Finding onigiri in Montreal can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt.That said, these delicious Japanese rice balls are gradually gaining popularity in the city.
Perfect for a quick snack, a light lunch, or a picnic, onigiri appeal with their simplicity and variety. Filled with salmon, vegetables, eggs, or even meat, they cater to every taste.
Although specialty shops are still relatively rare, several Japanese restaurants, izakayas, and cafés in Montreal now offer their own take on this specialty.
Onigiri Shop
Multiple locations
Onigiri Shop has gradually won over the hearts of Montrealers, becoming a must-visit spot for onigiri lovers. With over 18 locations across the city, it's hard not to stumble upon one when you're feeling peckish. The menu offers a wide selection without being overwhelming: spicy salmon, eel, soy-marinated egg yolk, ikura (salmon roe)… Classic flavors executed perfectly, without any frills.
Musubi Izakaya
30 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montreal, H2X 0C8
Head to this well-known spot for onigiri in Montreal, located at Central, right in the heart of downtown. They offer eight varieties of this Japanese specialty, including onigiri filled with karaage chicken, grilled eel, avocado with wasabi, or marinated egg. The menu also includes mochi, notably sesame and strawberry flavors.
Noren
77 Rue Rachel O, Montreal, H2W 1G2
This small spot nestled in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood serves Japanese-inspired cuisine. On the menu: salmon okayu chazuke, a bowl of rice topped with raw salmon and sides, served with dashi broth, as well as duck soba noodles. The menu also includes onigiri as a side dish.
CAFÉ Le NIGIRIZ
32 Rue St-Cuthbert, Montreal, H2W 1L3
This Japanese-inspired coffee shop features a minimalist aesthetic and a cozy atmosphere. The menu focuses primarily on onigiri, with various fillings such as karaage chicken, yuzu-scented cod roe, or marinated Japanese plum.
For the less adventurous, more classic flavors are also available, such as salmon, spicy tuna, or marinated egg onigiri. On the beverage side, the menu includes siphon coffee as well as a kinako latte, made with roasted soybeans.
Le Falco
5605 Avenue de Gaspé, Montreal, H2T 2A4
This small Japanese-inspired café, located in Mile End, is a must-visit for a lunch break that will transport you in just a few bites. The spot offers a great selection of onigiri, as well as donburi, rice bowls topped with protein and vegetables, perfect for a simple lunch.
Ramen Nakamichi
5329 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montreal, H2T 1S5
This spot on Saint-Laurent Boulevard specializes mainly in ramen. The menu features tori paitan ramen, made with a rich and creamy chicken broth, as well as the pork version, hakata tonkotsu. For sides, there are several options, such as onigiri, edamame, and karaage chicken.
Café Noya
2053 Rue Peel, Montreal, H3A 1T6
This café, located a two-minute walk from Peel Station, offers several varieties of onigiri, including beef, spicy tuna, and smoked salmon. These options can be enjoyed as a snack, paired with a signature drink, such as mango matcha, lavender chai, or a tiramisu matcha latte. The menu also includes udon noodles, available with beef, Japanese curry, or in a miso cream version.
Kaizen Manga Café
1433c Rue Bishop, Montreal, H3G 2E4
This coffee shop in downtown Montreal is a top destination for manga lovers, but not only that. In fact, Café Kaizen also appeals to matcha lovers looking for a spot to read or study. You can't pass by without trying their strawberry matcha latte, one of their signature drinks. And the cherry on top: the place also offers onigiri to make the whole experience even more comforting.
Komma Rosta
5300 Rue Wellington, Montreal, H4H 1N2
Head to this hidden gem in Verdun to enjoy an onigiri paired with a refreshing drink. On the menu, you'll find these famous rice balls filled with tuna mayo, shiitake mushrooms, or grilled salmon. As for drinks, the selection is quite extensive, featuring several varieties of lemonade, including yuzu, as well as iced tea and matcha.
DonDonYa
5349 Avenue Gatineau, Montreal, H3T 1X1
This popular spot in Côte-des-Neiges offers a variety of Japanese-inspired dishes. The menu features classics like torikatsu, fried chicken served with a sweet-and-sour sauce, chicken curry, and savory pancakes filled with cabbage and pork. And to round out the meal, onigiri are also on the menu.
