Canada is renowned for its diverse food scene, and its street food culture is no exception. From iconic local dishes to delicious coffee and craft beer, Canada’s streets offer a taste of the country’s culinary heritage. Here’s a guide to the best street food in Canada, along with some of the best Canadian coffee brands and breweries to complete the experience.
1. Poutine – Montreal & Quebec City
Best for: Classic comfort food
No list of Canadian street food would be complete without poutine! This beloved dish, made from crispy fries topped with cheese curds and rich gravy, originated in Quebec and has become a national favorite. La Banquise in Montreal is a popular spot, offering over 30 unique takes on poutine. For a more traditional version, grab a bite from one of the local food trucks in Quebec City for an authentic experience.
2. BeaverTails – Ottawa & Toronto
Best for: Sweet street treats
BeaverTails are fried pastries shaped like, you guessed it, a beaver’s tail, and topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella. Originally from Ottawa, these treats have become a Canadian icon, with stalls in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Perfect for dessert or a mid-day snack, BeaverTails are a must-try sweet indulgence.
3. Peameal Bacon Sandwiches – St. Lawrence Market, Toronto
Best for: Savory Canadian flavors
A Toronto specialty, peameal bacon sandwiches are a unique twist on the classic bacon sandwich, featuring juicy Canadian back bacon rolled in cornmeal and served on a soft bun. The Carousel Bakery at St. Lawrence Market is known for its exceptional peameal bacon sandwiches, making it a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.
4. Montreal-Style Bagels – Montreal, Quebec
Best for: Freshly baked delights
Montreal is famous for its distinct bagels, which are smaller, denser, and slightly sweeter than New York bagels. Baked in wood-fired ovens, Montreal-style bagels are often topped with sesame or poppy seeds. Fairmount Bagel and St-Viateur Bagel are iconic spots to try these hand-rolled treats, perfect for an on-the-go snack or breakfast.
5. Lobster Rolls – Halifax, Nova Scotia
Best for: Fresh seafood street food
Canada’s Atlantic provinces are known for their incredible seafood, and Halifax’s lobster rolls are a must-try for any seafood lover. Served on a soft bun and filled with succulent lobster meat, these rolls are commonly found at local food trucks and waterfront stands in Halifax, allowing you to enjoy this delicacy with an ocean view.
6. JapaDog – Vancouver, British Columbia
Best for: Unique street food fusion
Vancouver’s JapaDog has taken the classic hot dog to the next level by blending Japanese flavors with traditional hot dog toppings. You’ll find hot dogs topped with teriyaki sauce, wasabi mayo, and seaweed. This unique fusion has become a Vancouver staple, perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new.
7. Bannock – Toronto, Ontario & Vancouver, British Columbia
Best for: Indigenous Canadian cuisine
Bannock is a type of bread originating from Indigenous Canadian cuisine, and it has become a popular street food option in major cities. This versatile bread can be served fried or baked and is often paired with savory toppings like pulled pork or smoked salmon. Bannock Queen in Vancouver and Pow Wow Cafe in Toronto are excellent places to try this delicious Indigenous staple.
Top Canadian Coffee Brands for Street Strolling
To accompany your street food adventures, Canada has some excellent coffee brands that showcase the country’s rich coffee culture. Here are a few Canadian coffee brands that you can try from cafés or pick up at local shops.
- Tim Hortons – Canada’s quintessential coffee brand, loved by locals for its simple, accessible flavors.
- Pilot Coffee Roasters (Toronto) – Known for ethically sourced beans and innovative brewing, Pilot Coffee Roasters is a hit among coffee enthusiasts.
- 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters (Vancouver) – Offering small-batch, specialty coffee with a focus on sustainability, 49th Parallel is a Canadian favorite.
- Kicking Horse Coffee (Invermere, BC) – This organic, fair-trade coffee is renowned across Canada for its bold flavors and environmental commitment.
- Balzac’s Coffee Roasters (Ontario) – Inspired by Parisian café culture, Balzac’s has several locations across Ontario and is known for its classic European-style coffee.
Best Canadian Breweries for Craft Beer Lovers
Round off your Canadian street food experience by sampling some of the best local beers. Canada’s craft beer scene is thriving, with breweries across the country offering diverse, innovative brews.
- Steam Whistle Brewing (Toronto) – Known for its refreshing pilsners and iconic green bottles, Steam Whistle is a must-try for anyone visiting Toronto.
- Alexander Keith’s Brewery (Halifax) – This historic brewery is famous for its IPA, and their brewery tours are a great way to immerse yourself in the Nova Scotian beer scene.
- Granville Island Brewing (Vancouver) – This Vancouver-based brewery offers a variety of craft beers, from light lagers to hoppy IPAs, often inspired by the West Coast’s flavors and landscapes.
- Collective Arts Brewing (Hamilton, Ontario) – Known for combining art and beer, Collective Arts supports artists by showcasing their artwork on their cans, making their beers a feast for the eyes and palate.
- Big Rock Brewery (Calgary) – One of Alberta’s original craft breweries, Big Rock offers an array of unique beers, including lagers, IPAs, and seasonals, ideal for pairing with street food.
Conclusion
Canada’s street food culture reflects its diversity and creativity, from classic dishes like poutine and peameal bacon sandwiches to innovative flavors like Japanese-style hot dogs and fresh lobster rolls. Pair these with some of Canada’s best Canadian coffee brands or a refreshing craft beer from one of the country’s best Canadian breweries for the complete experience. Exploring Canada’s street food scene is a journey through the country’s flavors, and each city offers unique tastes that will make your visit truly memorable!
