Montreal and its surrounding areas are must-visit destinations for sushi lovers. From neighborhood restaurants to high-end establishments, each offers its own interpretation of sushi while adhering to the fundamentals: fresh ingredients, precise fish slicing, and a perfect balance of flavors. The rice must be perfectly seasoned and slightly sticky without being too moist, while the fish needs to be impeccably fresh.
In Montreal, several establishments prioritize importing their fish directly from Japan, ensuring exceptional quality. Beyond traditional nigiri and sashimi, many chefs have fun reinventing sushi by incorporating contemporary influences. Some restaurants, particularly those offering omakase menus, specialize in the art of surprise. With this formula, the chef decides what you'll eat based on the day's catch and their inspiration. These tailor-made experiences are often accompanied by rare and exclusive ingredients such as wagyu or exotic seafood.
Finally, for health-conscious sushi lovers, some restaurants have adapted to modern dietary trends by offering gluten-free alternatives, keto sushi, or even vegan options, all while preserving the authenticity and respect for Japanese cuisine. Whether you're vegetarian or following a keto diet, you can now enjoy sushi tailored to your lifestyle without compromising on quality.
Whether you're seeking a multi-course omakase experience, a plate of pressed sushi for a special evening, or a quick take-out meal, Montreal, Laval, and the South Shore have plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we've selected the best spots, highlighting establishments that blend Japanese tradition and innovation to offer an unparalleled sushi experience.
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Montreal
6522 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2S 3C6
In an elegant setting in the heart of Little Italy, UMÉ Table Japonaise stands out with its innovative sushi creations, such as the Petite Italie or the surf and turf, a blend of tempura shrimp and filet mignon tataki. The intimate atmosphere and friendly staff ensure a pleasant evening. With a varied menu that includes private-import wines and a fine selection of sake, UMÉ is a must-visit for sushi lovers
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399 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2V 2K3
Located in Outremont, Mikado has become a staple of Japanese cuisine in Montreal. For over three decades, this restaurant has married tradition with creativity, offering dishes like sushi, sashimi, and teriyaki. The freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the presentation make each dish a true work of art. The omakase menu, crafted by Chef Kimio Nguyen, showcases innovative creations in a setting that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. With attentive service and a warm ambiance, Mikado has been a favorite for lunch or dinner since 1987.
1124 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2V 2L4
Located on Laurier Street, Côba Sushi offers a diverse Asian menu with Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties. Among the sushi highlights, you'll find specialties such as Truffle Tuna Rolls (tuna, avocado, tempura, truffle mayo), Sake Rockefeller (torched salmon, caviar, mayo), and Foie Gras (seared foie gras, avocado, Asian pear). The sushi is prepared with fresh ingredients, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
425 Avenue Viger O, Montréal, H2Z 1W5
Nama Omakase offers a remarkable culinary experience downtown, where traditional Japanese cuisine meets French finesse. Talented chefs GaCong Ruan and Michael Ho create exceptional dishes like otoro, which melt in your mouth. The 14-course omakase menu is a culinary journey featuring exceptional ingredients like A5 wagyu beef and Ora King salmon. For a quicker option, the lunch service offers a prix fixe menu starting at $45, combining simplicity and elegance. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service allow diners to savor each dish with the highest quality seasonal products.
2600 Rue St-Patrick, Montréal, H3K 1B9
With a new sushi menu introduced in June 2024, Shushuto Bar à Ramen + Tapas in Pointe St-Charles delights with creations like the Snow Spider, featuring fried soft-shell crab. Known for its friendly atmosphere and fusion cuisine, this restaurant offers menus tailored to different times of the day, from brunch to dinner. The attentive service and generous portions complete this delightful experience near the Lachine Canal. With a menu that evolves throughout the day, Shushuto is a must-visit for sushi, ramen, and Japanese tapas lovers.
7070 Avenue Henri-Julien #234, Montréal, H2S 3S3
Located in Jean-Talon Market, Musubi offers a variety of fresh and delicious onigiri. These Japanese rice balls, filled with salmon, spicy tuna, or lobster, are made with local ingredients. Perfect for a quick bite while shopping, they are easy to take away. For those with a sweet tooth, mochis and matcha frappes perfectly round out the gourmet offering.
Photo Credits : randomcuisine
711 Côte de la Place d'Armes, Montréal, H2Y 2X6
Located in Old Montreal, under the Hôtel Place d'Armes, Kyo Bar Japonais offers an authentic Japanese experience from lunch to dinner. This restaurant combines the energy of an izakaya with the elegance of a sushi bar, offering a wide range of dishes from savory bento boxes to innovative sushi and Japanese grills. With over 25 varieties of sake, it's the ideal spot for sake enthusiasts. The convivial and refined atmosphere makes it a popular destination for colleague lunches, evenings with friends, or romantic meals.
1233 Rue de la Montagne, Montréal, H3G 1Z2
Located right in the heart of downtown, Sushi Hidden Fish offers an exceptional omakase experience, where the chef takes the lead in surprising you with his creations. The sashimi and nigiri are crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients such as otoro and wagyu. With a menu featuring privately imported sake and Japanese whiskies, along with minimalist Japan-inspired decor and attentive service, it has become a sought-after destination for those seeking an immersive experience in Japanese culture.
740 Boul Crémazie E, Montréal, H2P 1G2
At Château Maneki, it's the famous flambéed sushi creations that will leave a lasting impression, set in a pink and blue decor reminiscent of the nostalgia of the old creamery. Located in Villeray-Saint-Michel, this Japanese snack bar offers pressed sushi like the Sake Truffé and tartares, including the delicious Maguro Coréen. Enjoy a friendly moment on the terrace, savoring fresh and affordable dishes like the Maneki Classic. The team, composed of longtime friends, warmly welcomes you to this colorful spot. Don't miss their creative mocktails and finish with a sweet treat- their delicious soft-serve ice cream!
Photo credits : aleksandra_voloshyn
330 Avenue Mont-Royal E, Montréal, H2T 1P8
With its entirely vegan menu, Ohana Sushi Vegan, located in Plateau-Mont-Royal, offers sushi and poké that surprise and delight with every bite. Bold creations like the Touna Royal, which mimics tuna, or the Paradis, combining shiitakes and avocado, perfectly showcase the creativity of Chef Minh Tran. Although the space is small, it exudes a warm atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a healthy and delicious meal. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options, ensuring a 100% vegan experience without compromise.
5751 Boulevard Gouin O, Montréal, H4J 1E2
Zenbu Sushi, located in Ahuntsic-Cartierville, has been a popular destination for sushi lovers since its opening in 2012. What sets Zenbu apart is the impeccable freshness of its fish and the creativity infused into every dish. From classic makis to bold tempura rolls, each sushi is meticulously prepared to elevate Japanese flavors. The delicately melt-in-your-mouth sashimi completes the experience. With its "Bring Your Own Wine" policy, private dining room, and decor adorned with antiques, Zenbu offers the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
1227 Rue de la Montagne, Montréal, H3G 1Z2
Okeya Kyujiro offers a true immersion into the art of Omakase sushi, with a 20-course menu available exclusively by reservation. What sets this restaurant apart is its importation of rare fish directly from Japan, combined with the unmatched precision of Chef Takuya Matsuda, who elevates each ingredient to perfection. In a minimalist yet elegant atmosphere, reminiscent of the great dining tables of Tokyo, every course highlights umami, delivering a multisensory experience where authenticity is key. In addition to its presence in Montreal, Okeya Kyujiro also operates two other locations in Vancouver and Toronto. Notably, the Vancouver restaurant earned a Michelin star in 2023, a testament to the excellence and rigor that define the work of the chef and his team.
Photo credits: fugoedits
1150 Rue Sauvé O, Montréal, H4N 0C6
At Kokoro Sushi in Ahuntsic, the restaurant quickly made a name for itself thanks to its creative sushi and unique flavor combinations. Led by Mrs. Sak, it offers bold rolls such as the Geisha (without rice) and the famous Tentation, featuring tuna tartare and mango. What sets Kokoro apart is its evolving menu: each week, new dishes surprise regulars. Signature cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere make this spot a must-visit for sushi lovers. Whether for a night out with friends or an intimate meal, the welcoming ambiance and exclusive cocktails make Kokoro a popular destination.
West of Montreal
3339D Boulevard Des Sources, Ouest-de-l'Île, H9B 1Z8
Since 1997, Maiko Sushi has built a solid reputation in Dollard-des-Ormeaux. Led by Chef Maiko, this restaurant offers finely crafted sushi, such as the Perles de Maïko (a rice patty topped with smoked salmon) and the Toro Mousse, featuring toro tartare and truffled avocado mousse. Each dish is a masterpiece, blending creativity and freshness. The tasting menu is ideal for exploring the chef's full range of talents. Whether for a business meal or a romantic dinner, Maiko Sushi offers an experience that stands out.
378 Avenue Victoria, Montréal, H3Z 2N4
Park, in Westmount, is one of Montreal's most prestigious dining spots, where Chef Antonio Park turns every meal into a culinary masterpiece. Trained in the best culinary schools, this internationally renowned chef has been praised for his unique approach, blending Japanese traditions with Korean and South American influences. His omakase menu, featuring ultra-fresh fish imported directly from Japan, is a must for gourmet enthusiasts. Signature creations like Wagyu A5+ and the iconic OEuf sur oeuf sur oeuf showcase the originality and elegance of his cuisine. Every dish demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship, with attention to detail being paramount. The numerous accolades collected over the years further solidify Park's reputation as a place where authenticity meets innovation with every bite.
3237 Boulevard des Sources, Ouest-de-l'Île, H9B 1Z6
Aikawa Sushi, in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, captivates with a brilliant mix of creativity and elegance. The chefs reinvent classic dishes and surprise diners with original creations like the Roméo and Juliette maki or the famous sushi pizza. The modern and welcoming atmosphere invites relaxation, while attentive service ensures a smooth experience. Aikawa is the perfect destination for a gourmet escape, where every bite takes you on a journey through the art of sushi in the west of Montreal.
South Shore (Montérégie)
290 Boulevard St-Luc, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, J2W 2A3
Located in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Satori Sushi offers a wide selection of Japanese dishes, ranging from sushi to ramen and poké bowls. With a modern decor and a friendly ambiance, you can savor specialties like various nigiri options or don beef noodles. The restaurant also offers an omakase experience with several courses, each dish carefully crafted by the chef. You can also enjoy their lunch menu starting at $16.99, which includes soup or salad for a quick and delicious meal.
1725 Avenue des Lumières #5, Brossard, J4Y 0A5
At Niji Sushi Bar, sushi is more than just a meal-it becomes a true work of art. This restaurant offers innovative keto sushi as well as classic Japanese dishes, always prepared with ingredients of unparalleled freshness. Located in the Quartier Dix30 in Brossard, it perfectly blends tradition and innovation with classic rolls and sashimi. The flawless fusion of a trendy atmosphere and attentive service makes every meal unique. Whether it's for a quick meal or a leisurely evening where time stands still, Niji is sure to impress.
2035A Rue Victoria, Saint-Lambert, J4S 1H1
With over 14 years of experience, Shoji Sushi in Saint-Lambert is an essential destination for sashimi lovers. Prepared with imported fish, the dishes vary according to availability, ensuring consistent freshness and impeccable quality. This "Bring Your Own Wine" restaurant also offers an omakase menu of 30 to 40 pieces, ideal for a unique tasting experience with each order. Expectant mothers can enjoy the "Bébé à bord" platter, a selection of cooked sushi specially designed for them. Don't miss the chance to try their foie gras sushi, a true delicacy.
Laval (North Shore)
Multiple locations
At Mikasa Sushi Bar & Yakiniku, each dish celebrates authentic Japanese flavors. Located in Centropolis in Laval, it stands out with specialties like Le Rouge, a lobster sushi, and its izakaya menu. The relaxed atmosphere and well-equipped private rooms make it a versatile choice whether for a night out or a private event. Additionally, the gluten-free menu accommodates everyone. On sunny days, take advantage of the terrace overlooking the Centropolis fountains. Two other locations in Laval also offer takeaway sushi for those on the go.
While we have tried to provide a diverse guide with several must-visit options, there are dozens of excellent sushi spots throughout the Montreal area, each offering a unique experience to discover. Feel free to explore further and share your own discoveries!
