverages, including beer, is available, and you'll find sandwiches and appetizers if you need something to balance the sweetness of dessert. Popular with everyone, including calorie-immune college kids.