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.

Though technically featuring cuisine of Lyon, this cozy spot features a changing menu of seasonal delights from the comfort of rich boeuf Bourguignon in the winter to the baby vegetables of emergent spring. Lamb, veal and venison are prominent items as are the local lobster and goat cheese. A small, well-edited wine list is also available.

Much favored for its fantastic take on French/Québecois cuisine, Au Pied de Cochon has earned beaucoup praise for its chef-owner Martin Picard. If foie gras is your passion, this is the place to get it ­ as a topping for poutine, in a tart or terrine, on pizza, even in a burger. Bison, boudin and duck also play prominent roles on the menu. The dessert list is lengthy with something for every taste, from baked apple to dark chocolate pot de crème to rhubarb pudding to maple syrup pie. Lively, relaxed and very, very popular.

Rows of long tables set with bright red-checkered cloths and spread with a variety of traditional Québecois fare from cretons (pork pâté) to tourtières (meat pie), wild boar, turkey and sugar pie. If you can move after tucking into such a feast, take a guided tour of the grounds or join the dancing, music and games that have been a part of this establishment since 1913.

Eating maple syrup laced eggs, sausage and Canadian bacon is just one reason to take the trip out to Sainte-Anne des Plaines to visit the family Paquette and their lively fermette. During March and April, visitors can take tours, see the collection of small farm animals, tour the museum and see the dancing and singing on Folkloric Sundays.