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Food trucks are still a relatively new phenomenon in Montreal — after decades of being banned, they finally arrived on the streets in 2013 (albeit with a bundle of restrictions about where the trucks park and how they operate).
This year, a total of 51 food trucks hitting the streets of Montreal, meaning there won’t be any shortage of snacking options scattered throughout the city. The first-Friday-of-each-month food truck rally at the Olympic Stadium is probably the best place to sample them, with almost all trucks in one location. Yet, the trucks are in constant rotation throughout the summer, with rotating through various designated parking spots in a number of boroughs.
The list below (presented in alphabetical order) represents the best bets — for complete information on all vendors and lots, as well as a full schedule, consult the official page of the Quebec Street Food Association (French only), or the social media channels for individual trucks.
Chez Tomio
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On the healthier side of things, Chez Tomio whips up a fusion of Japanese-Thai-Vietnamese eats, ranging from typical street foods (think takoyaki, pad Thai, and fried bananas) to a wonderful blend of flavours such as a “phoritto” — beef cooked in a pho-like soup and wrapped in a tortilla. [Schedule]
Dim Sum Montreal
One of the originals to launch during the pilot project of 2013, this dim sum food truck continues to stand the test of time with its classic dishes that warm the body and soul. Choose from a range of options, including, pork & shrimp dumplings, fried Imperial rolls, or assorted steamed dim sum. They also have bubble tea for those looking for something on the sweeter side. [Schedule]
Grumman78
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The truck that started it all (its owners campaigned for the city of Montreal to unban food trucks back in 2013), Grumman continues to serve up creative, fusiony tacos like the pork banh mi, blackened fish, or lamb curry tacos. It ain’t traditional, but it’s delicious. [Schedule]
Le Cheese Truck
Another OG from 2013, Le Cheese has been a crowd favourite from the start. With many food trucks trying to stand out with the latest, craziest food trend, Le Cheese sits back and serves up grilled cheese sandwiches and mac & cheese platters (in quarter- or half-pound portions) on a flat top grill that will make you remember the days when mom used to do it for you. [Schedule]
Le Gras Dur (Dasfoodtruck)
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With three different trucks roaming the streets, one-time Villeray restaurant Le Gras Dur makes sure to provide heart-stopping options to any who cross their path. The three trucks — comprised of the Schnitzel, Burger and Bacon trucks — offer a variety of high-cholesterol options including poutine cheeseburgers, smoked meat sandwiches, and of course, lots of bacon. A vegan burger option is also available. [Bacon Truck schedule/Burger Truck schedule/Schnitzel Truck schedule]
Le Smoking BBQ
This Texan-style truck is a fantastic one-stop-shop for all your barbecue needs. Serving up everything from pulled pork poutine and fried chicken to smoked chicken and ribs, Le Smoking BBQ has been a staple on the Montreal food truck scene for a few years. The brisket tacos are also well worth a try. [Schedule]
Mi Corazon Taco Truck
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Focusing on tacos that have touches of Mexico but with a big dash of fusion, this taco truck has been stellar about offering more gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly options in recent years. Consider grabbing the halloumi taco, “Dirty Martinez” poutine and the “Vato Loco” avocado options. Desserts such as small pies and doughnuts from Rosemont bakery Dei Campi are sure to please, too. [Schedule]
Mignon
Picture this: a paper cone stuffed with hand-rolled churros, fried then rolled in sugar, and served piping hot with a side of Nutella or dulce de leche — yep, it sounds good. This truck run by crafty confectioners also offers an artisanal, homemade nougat prepared on the spot that’s made up of freshly roasted almonds, eggs, Quebec honey, and dried fruit. [Schedule]
Ô Sœurs Volantes/Ô Sœurs du Lac
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Ô Sœurs Volantes has always offered up healthier forms of street food for its clientele, such as tofu meatballs and salads of all varieties. Its owners (who also own Ô Deux Sœurs on Rosemont) recently branched out with a second truck, Ô Sœurs du Lac, to offer seafood options such as poke bowls and crab cakes, plus some classic poutines. [Ô Sœurs Volantes schedule/Ô Sœurs du Lac schedule]
Pops Art
Specializing in what it calls “guilty-free pleasures”, Pops Art sells frozen fruit bars that are all-natural with no sugar added. With a wide assortment of delicious combinations such as choco-banana, coco-lime, smoked maple, popcorn and a spicy chili caliente, there’s a little something for all tastes. [Schedule]
Winneburger
Arguably the most recognizable food truck in town is Nouveau Palais’ Winneburger, which has been around from the very beginning. It’s a direct offshoot of the trendy diner on Bernard Street, which made its name with its burger — so unsurprisingly, it’s a popular choice for diners seeking out a classic cheeseburger or Chicago-style hot dog. [Schedule]