Montreal and Toronto. A rivalry as old as time.
Whether it’s the Habs and Leafs throwing down on the ice or the endless debate about bagels, public transit, or who has the better universities, people love picking sides.
So we asked MTL Blog readers on Facebook: What do you think Toronto does better than Montreal?
The responses were… surprisingly honest. Here were some of the most popular ones.
Making money
Plenty of folks agreed that Toronto is better at “attracting and building wealth” than Montreal.
As one wise user put it, “If you want to make friends, stay in Montreal. If you want to make money, go to Toronto.”
To be fair, Toronto also sweeps the floor with Montreal in the battle of rent prices, which is not something you want.
Losing (on the ice)
This answer was the most popular by a landslide.
Toronto’s got a rep for falling apart in the NHL playoffs, and with their Stanley Cup drought nearing the six-decade mark, people didn’t hold back.
One person said the Leafs good at “avoiding the Stanley Cup,” another mentioned “losing in Game 7,” and someone else nailed it with “golfing in May.”
We’re not saying the Leafs are cursed, but actually… yeah, we kind of are.
Being American
Montreal has long been praised for its European vibe — cobblestone streets, café culture, church bells, the works.
Toronto? Not so much.
Multiple commenters pointed out that Toronto feels way more American, from the city’s downtown skyline to its corporate energy and fast-paced lifestyle.
It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but if Montreal is wine on a terrasse, Toronto’s more Starbucks in a boardroom.
Being dog-friendly
A few folks gave Toronto props for being more pet-friendly.
Apparently, they’ve got more off-leash parks, better patio access, and less attitude when it comes to bringing dogs around the city.
Montreal’s made progress, with recent STM and restaurant patio rule changes, but we’re still playing catch-up.
Food
This one stings.
Montreal’s reputation as Canada’s culinary capital took a hit, with some arguing Toronto’s scene is better — or at least bigger.
Multiple people shouted out its incredible variety, especially the Asian food scene. One user pointed out that Ontario has more Michelin stars than Quebec.
We’re not giving up the crown just yet, but it’s clear Toronto came to play.
Road paving
Montreal roads… yeah.
This wasn’t even a debate. Compared to our potholes, sinkholes, and constant construction, Toronto’s streets are smooth sailing.
No one’s proud of this, but no one’s surprised either.
Having better weather
A few people noted that Toronto usually runs a few degrees warmer. One said Toronto has all four seasons, while Montréal only has two: “winter… and construction.”
We’d argue our summers hit harder, but there’s no denying Toronto has a slightly nicer climate on paper.
Everything
While plenty of patriotic Montrealers said “nothing,” more than a few commenters argued that Toronto is simply better at “everything.”
No follow-up, no explanation — just everything.
To that we say: bold move. But if you really believe it, maybe it’s time to start packing your bags.
