General Tao chicken, an iconic dish with sweet and spicy flavors, has become one of the most beloved classics of Asian cuisine in North America, and Montreal is no exception. Although this dish is often associated with China, it is not originally Chinese. The dish is named after General Zuo Zongtang, a military hero from the Qing dynasty, but it was popularized in the 1970s by Chinese chefs who had emigrated, mainly to Taiwan and the United States.
Today, General Tao chicken is a true star on the menus of Asian restaurants in Montreal. This dish captivates with the contrast between crispy fried chicken and a rich sweet and spicy sauce, creating a unique culinary experience.
Whether you are a fan of the classic version or you prefer modern interpretations, Montreal is full of restaurants that creatively and expertly revisit General Tao.
Here is our selection of the best restaurants in Montreal to enjoy General Tao chicken, each bringing its unique touch to this iconic recipe.
Whether it's for a night out with friends, a family meal, or simply to satisfy a craving for Asian flavors, you'll find the must-visit spots here.
Read also:
A Culinary Journey: The Most Popular Asian Dishes in Montreal
1077 Rue Clark, Montréal, H2Z 1K3
Located in Chinatown, Maison VIP is renowned for its famous General Tao. The fried chicken, coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, is a delight for lovers of this Chinese classic. The restaurant also offers a delicious vegetarian alternative made with tofu. With generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, Maison VIP remains a solid choice for those looking to enjoy a great Chinese meal.
Photo Credits: mtlfoodgasms
Multiple locations
Present in several cities across Quebec, Sésame restaurants stand out for their varied Asian cuisine, with General Tao taking a prominent place. The fried chicken, or tempura tofu for vegetarians, is coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, served with sautéed vegetables and rice. Sésame also offers creative variations like Tao poutine and baos. Their sauce, now iconic, is even available in major stores. The warm ambiance and attentive service complete the experience.
1448 Rue St-Mathieu, Montréal, H3H 2H9
A short walk from Guy-Concordia, Cuisine AuntDai is known for its famous General Tao, often considered one of the best in Montreal. This dish is made with high-quality chicken breast, coated in a house-made sauce that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy. The restaurant, led by Feigang Fei, offers an authentic experience with personalized service, attracting customers from all over Montreal. A must-visit for lovers of Chinese cuisine.
4201 Rue Jarry E, Montréal, H1R 1W9
In Saint-Léonard, Wing Phat is recognized for its various General Tao offerings. Whether you choose fried chicken or tofu, each version is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that delights Asian cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant, where you can bring your own wine, also offers house-made fried rice to accompany these dishes. With over 20 years of existence, Wing Phat is a go-to spot for those who appreciate a varied Asian menu.
1201 Rue Rachel E, Montréal, H2J 2J8
Le Petit Coin Dumpling, located in Plateau-Mont-Royal, is a gem for General Tao lovers. This dish, served with perfectly cooked rice, offers a delicious contrast between the crispy fried chicken and the tenderness of the rice. Far from being sophisticated, this restaurant focuses on the quality of its dishes, as evidenced by its 9,000 online reviews. It's the perfect spot for a simple and flavorful meal.
2170 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montréal, H3H 1M7
Located downtown, Biru Biru is a popular Japanese izakaya for its diverse all-you-can-eat menu. Among the many dishes offered, the General Tao stands out with its crispy fried chicken, coated in a perfectly seasoned sweet and spicy sauce. With a wide selection of sushi, skewers, and dumplings, this restaurant is ideal for those looking to explore different flavors. The pleasant setting and quick service add to the restaurant's appeal.
3035 Boulevard Le Carrefour, Laval, H7T 1C8
P.F. Chang's, a renowned international chain, offers its "Chang's Chicken" in Laval, a reimagined version of General Tao. This dish, lightly breaded and sautéed, is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that delights fans of contrasting flavors. The restaurant, which is appreciated for its modern setting, also offers several gluten-free options. Other specialties like Mapo Tofu, Mongolian Beef, fried rice, and Pad Thai complete a menu rich in Asian flavors.
1800 Boulevard de la Côte-Vertu, Montréal, H4L 2A6
In Ville Saint-Laurent, Sawadika Festin Thailandais skillfully marries Thai and Sichuan cuisines in an all-you-can-eat menu. The crispy Thai General Chicken, served with a sweet and spicy sauce, stands out among the many dishes offered. This bring-your-own-wine restaurant is perfect for sharing a generous meal in a warm atmosphere. Enjoy over 60 delicious options, available à la carte or for takeout.
63 Boulevard Brunswick, Ouest-de-l'Île (Montréal), H9B 2N4
Birdhouse Wingerie & Bar in Dollard-des-Ormeaux is known for its chicken, and its General Tao is no exception. Marinated in buttermilk and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, this dish is a must-try. With its relaxed atmosphere and generous portions, this restaurant has quickly become THE go-to spot for chicken lovers in Montreal.
766 Rue Beaubien E, Montréal, H2S 1S7
Near the Beaubien metro, the small restaurant Banh Mi Madame Ly is known for its crispy General Tao chicken, served with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. Available with rice or vermicelli, this dish has won over many customers, as evidenced by its more than 4,000 online reviews. This bring-your-own-wine restaurant also offers free delivery service, making the experience even more accessible. Don't leave without trying their Banh Mi sandwiches too!
Photo Credits: wardetassocies
121 Rue St-Charles O, Vieux Longueuil, J4H 1C7
In Vieux-Longueuil, Asiana is a must-visit spot to enjoy a delicious General Tao as well as Thai and Sichuan specialties. The fried chicken, coated in a sweet and subtly spicy sauce, is available à la carte or as part of a combo menu. The generous portions and attentive service make Asiana a favorite among Asian cuisine lovers on the South Shore. Whether for a family meal or takeout, Asiana is worth discovering.
Multiple locations
With locations in Lasalle and Pont Viau, Kyomi is much more than a simple Asian restaurant. Known for its General Tao, made with tender chicken fillet coated in a tangy-sweet sauce, it stands out for the richness of its flavors. The experience at Kyomi goes beyond the meal: the changing lighting, artwork, and zen ambiance create an immersive atmosphere. It's a place where gastronomy and art meet for a sensory delight.
1031 Rue Fleury E, H2C 1P8
The Vietnamese restaurant Pho Fleury, located in Ahuntsic-Cartierville, offers a General Tao that everyone loves. Made with breaded white chicken, free of fat, and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, this dish is served in generous portions. With over 2,000 orders on delivery platforms and warm service, Pho Fleury has become a neighborhood staple.
921 Avenue Mont-Royal E, Montréal, H2J 1X3
On Plateau-Mont-Royal, Le Mekong offers a unique version of General Tao, where fried chicken is paired with a sweet and spicy sauce, enhanced with sriracha and crispy taro. This restaurant, inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, provides a warm ambiance and a menu rich in options, from seafood to vegetarian dishes. An ideal spot for fans of creative Asian cuisine.
There are countless options when it comes to choosing a General Tao. Each establishment offers its own interpretation of the dish, with sauces that range from sweeter to spicier or even fruitier. Fortunately, there's something for everyone, which makes it all the more challenging to determine THE best place!
