It’s no secret that travelers today are seeking authentic local experiences, many are breaking bread with locals to get a real taste of their surroundings. From Poutine in the east to freshly caught Salmon in the west, each Canadian region offers up its own delicacies and home-town delights. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite places to fill up.
The Canadian Rockies, AB
Whether you’ve saddled up for a cowboy cookout or a fine-dining feast, there’s no denying the grade AAA Alberta Beef that will make its way to your plate. You’re in the heart of Canadian cattle country, and many meat-eaters maintain that grass-fed Alberta beef is the best in the world.
Montreal, QC
Rich with European flavours, Montreal is a foodie paradise. The Montreal Bagel is famous in its own right, known for its small stature and sweet flavor (compared to its larger, doughier New York counterpart). A night out in Montreal is incomplete without a big bowl of Poutine, so soak up the evening’s sins with a mouth-watering bowl of fries laden with cheese curds and rich gravy.
Vancouver, BC
Situated on Canada’s west coast, Vancouver offers some of the best freshly caught and sustainable seafood. Thanks to Vancouver’s incredible diversity, their dining scene is equally dynamic and varied. Splurge on a tower of crab and shellfish, dive into colorful sushi or sample a local Japadog (a hot dog dressed up with seaweed and Teriyaki sauce).
Quebec City, QC
Influenced by its rich European heritage, Quebec City is rife with dining options and quintessential French-Canadian delicacies. If your teeth can handle it, don’t miss out on a slice of sugar pie. If something savory is tugging at your heartstrings, indulge in Cretons, a cold meat spread perfectly paired with a crusty baguette. The piece de la resistance however, is Canadian Maple Syrup (and all other maple-related products, really!) – a must on everything from ice cream to oatmeal.
Okanagan Valley, BC
Rolling hills, blushing peaches, and vineyards as far as the eye can see. No, we’re not talking about Napa Valley, although British Columbia’s Okanagan region is sometimes touted as “The Napa of the North”. This is namely due to its hot dry summers, endless vineyards, and overflowing bushels of fruit. Pick cherries, sip wine, and discover why the Okanagan is one of Canada’s best kept culinary secrets.
Honorable Mention: Halifax, NS
The wild and rugged Atlantic Canada produces more than half of the world’s supply of American lobster. Skip the frozen food section and head to Halifax, Nova Scotia to experience this clawed delicacy fresh plucked straight from the ocean. Warm up with a bowl of bisque or crack open juicy tails drenched in butter and lemon. If you want to get up close and personal with these clawed crustaceans, visit the working lobster pound outside of Halifax where you can watch the lobster boats roll in with their catch of the day.
