Canada is a country rich in cultural diversity—and nowhere is this better reflected than in its food. From the Atlantic coast to the Pacific, Canada serves up a culinary adventure that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re a foodie traveler planning your next trip or a busy professional looking to expand your palate, these top 10 must-try dishes in Canada will delight your taste buds and give you a glimpse into what makes Canadian cuisine so unique.
Prepare to indulge in everything from iconic comfort dishes to regional delicacies that showcase the country’s diverse heritage.
1. Poutine
You simply cannot discuss Canadian cuisine without mentioning poutine. This decadent dish, originating in Quebec, is the ultimate comfort food. It consists of crispy golden fries topped with fresh cheese curds and smothered in rich brown gravy. Variations of poutine add interesting toppings like pulled pork, smoked meat, or even lobster. It’s widely available across Canada, making it a must-try for both locals and travelers. Look for it in authentic Quebec diners, food trucks, or upscale restaurants offering their take on this iconic dish.
Where to try it: La Banquise in Montreal is legendary for its creative poutine options.
2. Butter Tarts
A flaky pastry crust filled with gooey, sweet filling—Canadian butter tarts are as iconic as they are delicious. Origins of this dessert can be traced back to rural Ontario, where it remains a time-honored treat. While the classic recipe includes just sugar, butter, and eggs, modern adaptations incorporate ingredients like raisins, pecans, or even a splash of maple syrup. Every bite delivers buttery sweetness that feels like a warm hug.
Where to try it: Bakeries in Ontario, particularly during butter tart festivals.
3. Bannock
Bannock is a simple yet hearty dish with deep roots in Indigenous cuisine. Traditionally made with simple ingredients—flour, water, and lard—this versatile bread can be baked, fried, or grilled. Today’s versions often incorporate modern twists, such as sweet variations with berries or savory ones filled with herbs and cheese. Bannock offers an authentic taste of Canada’s First Nations culinary traditions.
Where to try it: Indigenous-owned cafes and restaurants, such as Kekuli Cafe in British Columbia.
4. Tourtière
Tourtière is a savory meat pie that’s a staple in French-Canadian households, particularly during the holiday season. The flaky crust embraces a fragrant filling of ground pork, beef, or game, often seasoned with spices like cinnamon and cloves. Whether you’re looking for a slice of history or a hearty meal on a cold evening, tourtière offers a satisfying taste of Quebec’s culinary heritage.
Where to try it: Jean-Talon Market in Montreal often has bakeries selling artisanal tourtières.
5. Nanaimo Bars
Named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, this no-bake dessert offers three decadent layers. The base is made of chocolate, coconut, and graham crackers, followed by a smooth vanilla custard layer, and finally topped with a glossy layer of chocolate. Nanaimo bars are perfect for those with a sweet tooth and are a favorite dessert across Canada.
Where to try it: Local bakeries and cafes in British Columbia. Or better yet, visit Nanaimo for the full experience!
6. Montreal-Style Bagels
Move over, New York—Montreal-style bagels are gaining the upper hand. Hand-rolled, boiled in honey-sweetened water, and baked in wood-fired ovens, these bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their American counterparts. Popular variations include sesame, poppy seed, and cinnamon raisin. Locals often enjoy them with a schmear of cream cheese or smoked salmon.
Where to try it: Schwartz’s Deli and Fairmount Bagel in Montreal are must-visits for bagel lovers.
7. Canadian Lobster Rolls
Canada’s maritime provinces, particularly Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, are renowned for their fresh seafood. The Canadian lobster roll is a standout dish, featuring succulent lobster meat tossed with a touch of mayo, celery, and lemon juice, all tucked into a buttery bun. Light yet flavorful, it’s a coastal classic you can’t miss.
Where to try it: Check out the seafood shacks along Nova Scotia’s coastline for the freshest rolls.
8. Maple Syrup Treats
Maple syrup isn’t just a topping in Canada—it’s a way of life. Beyond pancakes and waffles, maple syrup features in everything from maple candies and cookies to glazes and marinades. For a traditional treat, try “tire d’érable” (maple taffy), made by pouring hot maple syrup over snow and then rolling it onto sticks for a chewy delight.
Where to try it: Quebec’s sugar shacks are the best destinations for all things maple.
9. Peameal Bacon Sandwich
This Canadian classic might not be as well-known globally as poutine, but it’s well-loved by locals. Peameal bacon is a lean cut of pork loin cured in brine and rolled in cornmeal. Often served in sandwich form, it’s a salty, juicy, and perfectly satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Where to try it: Carousel Bakery in Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market is famous for its peameal bacon sandwiches.
10. Cedar-Plank Salmon
Cedar-plank salmon is a quintessential dish from Canada’s West Coast, inspired by Indigenous cooking techniques. Fresh salmon is placed on a soaked cedar plank and grilled or baked, absorbing the smoky flavor of the wood. It’s often seasoned with a blend of spices or served with a light glaze. It’s a beautiful fusion of nature, tradition, and bold flavors.
Where to try it: Coastal restaurants in British Columbia, particularly in Vancouver or Tofino.
Savor the Flavors of Canada
Canada’s food scene is as diverse as its people, offering something for everyone—from those who savor sweet treats to those who crave savory creations. Each of these top 10 dishes tells a story of Canada’s landscapes, cultures, and traditions, making them essential stops on any foodie’s itinerary.
If you’re ready to start your Canadian culinary adventure, what dish will you try first? Whether it’s cheesy poutine in Quebec or a sweet Nanaimo bar in British Columbia, these dishes will leave you craving more. And for those who can’t travel just yet, try recreating some of these classics at home to get a taste of Canada on your plate.
