Griffintown is a vibrant, up-and-coming neighborhood in Montreal, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse dining scene. With its mix of converted warehouses and modern condos lining the scenic Lachine Canal, this area buzzes with energy. It’s a hotspot filled with creatives, young families, and working professionals. As a local who works from home, I’ve had the chance to sample nearly every eatery in the neighborhood. Here are my top 5 picks for quick lunch spots to fit every budget—perfect for when you need to refuel during your lunch break, grab a bite on the go, or take something home to enjoy later.
Sandwicherie Sue
This sandwich spot specializes in incredible bánh mì! The menu offers a delicious variety, including spring rolls, soups, salads, and skewers, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too. My personal favorite is the Char Siu Pork—the roasted, caramelized pork is unbelievably tender, and the bánh mì is packed with aioli, cucumber, coriander, marinated carrots, radish, and Hoisin sauce, creating the perfect burst of fresh, vibrant flavors. More than just a sandwich shop, Sandwicherie Sue doubles as a grocery store offering an impressive selection of Asian products like sauces, dips, and grab-and-go options like ramen and noodles. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick, tasty lunch or stocking up on pantry essentials, this place is a must-visit.
Price Point: Bánh mìs range between $12-$14
Location: 218 Rue Peel, Montréal (with two other locations in the city)
Open: Mon-Sun 11am-9pm
Website: suefoods.com
Lulu’s Pasta Bar
For a fast, customizable, and mouthwatering pasta experience along Notre-Dame, Lulu’s Pasta Bar has quickly become a must-visit since its opening in January 2024. This modern spot strikes the perfect balance between convenience and quality, offering a wide range of fresh ingredients so you can create your own ideal pasta dish.
The process couldn’t be easier: start by choosing from three pasta types – Rigati, Campenelle, or Casarecce. Next, pick your sauce from tempting options like Tomato & Basil, Rosé, Creamy Pesto, or Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Finally, top it off with your choice of protein, whether it’s crispy bacon or tender chicken. You can also personalize your meal further with extras like caramelized onions, spinach, fresh basil, or feta.
If you’re after something quick and ready-made, Lulu’s also offers preset dishes. Their Tuscan Chicken pasta is a standout, featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmigiano Reggiano in a rich, creamy sauce. The service is warm and friendly, and their takeaway packaging is perfect for enjoying your meal by the canal, at your desk, or outside on their patio. Check out my full review and guide here!
Price Point: Build-your-own pasta starts around $13, with most options falling between $12-$16, depending on toppings and extras.
Location: 1346 Notre-Dame St W, Montréal
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 1pm-10pm
Website: luluspastabar.com
La New-Yorkaise Pizzeria
La New-Yorkaise Pizzeria in Griffintown serves up authentic New York-style pizza by the slice, ideal for a quick bite on the go. Their menu features a tempting range of freshly baked slices, from classics like Pepperoni with tomato sauce and mozzarella to more gourmet options like their Gorgonzola slice, topped with mushrooms, red onions, and creamy Gorgonzola cheese. The slices are generous, affordable, and ready in just a few minutes from their pizza oven. If you’re craving more, you can always opt for a whole pizza. Pair your slice with a cold St-Ambroise IPA, and don’t forget to finish with a classic Cannoli for dessert.
Price Point: Pizza slices range from $4–$6
Location: 309 de la Montagne, Montréal
Hours: Tue–Sun 11:30am–9pm, Closed on Monday
Website: www.lanewyorkaise.ca
Bagels Le Trou
Bagels Le Trou in Griffintown brings Montreal’s beloved bagel tradition to life with a fresh twist. Renowned for their hand-rolled, honey-water boiled bagels, they offer a menu that showcases both classic flavors and inventive combinations. Their sandwiches, crafted with your choice of freshly baked bagels, are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Try the Burgel, featuring ground beef from Boucherie Grinder, Havarti cheese, spicy mayo, and Boston lettuce. The Smoked Salmon bagel sandwich, made with eco-certified salmon from Charlevoix, cream cheese, and onion, is a must-try, while vegetarians will enjoy the Vegetarien, packed with hummus, avocado, feta, and fresh veggies. Bagels Le Trou doesn’t stop at savory options; their Cheesecake sandwich on a choco-cranberry bagel is the perfect sweet finish to any meal.
Price Range: $12–$14 for a sandwich
Location: 1845 rue William, Montréal
Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 am–6 pm, Sat–Sun 8 am–4 pm
Website: letrou.ca
Mano Figa Snack Bar Italien
Mano Figa, the little sister to Mano Cornuta, delivers a fantastic lunch menu with mouthwatering sandwiches on freshly baked focaccia. Their Italian-inspired creations celebrate quality ingredients and bold flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving. The Classico brings together mortadella, pancetta, arugula, artichoke spread, and a touch of truffle honey for a savory twist. For a vegetarian option, the Vegetariana is a flavor-packed delight with rapini, pecorino aioli, bomba sauce, and arugula. Meat lovers can indulge in the Sopressata or Prosciutto sandwiches, brimming with delicious ingredients like salami, marinated eggplants, and provolone. Alongside these hearty sandwiches, Mano Figa serves some of the finest coffee in Griffintown, making it an amazing choice for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
Price Range: $12–$14 per sandwich
Location: 988 Ottawa St, Montréal
Hours: 7 days a week, 7am–6pm
Website: https://www.manocornuto.com/mano-figa
Whatever you’re in the mood for, Griffintown has a quick lunch spot that’s bound to hit the spot. With everything from delicious sandwiches to fresh pasta and classic pizza, these local favorites are ideal for anyone on the go. So, whether you’re recharging during your workday or wandering through the neighborhood, make sure to check out these top picks for a tasty bite in Griffintown!
Pingback: Exploring Musée Imaginarium in Montreal