Montreal Food Tour: Exploring the Marché Jean Talon

Discover North America's largest open-air market with a Québécois food expert

The Finer Details
In what other city do the culinary specialities run the gamut from tire sur la neige (a taffy made by pouring boiling hot maple syrup onto fresh snow) to French fries smothered in gravy and cheese curds? In this Montreal food tour, we'll discover one of North America's most distinct food scenes. Focused on the Marché Jean Talon and led by a food writer or chef, we'll dive into the local flavors and ingredients, learning the history and culture of Canada's foodie paradise.

Montreal Food Tour

This exploration of the Marché Jean Talon, North America’s largest open-air market, will delve deeply into Quebec's various gastronomic wonders. Here we will admire farm fresh produce, homemade cheeses and sausages, and taste the fabulous fungus of a local mushroom forager.


Stopping at the Marché des Saveurs, which exclusively features products from Québec, our guide will highlight varied maple goods, cider, and cranberry alcohol. Our food foray may also include locally made spices and olive oils, artisanal bread, and maple salmon bites from a fishmonger whose wares come directly from the beautiful Gaspésie Peninsula. 

Take Aways

After our culinary expedition through the Marché Jean Talon, our senses will be intimately acquainted with the tastes and aromas specific to Quebec gastronomy. Fair warning: baggage may smell of smoked meat upon departure.

Note: Please include any dietary restrictions or allergies in your trip notes, and our guide will adapt accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions


  • Do the tastings included in the tour replace a full meal?
    Yes, the tastings replace a full meal. Clients generally can get up to three savory tastings, one sweet, and a drink.

Accessibility

We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.

Cancellation Policy

Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.

Book a Tour
Where You’ll Go

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

  • Marché Jean Talon
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
  • English-speaking expert guide
    Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
  • Intentionally sized groups
    A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
  • Tickets and entrance fees
    All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
  • Headsets
    Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
    We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
  • Food and drink
    Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
  • Transportation to and from the meeting point
    Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
  • Hotel pickup or drop-off
    Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Map of Montreal Food Tour: Exploring the Marché Jean Talon general meeting point area

Make the Most of Your Tour

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:
  • Wear comfortable footwear
  • Check the weather and dress appropriately
  • Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
  • Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
  • Bring firearms or weapons
  • Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
  • Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always contact us.

Don’t just take our word for it

77 Reviews

Mayssam is very well read, she knows her stuff and knows the people at the market. She is very friendly easy to talk to. I felt enriched in food, taste, and flavor. I was very comfortable. Thank you for a very rewarding experience. The only thing I wished was different is my wife meeting Mayssam or tour guide. Great tour!!!

Ronny is wonderful! The tour was tasty, informative and most importantly fun! We highly recommend it to foodies and others as well.

Thanks so much, Melissa. The tour was much fun, very interesting and delicious. You are extremely knowledgeable as well as gracious. We had a beautiful, grand and delicious day.

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