Local Gastronomy in Canada: An Expat’s Guide

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Canada, a vast North American country, offers a unique and diverse culinary experience that reflects its multicultural history and regional influences. For newly arrived expatriates, exploring Canadian cuisine is an exciting adventure that helps better understand local culture and facilitates integration. This guide will take you on a journey through Canada’s iconic flavors, from traditional markets to must-visit restaurants, including contemporary culinary trends.

Canadian Culinary Specialties: A Flavorful Journey Across the Country

Canadian cuisine mirrors the country’s geographic and cultural diversity. Each region boasts its own specialties, influenced by history, climate, and local resources.

Poutine: Quebec’s Culinary Icon

Originating from Quebec, poutine is arguably Canada’s most internationally recognized dish. This comforting meal consists of crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and a generous portion of brown gravy. Though simple in appearance, preparing good poutine is an art that requires quality ingredients and particular know-how.

Maple Syrup: Canada’s Liquid Gold

Maple syrup is inseparable from Canada’s culinary identity. Primarily produced in Quebec and Ontario, this golden nectar is used in many sweet and savory preparations. In spring, Canadians celebrate the maple sap harvest at “sugar shacks,” where you can enjoy traditional dishes accompanied by freshly produced maple syrup.

Salmon: The Treasure of Canadian Coasts

Canada is renowned for the quality of its salmon, whether Atlantic or Pacific. It’s prepared in various ways: smoked, grilled, as tartare, or cooked on a cedar plank using traditional Indigenous methods. Cedar Plank Salmon is a specialty not to be missed, offering a unique flavor experience with its smoky notes and cedar aroma.

Food Markets: At the Heart of Local Freshness

For expatriates eager to discover local products and cook authentic Canadian dishes, food markets are essential destinations.

Jean-Talon Market in Montreal

Located in the Little Italy neighborhood, Jean-Talon Market is one of North America’s largest open-air markets. You’ll find an impressive variety of local products: seasonal fruits and vegetables, Quebec cheeses, artisanal meats and charcuterie, maple products, and much more. It’s the ideal place to soak up Montreal’s friendly atmosphere and discover Quebec’s regional flavors.

St. Lawrence Market in Toronto

Considered one of the world’s best food markets, St. Lawrence Market is a true paradise for food lovers. With over 120 vendors, you’ll find everything needed to prepare a Canadian feast: fresh meats, fish and seafood, local dairy products, and a wide variety of artisanal breads and pastries.

Iconic Restaurants: Tasting Authentic Canadian Cuisine

For total immersion in Canadian gastronomy, nothing beats a visit to the country’s iconic restaurants.

Au Pied de Cochon in Montreal

Led by renowned chef Martin Picard, Au Pied de Cochon is a staple of Montreal’s culinary scene. The restaurant is famous for its hearty and creative dishes highlighting Quebec’s regional products. Don’t miss their famous foie gras poutine, a bold blend of tradition and haute cuisine.

Joe Beef in Montreal

Joe Beef, located in Montreal’s Little Burgundy neighborhood, is a renowned establishment offering inventive and generous cuisine. The frequently changing menu highlights local and seasonal products. The warm atmosphere and creative approach to Canadian cuisine make for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Aux Anciens Canadiens in Quebec City

To sample traditional Quebec cuisine in a historic setting, Aux Anciens Canadiens is the perfect place. Located in Quebec City’s oldest house dating from 1675, this restaurant serves typical dishes like tourtière, pea soup, and meatball stew. It’s a true dive into Quebec’s culinary history.

Contemporary Culinary Trends in Canada

Canada’s food scene is constantly evolving, influenced by new waves of immigration and global culinary trends.

Fusion Cuisine

In major Canadian cities, we’re seeing the emergence of fusion cuisine that blends Canadian culinary traditions with international influences. For example, in Toronto, you can enjoy dishes that combine local ingredients with Asian or Mediterranean cooking techniques.

Emphasis on Regional Products

More and more Canadian chefs are focusing on using local and seasonal products. This “farm-to-table” trend allows for rediscovering traditional Canadian ingredients and showcasing them in innovative preparations.

Table Etiquette: Adapting to Social Contexts

Understanding Canadian table etiquette is essential for integration and avoiding social missteps during meals.

In a Family Setting

Family meals in Canada are generally relaxed. It’s common to serve yourself and chat freely during the meal. Don’t hesitate to compliment the cook and offer to help clear the table.

In a Professional Setting

During business meals, the tone is more formal. Wait for your host to start eating before beginning your meal. Avoid controversial conversation topics and focus on courteous professional exchanges.

In a Formal Setting

For formal dinners, follow your host’s lead for utensil use. It’s good manners to wait until all guests are served before starting to eat. Remember to thank your hosts at the end of the meal.

Finding International Ingredients: Satisfying Cravings for “Home”

While discovering local cuisine is exciting, it’s natural for expatriates to sometimes want to cook dishes from their home country.

Ethnic Grocery Stores

In major Canadian cities, you’ll find many specialty stores carrying international products. For example, in Vancouver, the Chinatown neighborhood is filled with shops offering authentic Asian ingredients.

International Supermarkets

Certain supermarket chains, like T&T Supermarket, specialize in Asian products and offer a wide range of ingredients difficult to find elsewhere.

Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets are excellent sources of fresh local products, but they often also feature stalls offering international specialties, reflecting Canada’s cultural diversity.

Conclusion: A Rewarding Culinary Adventure

Discovering Canadian cuisine is an exciting experience that helps expatriates better understand their host country’s culture. From regional specialties to contemporary culinary trends, through local markets and iconic restaurants, Canada offers a culinary diversity that reflects the richness of its history and multicultural population.

By exploring local flavors, adapting to social dining codes, and finding a balance between Canadian cuisine and “home” dishes, expatriates can not only satisfy their taste buds but also facilitate their integration into their new life in Canada.