On the Menu – Montreal: A Restaurant Story

A new exhibition dedicated to the city’s restaurant scene opens fall 2025

Montreal, May 14, 2025 – The McCord Stewart Museum is setting the table for a journey through the city’s culinary history with On the Menu – Montreal: A Restaurant Story. From November 26, 2025, to October 18, 2026, this new exhibition, inspired by Lesley Chesterman’s idea, will celebrate the extraordinary diversity of Montreal’s restaurant scene, from the 1960s to today. Featuring a wealth of archives, objects, photographs and audiovisual testimonies, On the Menu will explore the evolution of Montreal restaurants—from the bustling delis to the fine dining establishments—revealing their crucial role in shaping the identity of Montreal and Quebec. Visitors will have the chance to (re)discover legendary spots like Orange Julep, the Montreal Pool Room, Au Pied de Cochon and Toqué, and look back at the vibrant heyday of iconic establishments that have since shuttered, like the Italian supper club Buonanotte or the immersive Polynesian-themed Kon Tiki.

Collaborations with some of Montreal’s biggest culinary events, including MTLàTable and Montréal en lumière, will coincide with the exhibition, which was produced with the support of its institutional partner, the Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ).

“The rise and vitality of Montreal’s culinary scene since the 1960s has made the province, and the city in particular, a world-class foodie destination. Thanks to our remarkable collections, we’re able to tell the stories of the people who helped put it on the map and continue to keep it alive. The excitement around this project speaks not only to the deep connection we all feel for our local restaurants, but also to the pride and generosity of the people in the industry.” – Anne Eschapasse, President and CEO

“My first conversations with the Museum about doing an exhibition on Montreal’s restaurants took place ten years ago. I’m very excited to finally see this exhibition open this fall. I’m sure foodies will eat up the fascinating history of restaurants in Montreal and Quebec. The timing couldn’t be better to spotlight the generation that transformed the city’s food scene in the ’60s and ’70s, while also celebrating emerging talent and the enduring success of beloved restaurants.” – Lesley Chesterman, author, food writer and exhibition spokesperson

“The Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) is proud to contribute to the McCord Stewart Museum’s exhibition On the Menu – Montreal: A Restaurant Story, which aligns perfectly with our mission of sharing knowledge. Founded in the wake of Expo 67, the ITHQ is itself part of Montreal’s ever-evolving culinary narrative. We always welcome the opportunity to promote Montreal’s and Quebec’s living culinary heritage, an essential part of our culture, identity and international reach.” – Liza Frulla, General Director of the ITHQ

At the heart of culinary events

Several collaborations with restaurants and with some of Montreal’s biggest culinary events, including MTLàTable and Montréal en lumière, will take place during the exhibition’s run.

“Montréal en lumière is a celebration of Montreal’s food scene. The exhibition On the Menu – Montreal: A Restaurant Story fits perfectly with this goal of promoting the gourmet spirit of our city, and it will help set the tone for a unique, surprise-filled program.” – Patrick Bigras, Senior Vice-President of Hospitality, Groupe CH

“Montreal has long been a culinary capital in North America thanks to its rich heritage, joyful spirit, warm hospitality and diverse talent. For decades, the city has been known for its bold, vibrant food culture that’s deeply rooted in its identity. This exhibition is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to celebrate this exceptional know-how that continues to make Montreal’s influence felt across Canada and the world.” – Debbie Zakaib, Director, La Table Ronde