Monarque

Old Montreal's Monarque is a great destination to explore French bistro fare in a classic setting. Start with gruyere gougères or smoked cod fritters and move on to bouillabaisse, cornish hen, or their remarkable steak-frites—or even a burger served with those same frites, proffered in a paper cone, just for fun. 

Desserts are terrific here, including a mile-high pavlova. Service is smooth and professional at the bar, small tables, banquettes, or in the more formal restaurant section, which offers a weekday table d’hôte lunch. The middle brasserie section has a view of the bustling kitchen, so you can see all the action behind the scenes.