This sponsor post is brought to you by Tourisme Montréal. The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Serious Eats.

Eating locally raised and harvested food is an important part of any authentic travel experience. Montréal certainly has its local specialties, such as poutine, smoked meat and bagels. And any visit to Montréal would not be complete with out sampling these staples.

But there are other foods that receive less attention. Quebec cider is crafted in the apple-growing regions just south of the city, and is a very popular drink on any local patio. The cheeses of Quebec continue to win international awards, including an affordable goat cheese named 'Cinderella' that was voted best cheese in the world at the 2009 World Cheese Awards (beating out 2440 other entries). Throughout Montréal there are wide selections of Charcuteries (butchers) that offer locally produced sausages, pâtés and confit that are reminiscent of what you might find in the French countryside.

Blogger, journalist and author of the Canadian bestseller "Locavore," Sarah Elton and Montréal Ambassador Daniel Baylis chat about how to eat locally in Montréal or wherever your travels might take you...

In Montréal there are plenty of options to find locally grown/raised food options. Here are some of our picks:

Montreal Public Markets

Click on the "English" option for details about the following yearlong markets.

Marché Jean Talon - The largest outdoors market in Canada. Open-air arcades are occupied by over 300 vendors, mostly farmers from the countryside around Montréal.

Marché Atwater - Many options for fine cheeses, wines and meats. The market's Art Deco building was designed by architect Ludger Lemieux. Right beside the stunning Lachine Canal.

Marché Maisonneuve - Located in Hochalaga-Maisonneuve, the neighborhood of the Olympic Stadium. This market will give you an opportunity to practice your French, while having a true Québécois culinary experience.

Restaurants

Toqué - If you are a serious foodie with a passion for local food, this should be the number one dining experience on your itinerary. Chef Normand Laprise is an award-winning chef known for his creativity and warm, friendly character.

Aix Cuisine du Terroir - Contemporary Quebecoise cuisine made with the best and freshest produce. So artful you might hesitate to eat. But don't.

The Green Panther - "Good food for the urban jungle" is the motto at this budget-friendly, Mile End eatery. They aim to support local economies while minimizing unnecessary shipments. Killer falafel.

Les Rôtisseries St-Hubert - This Quebec institution, a high-end version of Denny's, uses grain-fed chickens raised in the province. It's comfort food with a conscience.

Aux Vivres- A vegan restaurant that works to source their ingredients from local farmers. Not into smoked meat? Well try the "smoked wheat" sandwich for a twist on traditional Montréal grub.

Food Boutiques

Le Canard Libéré - Equal parts delicatessen and café, this store features duck raised just outside of Montréal in Knowlton.

Bilboquet - Delicious homemade ice creams from local cows!

La Fromagerie Atwater - A wide variety of cheeses from Quebec, as well as local microbrewery beers.

La Crêperie du Marché - Using locally grown buckwheat flour, the crêperie offers up delicious Brittany crepes in the heart of the Jean Talon Market.