Canada triumphs in the first ranking of the best restaurants in North America
With three establishments in the top 10 and prestigious individual awards, Canada establishes itself as an essential culinary power during the inaugural unveiling of North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025.
It is a true recognition for the Canadian culinary scene that took place at Wynn Las Vegas during the inaugural ceremony of North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna. The country brilliantly demonstrated that its gastronomic excellence rivals the greatest American tables.
Quebec in the spotlight: two restaurants in the top 5
The French-speaking province surprised by placing not one, but two restaurants in the prestigious top 5 of the continental ranking.
Mon Lapin, in Montreal, achieves a spectacular 2nd place and the coveted title of best restaurant in Eastern Canada. This remarkable performance confirms Montreal's status as a world-class culinary destination. The establishment also stands out for the excellence of its wine list, as Vanya Filipovic, its wine director, was named best sommelier in North America 2025. A passionate advocate for natural and low-intervention wines, she also runs Les Vins Dame-Jeanne, which supplies Quebec with natural wines from across Europe.
In Quebec City, Tanière3 rises to 5th place and wins a double honor with the prestigious Art of Hospitality Award 2025, sponsored by Lee Kum Kee. This recognition highlights not only the culinary excellence of the establishment but also its exceptional service that sets a new standard in hospitality.
Ontario shines with Pearl Morissette
Restaurant Pearl Morissette, located in Lincoln, Ontario, completes the Canadian podium by taking 3rd place and the title of best restaurant in Central Canada. This performance puts Ontario on the international culinary map and showcases the diversity of Canadian culinary excellence, which is not limited to major metropolises.
Vancouver represents Western Canada
Although the specific details were not revealed in the top 10, Vancouver is among the highlighted destinations in the complete ranking of the 50 best restaurants. The West Coast metropolis thus confirms its reputation as a culinary hub, famous for its innovative fusion cuisine and privileged access to Pacific seafood.
Normand Laprise, a living legend of Canadian gastronomy
The most moving moment of the evening was undoubtedly the presentation of the Icon Award 2025, sponsored by Lavazza, to Montreal chef Normand Laprise. This supreme distinction recognizes his transformative impact on Canadian and international gastronomy.
Visionary behind the restaurant Toqué! in Montreal, Laprise is a pioneer who has championed local seasonal products for decades and has gained worldwide fame for his innovative cuisine. His approach has inspired an entire generation of Canadian chefs and has helped define the culinary identity of the country, rooted in the terroir and the excellence of local products.
A success that transcends borders
While Atomix, in New York, has won the supreme title of best restaurant in North America, the Canadian performance remains exceptional. With three restaurants in the top 10 - representing 30% of the elite ranking - Canada far exceeds its demographic weight and proves that quality prevails over quantity.
The rest of the top 10 includes:
- Smyth (4ᵉ) in Chicago
- Dakar NOLA (6ᵉ) in New Orleans
- Kalaya (7ᵉ) in Philadelphia
- SingleThread (8ᵉ) in Healdsburg
- Le Bernardin (9ᵉ) and Le Veau d'Or (10ᵉ) in New York
A well-deserved recognition for the Canadian approach
What distinguishes the honored Canadian restaurants is their shared commitment to local products, regional producers, and a cuisine that celebrates the identity of the terroir while pushing the boundaries of creativity. This philosophy, embodied by Normand Laprise for decades, now permeates the entire Canadian gastronomic scene.
William Drew, Director of Content for the ranking, emphasized: « This list reflects the culinary richness of the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. From pioneering institutions to bold newcomers, this ranking celebrates extraordinary diversity, creativity, and excellence. »
A rigorous and impartial academy
The ranking is based on the votes of an Academy of 300 members - regional experts, chefs, restaurateurs, journalists, and discerning foodies - spread across eight sub-regions. The anonymity of voters and the requirement to select at least three restaurants outside their region ensure the integrity of the process and make the Canadian performance all the more significant.
With this first ranking, Canada confirms its status as an essential gastronomic destination. From Montreal to Vancouver, passing through Quebec and Ontario, the country proves that its culinary excellence deserves a prominent place on the international stage. A national pride that already inspires the next generation of Canadian chefs.
