You probably don’t need us to tell you that $10 doesn’t go very far these days, especially in a foodie city like Montreal, where even a latte and muffin can blow past that budget.
But it turns out there are still a few places where a ten-dollar bill can buy you a satisfying meal. But you have to know where to look.
With that in mind, we recently asked MTL Blog readers on Facebook to share their favourite cheap eats in Montreal, and the responses did not disappoint. While some joked that you’d need a time machine or a microwave at home, others offered up tried-and-true options from across the island that include generous pasta portions and iconic deli sandwiches.
Here are 14 local meal hacks under $10, straight from Montrealers who’ve done the delicious research.
Wilensky’s
As one of the city’s oldest restaurants, Wilensky’s Light Lunch is a certified Montreal classic. You can still get the famous Wilensky Special (beef bologna and salami with mustard on a pressed roll) for under $6. Add a soda and you’re golden.
Address: 34 Ave. Fairmount O, Montreal, QC
Drogheria Fine
This tiny Fairmount takeout window serves only one thing: soft, handmade gnocchi in homemade tomato sauce. It comes in a paper container for $5 flat (cheese and chilli flakes are extra), and locals swear by it for a quick, comforting lunch.
There’s often a line at Drogheria Fine, but don’t let that stop you. It moves fast, and regulars will tell you it’s worth it every time.
Address: 68 Ave. Fairmount O, Montreal, QC
Costco
Is there anything better than getting well-deserved treat after a gruelling Costco haul? Apparently not, as more than a few of our readers raved about the chain store’s food court.
Two hot dogs and two drinks? Or pizza, fries, and soda — all for under $10. Sure, you’ll need a membership, but the value’s hard to beat. It’s probably the only place left where you’ll feel like $10 is too much money.
Address: Multiple store locations in Montreal
Marché Ocean Plus
This LaSalle grocery has a hot food counter offering a full rice or noodle dish with your choice of meat for just $9.15, tax included, and the portions are huge.
Address: 530 Ave. Lafleur, LaSalle, QC
La Friterie
One East End recommendation we got was La Friterie, a classic casse-croûte that still dishes out fries, hot dogs, and burgers at old-school prices.
Address: 11561 Rue Notre-Dame E Pointe-aux-Trembles
Première Moisson
It’s not the cheapest bakery in town, but one reader pointed out that you can still get a small sandwich and side salad combo for around $9. That’s ideal if you’re seeking a quick weekday lunch that doesn’t feel like fast food.
Address: Multiple locations in Montreal
Maestro SVP
Seafood on a budget? Maestro SVP on the Main often offers $1 oysters, along with $7 cocktails. It’s not a full meal unless you double up with something, but definitely an affordable snack.
Address: 3615 Boul. St-Laurent, Montreal, QC
Tête de Pierogi
This Rosemont gem serves handmade Polish pierogies at a great price. You can mix and match flavours, and some readers recommended the soups too, especially on cold or rainy days.
Address: 3814 Rue Masson, Montreal, QC
Ikea
Say what you will, but IKEA’s restaurant still delivers serious value. Meatballs and mash, salmon wraps, hot dogs — all cheap, and actually not bad. Plus if you’re an IKEA Family member, Thursday lunch is half price. Yes, really.
Address: 9191 Boul. Cavendish, Saint-Laurent, QC
Onigiri Shop
As one experienced Facebook user pointed out, two generously sized onigiri rice balls (with fillings like tuna, salmon, or chicken) will run you just under $10 here, making it a tasty and portable lunch option.
Address: Multiple locations in Montreal
Pizza Velat
While dollar slices are hard to come by these days, this NDG pizza spot delivers the goods without making a dent in your wallet. You can also get a 10-inch sub for less than 10 bucks.
Address: 6509 Ave. Somerled, Montreal, QC
Basha
Yes, even Basha made the list. With over a dozen locations sprinkled across the city, you can get a small shawarma plate or pita sandwich for just under $10. The same can’t be said for some of their competitors…
Pro tip: Some locations still offer student specials or combo deals if you ask.
Address: Various locations across Montreal
Nilufar
While it’s no longer operating at its former downtown location near Concordia, Nilufar’s reputation as one of Montreal’s best cheap eats lives on. The beloved Middle Eastern spot was known for its under-$10 falafel wraps, hearty lentil soups, and friendly service. These days, Nilufar runs as a catering service and occasionally pops up at local events. So, if you spot it, it’s worth grabbing a bite.
You can also call or visit their website to make an order.
Address: 5649 Chemin St François, Montreal, QC
Le Fullsun
A small grocery and café with a loyal following in the Village, Le Fullsun serves up rice bowls and sandwiches at super reasonable prices. Some of their Vietnamese-inspired dishes just squeak in under the $10 mark, especially if you skip the extras.
Address: 1423 Rue Montcalm, Montreal, QC
