This Outremont hotspot just won a very special award.
For over a decade, the Mexico Gastronomic Guide 2025 by Culinaria Mexicana has recognized the best of Mexican gastronomy.
Celebrating its 11th anniversary, the winners are selected thanks to a panel of 80 experts, including specialized journalists, industry entrepreneurs, and sommeliers, who are constantly exploring and tasting restaurants across the country.
This jury is responsible for selecting the 250 best restaurants in Mexico based on factors such as quality and creativity in cuisine, consistency, service, and the memorable experiences they offer.
This initiative, led by Culinaria Mexicana under the direction of Claudio Poblete, also issues special awards—including one Montreal eatery (the only Canadian spot on the list!) named the best Mexican restaurant outside of Mexico in 2025.
Which Montreal restaurant was named the best Mexican restaurant outside of Mexico?
The prestigious award was issued to Alma in Montreal, Canada, one of the city's 50 best restaurants.
What makes Alma so special?
Opened by Lindsay Brennan and Juan Lopez Luna in 2018, Alma brings together Catalan natural wines and modern Mexican cuisine that highlights Quebec products.
Heirloom corn is central to Alma’s cuisine, and the restaurant sources nixtamalized corn primarily from Tlaxcala and Oaxaca.
The team uses the various heirloom corn varietals to grind fresh masa every morning, handcrafting tortillas and traditional Mexican dishes.
One of Canada’s first restaurants to highlight nixtamalization, Alma showcases Mexico’s rich culinary heritage—the ancient process enhances flavour, texture, and nutritional value, improving protein quality and calcium content while softening the kernel for better digestion.
Much like their approach to food, Alma also values terroir when it comes to grapes. Alma’s wine list showcases the best natural wines from Catalonia and Spain, highlighting low-production, terroir-driven wines crafted by passionate winemakers who preserve family vineyards and traditions.
Time Out Tip: Opt for the "menu carte blanche" which offers curated pairings, allowing guests to explore these exceptional wines by the glass or bottle.
For more information about Alma, click here.
RECOMMENDED:
Michelin star-calibre restaurants in Montreal
Complete guide to the best downtown Montreal restaurants