Where to Break Your Fast This Ramadan

Elsie Duque Hills
Staff Writer

Few meals are as anticipated as the first bite after a day of fasting. Ramadan Mubarak to all celebrating students! The ninth month of the Islamic calendar highlights the significance of reflection and community in a universal, uniting manner. From dawn till dusk, the cultural observance practices fasting—a means to myriad spiritual rewards—with the exceptional fast-breaking feasts Suhur and Iftar. With that in mind, here are a few stand-out halal spots perfect for breaking your fast.

Café Chez Teta, a centrepiece of the Plateau’s vibrant culture, is a quaint Lebanese cafe operated by partners in business and life alike, Antoun and Mélodie. By combining a homey, warm ambiance with traditional Middle Eastern flavours, Chez Teta strives to imitate that comforting, familial sensation of grandma’s cooking. 

Via Celena Mia, Local Guide

Stand-out dishes garnished with mint and parsley accentuate the intricacies of Chez Teta’s menu. However, an undeniable highlight is the colourful arrangement of varying spreads. From the distinct acidity of Labneh to the spicy smokiness of Muhammara, Teta transports you to the Middle-East with the driving force of a pita bread. Be sure to finish your tasting with a delicate floral rose latte, an eclectic fusion of Montreal culture and traditional Arab aromas.

Via Karen Wan, Local Guide

Pâtisserie le Ryad, a hidden gem of sweet Moroccan pastries, sits tucked inside Marché Jean-Talon. If you’re a kindred spirit–cursed with a sugary Achilles heel and captivated by Moroccan cuisine–, you’ll easily be charmed by Ryad’s assorted sweets. Soaked in a dulcet simple syrup and enveloped by golden, flaky phyllo, these desserts will saturate your senses in the best way.

Via Jean Lambert, Local Guide

With pistachio-laced classics and rose-infused varieties, choosing just one pastry is nearly impossible. Still, nothing beats the simplicity of a perfectly crisp, honeyed baklava. The thin layers of phyllo give way to new flavours in each bite, revealing earthy, nutty notes balanced by a sweet gentleness—deceptively plain yet unforgettable. Ryad’s sweets will take you on a unique culinary voyage, an undeniable example of gastronomic excellence. 

Via Anjath, Local Guide

The number of exceptional halal restaurants in Montreal is boundless. These few recommendations are by no means comprehensive, but they certainly stand out as unique and delicious experiences. I encourage any curious reader to explore our culturally rich city and taste every flavour it has to offer. Here are a few special other spots that are well worth your attention.

Tesfa: Bold flavours. An Eritrean restaurant where flavours transcend borders.

Koujina Café: Study spot. A Tunisian-inspired café perfect for pre-midterm cramming.

Trippe De Bouffe:  Budget Eats. A Lebanese bakery serving delicious food that your wallet will love.

Boulangerie Mr. Jreech: Local Stop. The ideal post-class treat in Alexis-Nihon.