Every late winter, the Happening Gourmand invites Montrealers to (re)discover the dining spots of Old Montreal at reduced prices. For several weeks, neighborhood restaurants offer two-course fixed-price menus, both in the evening and at brunch. The 18th edition took place from March 6 to 29, 2026. Here's how this gourmet event works and what to expect for the next edition.
Happening Gourmand: The Next Edition
As of September 23, 2026, the dates for the 19th edition have not yet been announced. Tourisme Montréal indicates that the event takes place annually from February to March: keep an eye on the official Happening Gourmand website and its social media for the program as soon as it's released.
The Concept of Happening Gourmand: Fixed-Price Menus in Old Montreal
The principle is simple. Several participating restaurants in Old Montreal offer a two-course menu at a reduced price. It's the perfect time to try a place you've been wanting to visit for a long time, or to return to a classic at a better price.
The cuisines come from all over the world: wood-fired pizza, French bistro, Italian cuisine, steakhouse, sushi and izakaya, seafood… Each restaurant designs its own Happening Gourmand menu: check the menus online to compare the dishes offered before choosing.
Dinner Menus at $39, $49, or $59
During the 2026 edition of Happening Gourmand, evening menus were available at three price levels:
- $39: Bevo (wood-fired pizza);
- $49: Modavie (French bistro and live music), Jacopo (Italian), Vieux-Port Steakhouse, and Brasserie 701;
- $59: Maggie Oakes (grill, wines, and cocktails), Kyo Bar Japonais (sushi and izakaya), Gaspar, and Pincette (lobster bar).
The list of participating restaurants and prices may change from one edition to another: check the event's website before booking.
Weekend Brunch Starting at $29
Brunch enthusiasts are not left out: Happening Gourmand also has its weekend menu. On Saturdays and Sundays, several restaurants also offer two-course brunch menus. In 2026, brunch was offered at $29 at Vieux-Port Steakhouse, Brasserie 701, Maggie Oakes, Gaspar, Pincette, and Jacopo, and at $39 at Modavie, with live jazz. Some restaurants also offered boozy brunches with mimosas.
How to Book Your Happening Gourmand Menu
There is no ticket to purchase: to reserve your table, go directly to the website of the restaurant of your choice. As demand is often high on weekends, we recommend booking early. Be sure to mention that you are coming for the Happening Gourmand menu.
Practical Information
- When: 2026 edition from March 6 to 29; 2027 edition to be confirmed.
- Where: Participating restaurants in Old Montreal, near the Old Port and Champ-de-Mars.
- Price: Dinner from $39 to $59 and brunch starting at $29 for two courses (2026 edition).
- Reservation: Directly with each restaurant.
Our tip: take advantage of the outing to stroll around the neighborhood before or after your meal. The historical setting and atmosphere of Old Montreal are worth the visit, even at the end of winter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Happening Gourmand
When does Happening Gourmand take place?
The event takes place every year at the end of winter. The 18th edition was held from March 6 to 29, 2026; the dates for 2027 are yet to be announced.
How much does a meal at Happening Gourmand cost?
In 2026, two-course dinners cost $39, $49, or $59, and weekend brunches started at $29.
Is it necessary to book?
Yes, it is recommended. Reservations are made directly with the chosen restaurant.
What are other gourmet festivals in Montreal?
Montreal hosts several gourmet events, such as MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE in winter and La Semaine de la poutine.
Also Discover in Old Montreal
Read our article on the Dorsia restaurant, a chic spot on Notre-Dame Street, and visit Pointe-à-Callière for a cultural outing in the neighborhood.
👉 See the Happening Gourmand of Old Montreal page on Évasion Québec.
