Quebec

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant in Montreal?

Complete 2025 startup cost guide for opening a restaurant in Montreal, QC. Get accurate estimates based on local rent, labor, permits, and market conditions.

High Cost Market
Cost index: 120% of national average

$8,500

Avg Monthly Rent (2000 sq ft)

$15.75

Minimum Wage/Hour

$6,000

Full Liquor License

3.8

Restaurants per 1,000 People

Startup Costs by Restaurant Type in Montreal

Food Truck

Mobile food service with lower overhead

Range: $1,070,643 - $3,925,133
~$2,497,888avg

Fast Casual

Counter service with fresh, quality food

Range: $1,044,901 - $6,689,064
~$3,866,983avg

Casual Dining

Full-service restaurant with moderate prices

Range: $2,131,657 - $13,303,728
~$7,717,693avg

Fine Dining

Upscale restaurant with premium experience

Range: $2,798,620 - $16,588,080
~$9,693,350avg

Cafe / Coffee Shop

Coffee-focused with light food options

Range: $692,164 - $4,821,216
~$2,756,690avg

Bar / Nightclub

Alcohol-focused venue with entertainment

Range: $1,388,310 - $10,841,040
~$6,114,675avg

Quick Service (QSR)

Fast food with drive-thru or counter service

Range: $1,001,638 - $5,727,552
~$3,364,595avg

Ghost Kitchen / Virtual

Delivery-only kitchen with no dine-in

Range: $511,269 - $4,139,376
~$2,325,323avg

Sample Cost Breakdown: Casual Dining in Montreal

Based on a 3,000 sq ft restaurant with full liquor service

Real Estate (6 mo rent + deposit)$1,350,000
Build-out & Construction$461,000
Equipment & Furnishings$348,000
Initial Inventory$37,500
Liquor License$6,000
Pre-opening Expenses$624,800
Working Capital (4 months)$965,760
Contingency (15%)$568,959
Total Estimated Cost$4,362,019

Montreal Restaurant Market Insights

Local Market Tips

  • Strong French culinary tradition
  • Bilingual staff often required
  • Vibrant nightlife scene
  • Lower costs than Toronto/Vancouver

Popular Cuisines in Montreal

French
Italian
Middle Eastern
Vietnamese
Portuguese

Population

1,762,949

Median Income

$52,000

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Key Cost Factors in Montreal

Commercial Rent$30-$90/sq ft
Build-out Cost$85-$250/sq ft
Permit Costs$4,000-$18,000
Beer/Wine License$1,500
Full Liquor License$6,000
Avg Utilities (1000 sq ft)$1,500/mo

Opening a Restaurant in Montreal: What You Need to Know

Montreal, Quebec is a above average costs compared to national average for restaurant startups. With a population of 1,762,949 and a median household income of $52,000, the market offers 3.8 restaurants per 1,000 residents.

Cost of Living Impact

Restaurant startup costs in Montreal are approximately 20%above the national average. The minimum wage of $15.75/hour significantly impacts labor costs, which typically represent 25-35% of operating expenses.

Key Considerations for Montreal

  • Strong French culinary tradition
  • Bilingual staff often required
  • Vibrant nightlife scene
  • Lower costs than Toronto/Vancouver

Popular Restaurant Concepts

The most successful cuisine types in Montreal include French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Vietnamese, Portuguese. Consider market saturation and competition when choosing your concept.

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