Canada’s street food scene offers an array of delicious and uniquely Canadian flavors. From coast to coast, you’ll find street foods that celebrate traditional and contemporary influences, each bite providing a taste of Canadian culture. Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, here are seven street foods you should try on your next Canadian adventure.
1. Poutine – A True Canadian Classic
Poutine is an iconic Canadian street food consisting of crispy fries, cheese curds, and rich brown gravy. Originating in Quebec, this comfort food has spread across the country, evolving with various twists like pulled pork, truffle oil, or spicy sriracha.
Where to Find It: Poutine is widely available from food trucks and restaurants in almost every major city. Montreal is especially known for its poutine, with popular spots like La Banquise offering many creative versions. Pair your poutine with a craft beer from one of the best Canadian breweries to complete your experience!
2. BeaverTails – Canada’s Sweet Street Treat
BeaverTails are fried, doughy pastries shaped like a beaver’s tail, topped with an array of delicious toppings. Some of the most popular toppings include cinnamon sugar, chocolate hazelnut spread, and even maple syrup for a Canadian twist.
Where to Find It: You can find BeaverTails at food stands in popular tourist areas like Banff, Ottawa’s Byward Market, and nearby ski resorts. These sweet treats are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!
3. Peameal Bacon Sandwich – A Toronto Staple
Often called “Canadian bacon,” peameal bacon is cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal and is a popular choice for breakfast sandwiches. The Peameal Bacon Sandwich is a simple but flavorful creation usually served on a soft bun with mustard.
Where to Find It: Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market is the go-to spot for an authentic Peameal Bacon Sandwich. Many restaurants in the area offer this delicacy, giving it a traditional touch that pairs well with a cup of coffee from one of the best Canadian coffee brands.
4. Halifax Donair – East Coast Flavor
The Halifax Donair is a beloved Atlantic Canadian street food consisting of spiced beef wrapped in pita bread and topped with tomatoes, onions, and a sweet, garlicky sauce. This unique dish offers a Canadian twist on the traditional doner kebab.
Where to Find It: Halifax is the best place to try a genuine donair, but you can find it in many Canadian cities. It’s perfect for a late-night bite and pairs nicely with a crisp, cold lager from a local brewery.
5. Nanaimo Bars – Sweet Layers of Canadian Goodness
Originating in Nanaimo, British Columbia, this no-bake dessert features three layers: a crumbly base, a custard-flavored middle, and a chocolate ganache top. Nanaimo bars are often sold at bakeries, but they’ve become a popular street food in many cities.
Where to Find It: Try Nanaimo bars at local bakeries and food stalls in British Columbia, especially around Vancouver and Nanaimo. Grab one alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee from one of Canada’s best coffee brands for a truly satisfying treat.
6. Butter Tarts – An Iconic Canadian Dessert
Butter tarts are mini pastries filled with a gooey, buttery, and sweet filling. These tarts are beloved across Canada and are often found in bakeries and at farmers’ markets. Some variations add raisins or pecans, but the classic recipe remains a favorite.
Where to Find It: You can find butter tarts at bakeries, festivals, and farmers’ markets across Canada. In Ontario, there’s even a “Butter Tart Trail” dedicated to exploring the best butter tarts in the region. They make a perfect pairing with coffee, so consider trying one with a brew from the best Canadian coffee brands.
7. Bannock – A Traditional Indigenous Food
Bannock is a simple bread, traditionally made by Indigenous communities, that has become a popular street food. It can be fried or baked and served as a savory or sweet treat. Some vendors serve bannock as a sandwich or with toppings like maple syrup and berries.
Where to Find It: Bannock is commonly available at Indigenous-owned food trucks, restaurants, and festivals. Bannock Express in Vancouver and Kekuli Cafe in British Columbia are known for their unique variations on this traditional dish.
Discovering Traditional Canadian Foods and Restaurants
In addition to these must-try street foods, Canada is home to many traditional Canadian foods and restaurants that serve authentic flavors. Dishes like tourtière, a French-Canadian meat pie, and split pea soup are some comfort foods found in restaurants specializing in Canadian cuisine. Many traditional dishes can be paired with a beer from the best Canadian breweries, giving you a true taste of Canadian heritage.
Best Canadian Breweries to Try Along the Way
No Canadian street food adventure would be complete without sampling some of the best Canadian breweries. Many breweries offer unique, locally inspired flavors that pair well with the country’s culinary offerings. Some top recommendations include:
- Unibroue in Quebec – Known for Belgian-inspired ales
- Steam Whistle in Toronto – Famous for its crisp pilsner
- Phillips Brewing in British Columbia – Offers creative seasonal brews
Best Canadian Coffee Brands for a Caffeine Boost
Whether it’s an early morning or an afternoon break, Canada boasts some incredible coffee roasters. Trying coffee from the best Canadian coffee brands adds an extra layer to your food adventure:
- Tim Hortons – A Canadian classic, found almost everywhere
- Kicking Horse Coffee – Fairtrade and organic, based in the Rockies
- 49th Parallel – A Vancouver favorite known for its small-batch roasting
Plan Your Canadian Food Adventure
From sweet treats to savory snacks, Canada’s street food scene has something for every taste. Whether you’re diving into traditional Canadian foods and restaurants or exploring the country’s best Canadian breweries and coffee brands, your taste buds are in for an unforgettable experience. So grab your appetite and hit the streets—Canada’s street food awaits!
