In Montreal, Asian soups go far beyond the essential phở, Tom Yum, wonton, and ramen. In many of the city's restaurants, lesser-known soups are carefully crafted, using fresh ingredients and ancestral techniques that celebrate the richness of Asian traditions.
From Thai curry soups to spicy Korean broths, the diversity of Asian soups in Montreal is impressive. Each bowl is filled with authentic flavors and offers a unique experience. Whether bold or more delicate, these soups bring both comfort and a burst of flavor.
For those who enjoy strong flavors or prefer something more subtle, Montreal is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Local chefs often reinterpret traditional recipes, adding a modern twist that reinvents these classic dishes.
This article offers a selection of the best places to enjoy original or lesser-known soups. Let yourself be surprised by these bowls that will take you on a journey through the flavors of Asia, without leaving Montreal.
Read also:
Where to Find the Best Curries in Montreal
Thai Soups to Discover
Multiple locations
Close to the universities in downtown Montreal, Mae Sri and Garden Room offer an authentic experience of Thai noodles. The menus highlight family recipes passed down by Chef and co-owner Pamika, like the famous Kuai Tiao Tom Yum soup, rich in flavor with shrimp and squid. Soup lovers will also discover lesser-known dishes, such as the Boat Noodle Ayutthaya, a must-try with its meatballs and spicy broth.
What sets the two locations apart? Mae Sri features a simple and rustic decor, evoking small traditional Thai restaurants where comforting soup is enjoyed without fuss, making it a perfect spot for local students. In contrast, Garden Room stands out with its unique atmosphere, designed like a lush urban garden, and excellent cocktails, making it a trendy spot for professionals looking to relax.
88 Avenue Bernard O, Montréal, H2T 2J8
For several years, Restaurant Thailande, located on Bernard Street, has attracted fans of authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant offers a distinctive setting with low tables and colorful cushions, creating a unique atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety of soups, such as Tum Yum Kha, a subtle blend of coconut milk and lemongrass, or Kaeng Jeud Woun Sen, a light vermicelli soup. Whether you opt for an à la carte meal or a discovery menu, each visit is a real journey.
Multiple locations
With three locations in Montreal, Brossard, and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Siam stands out with its authentic Thai cuisine and spectacular setting. Awarded the prestigious Thai Select certification, the restaurant highlights flavorful dishes like Khao Soi, a blend of noodles and coconut milk, or Tom Kah, delicately fragrant. The decor, with its impressive statues and colorful terraces in the summer, makes it a sought-after venue. The attentive service and cocktail menu complete this extraordinary experience, offering a true journey to Thailand.
Vietnamese Soups To Discover
6542 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2S 3C6
T'Ami Restaurant, located in Little Italy and opened in 2022, stands out for its rich and varied Vietnamese cuisine. Founded by Thuy Tam Le, a former journalist with a passion for cooking, this restaurant offers authentic dishes from all regions of Vietnam. Soup lovers will appreciate the Combo Canh Chua Cá, a sweet and sour soup with caramelized fish, as well as classics like Cháo Lòng, a rice soup with blood sausage. The eclectic menu showcases specialties from the north, central, and southern parts of the country. The authentic and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to discover new flavors. With its regional influences, T'Ami is an essential destination in Montreal for those seeking rare and authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
2605 Rue Jean-Talon E, Montréal, H2A 1V1
Located in Villeray, Ho Guom is a true treasure of Vietnamese cuisine. This restaurant offers traditional dishes, including the famous Bún Ốc Hồ Gươm, a snail and vermicelli soup, and Bún Bò Huế, a spicy beef soup. Ho Guom's authentic setting creates a warm atmosphere where you can savor rich and flavorful cuisine, perfect for exploring Vietnamese specialties rarely found in Montreal. Plus, you can bring your own bottle to complete your meal!
432 Rue Rachel E, Montréal, H2J 2G7
In the heart of Plateau-Mont-Royal, Bun Mam Ninh Kieu impresses with its typically Vietnamese dishes. Highlights include Bun Oc, a snail, tofu, and Vietnamese sausage soup, and Bun Mam Do Bien, a seafood soup. This restaurant stands out for the freshness of its ingredients and the authenticity of its recipes. A must-visit for those looking to explore uncommon flavors in Montreal.
Photo credits: spoonfulof.chic
939 Boulevard Décarie, Montréal, H4L 3M3
Vinh Hing, a hidden gem in Ville Saint-Laurent, offers dishes with Vietnamese and Cambodian influences. The Phnom Penh Soup, a house specialty, combines noodles with a flavorful pork bone broth. The Beef Stew Soup is another popular option, featuring braised beef and a tomato-based soup. This discreet restaurant offers simple yet delicious cuisine, perfect for those who enjoy traditional dishes.
Photo credits: randomcuisine
Korean Soups To Discover
470 Avenue Lafleur, Montréal, H8R 3H9
In LaSalle, La Maison de Séoul invites you to discover Korean flavors through its traditional soups. The Yukgaejang, a spicy beef broth with vermicelli noodles, is one of the most popular dishes. For spice lovers, the Kimchi Soup, made with pork and tofu, is an excellent choice. For a bolder option, the Soondaeguk, made with blood sausage, tripe, and pork ear, is a true delight. This modest yet warm restaurant offers authentic Korean cuisine at affordable prices, with generous portions and intense flavors.
6139 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, H4A 1Y4
Located in NDG, Mukja is known for its generous and authentic Korean soups. Must-tries from the menu include the Kimchi Jjigae, a spicy kimchi stew with pork and tofu, and Galbitang, a short rib soup beloved by regulars. Traditional food enthusiasts will gravitate towards the Korean Blood Sausage Soup, made with black pudding and pork, or the Octopus Soup for a more exotic touch. With large portions and very reasonable prices, Mukja attracts a loyal clientele. The warm service and numerous side dishes, such as kimchi and banchan, add to the authenticity of the experience, making this restaurant a must-visit for discovering Korean cuisine.
1021B Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2Z 1J4
In Montreal's Chinatown, Chez Bong has stood out for more than 20 years for its authenticity and quality Korean dishes. Run by Ms. Bong, an experienced chef from Gwangju, she is also known for having opened the very first Korean restaurant in Montreal in 1988. Today, Chez Bong offers dishes that transport diners directly to South Korea. The Soon Dobu Jjigae, a spicy tofu and seafood soup, is a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors. Don't miss the Mandoo Kook, a comforting soup with wontons and rice cakes, perfect for warming up on cold days. This family-run restaurant is known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and authentic flavors. Chez Bong is more than just a meal, it's an immersion in Korean culture.
1862 Boulevard de Maisonneuve O, Montréal, H3H 1J8
In downtown Montreal, near Guy-Concordia, Jako restaurant offers a fusion menu combining Japanese and Korean cuisine. Among the dishes to try are the Beef Udon, with marinated sirloin and soft-boiled egg, and the Soondubbu, a spicy tofu broth that will delight fans of spicy flavors. With its generous portions and perfectly balanced dishes, Jako is the place to go for a successful fusion of Asian flavors. Highly prized by connoisseur students, this restaurant stands out for its affordable prices and the consistent quality of its dishes, making it a favorite spot in Montreal.
Crédits photo: foodieessie
Japanese Soup To Discover
7112 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2S 3E2
In the heart of Little Italy, Restaurant Makoto successfully blends Korean and Japanese traditions. Must-try soups include the Soondubu-jjigae, a spicy tofu, pork, and mushroom broth, along with the Fried Shrimp Udon, a Japanese classic. The Seafood Udon, served in a soy broth, is also not to be missed. This small restaurant offers generous portions at very competitive prices in a simple and welcoming setting. With fresh ingredients and attentive service, Makoto attracts a loyal clientele seeking a relaxed and flavorful meal at an affordable price.
Photo credits: irishulot
77 Rue Rachel O, Montréal, H2W 1G2
In Plateau-Mont-Royal, near Mont-Royal, Noren charms guests with its Japanese menu and intimate ambiance. Fans of traditional cuisine will appreciate the Oden, a Japanese hot pot made with daikon, shirataki noodles, and fish cake. With only ten seats, this restaurant stands out for the freshness of its ingredients and attentive service. Discreet but popular among connoisseurs, Noren is a must-visit for lovers of Japanese cuisine. The cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a place to discover.
Chinese Soups To Discover
1861 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montréal, H3H 1M2
Specializing in dim sum and congee, Yin Ji Chang Fen in downtown Montreal offers a true immersion into traditional Chinese cuisine. With branches in Toronto that are always packed and hailing from Hong Kong, this spot is a must in its category. The congee, a savory rice porridge, comes in several versions: pork, seafood, pork liver, or preserved egg, satisfying all tastes. The generous portions and affordable prices make it an ideal option for those looking for a comforting meal. Their homemade chicken soup is also a standout, carefully prepared to deliver authentic flavors.
Photo credits: mikey.eatsto
1006 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2Z 9Y9
Nouilles de Lan Zhou, in Chinatown, is known for its hand-pulled noodles, which can be seen as being made through the window. Their famous Lan Zhou Beef Soup is served in a rich broth, topped with Chinese radish, thin slices of beef, and cilantro. You can choose the width of your noodles and adjust the spice level to your liking. The experience is simple, authentic, and affordable, ideal for those seeking a comforting meal with traditional flavors. A must-visit for lovers of Chinese cuisine.
Photo credits: hangryange
1809 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montréal, H3H 1M2
Known for its hearty dishes and fast service, Restaurant PM, in business since 2004, is a go-to spot for lovers of Chinese and Thai cuisine. Whether you opt for the beef noodle soup or the egg drop soup with minced beef, each dish offers a pleasant surprise for the taste buds. Located downtown, this restaurant is ideal for enjoying a flavorful meal at a low price in a simple and welcoming setting. A perfect destination to savor traditional soups and dishes at reasonable prices.
4745 Boulevard Grande-Allée, Brossard, J4Z 3G1
If you're looking for good Chinese soup in Brossard, Papa Jackie is an address to remember. With soups like chicken and corn soup or mushroom and egg soup, this restaurant, renovated in 2017, combines authentic flavors with generous portions. The modern atmosphere, along with the option to bring your own wine, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Photo credits : elisebgravel
Other Asian Countries with Soups to Discover
1440 Rue De l'Église, Montréal, H4L 2H3
Maison Mignon is a hidden gem in Ville Saint-Laurent, known for its Taiwanese beef noodle soup. This generous dish, made with slices of tender beef shank and a deeply flavorful broth, is a must-try. The soups, served with fresh vegetables and homemade noodles, offer an authentic experience. Simple and discreet, this spot attracts lovers of Taiwanese cuisine seeking comforting and flavorful dishes.
Photo credits: mtlcharles
2601 Rue Centre, Montréal, H3K 1K2
Sep Lai is a charming Laotian restaurant in Pointe-Saint-Charles, perfect for discovering the authentic cuisine of owner Natassia Marier and chef Lina Thongvan. Whether you opt for the à la carte menu or the discovery menu, dishes to share, rich in flavor, are the order of the day. The Khao Poon soup, a must, is prepared with red curry, coconut milk, somen noodles and fresh vegetables. In summer, the terrace, decorated with lights and surrounded by vegetation, offers a unique ambience. Don't forget to make a reservation and let yourself be guided by the team, always ready to advise you.
Multiple locations
Satay Brothers, in Saint-Henri, offers a true gateway to Southeast Asian street food. Brothers Alex and Mat Winnicki, who run both the restaurant and the kiosk at Atwater Market, serve comforting dishes like Laksa soup, a specialty with intense flavors made with coconut milk, noodles, and shrimp. Often packed, Satay Brothers is known for its warm atmosphere and generous portions. Bring your own wine and let yourself be charmed by the relaxed vibe that has made this Montreal institution famous. Be sure to reserve to enjoy their sunny and festive terrace.
Ready to continue your journey through Montreal's vibrant Asian food scene? Click here to uncover even more must-visit Asian restaurants that will delight your taste buds.
