Is the Ethnic restaurant food in Montreal more authentic,...than say small-town USA?

Answer 1

generally, I would say yes. And btw, Montreal is a very safe city. Just keep your wits about you and dont do anything stupid, and you'll be fine.

However, tourist friendly places to get 'ethnic' cuisine would along Blvd. St. Laurent(which is long and has a million places to eat. Go for the busiest places you see :) ), Rue de la Gauchetier, St. Denis, Prince Arthur(the pedestrian end, near the park). St. Catherine also has some decent places.

Answer 2

I would ask the concierge at the hotel you're staying at; there are probably many "fancy" places, but what you're looking for is the real stuff that tastes authentic and is a memorable eating experience; unfortunately, you'll probably have to go to a part of town that may not be safe for tourists; have him arrange a cab pickup and drop off for you; I've always loved ethnic food-all types- but some of the best Mexican was in this little, no frills "joint" called El Fiestejo; I asked for the clam soup thinking I'd get this small cup and for something like 5.00 US, it was about a 1/2 gallon of soup in this huge bowl with the richest seafood broth, cilantro, lemon, different spices, and clams...tons of them...cherry stones, fat and juicy! Now I've found another called Coyote Flaco and their tacos, enchiladas suisas, Posole...to dye for; both of these restaurants are in Port Chester, NY and "Coyote" is Zagat rated, even though to look at it you'd probably drive by....