Whether it's for an office lunch, a post-gym meal, or a last-minute dinner, poke bowls have become a staple in the eating habits of Montrealers. Originating in Hawaii, where the word poke means "to slice" or "cut into cubes," this iconic dish was originally prepared by fishermen using cubes of raw fish simply seasoned with salt and seaweed. Over time, Hawaii's Japanese community transformed the recipe by adding ingredients such as rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Later, California helped popularize the modern poke bowl, topped with vegetables, fruit, and a wide variety of proteins.
Today, Montreal restaurants put their own creative spin on the dish with bowls featuring salmon, tofu, grilled chicken, or tempura shrimp, paired with avocado, mango, cucumber, edamame, and plenty of other fresh ingredients.
Here are 14 places to enjoy an excellent poke bowl in Montreal.
Maui Poké
1278 Rue Jean-Talon E, Montreal, H2R 1W3
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With more than a dozen poke bowls on the menu, this restaurant, inspired by the laid-back vibe of Maui, has something for every taste. Choose from chicken, smoked eel, salmon, shrimp, or tuna, among other options. Pair your meal with one of their specialty coffees, including a Vietnamese iced coffee made with strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk.
Venice Mtl
440 Rue Saint-Francois-Xavier, Montreal, H2Y 2T3
Enjoy your poke bowl in a California-inspired setting complete with palm trees, vibrant colors, and a relaxed vacation atmosphere.
The menu features seven different poke bowls. One of the most unique combines tuna with melon, mango, and radish for a refreshing twist. If not everyone in your group is craving poke, don't worry-the menu also includes burgers, salads, and tacos.
Poke Island
75 Rue St-Viateur O, Montreal, H2T 2K9
Located in Mile End, this spot is perfect for satisfying a poke bowl craving, even late at night. Open until 3 a.m., the restaurant offers several combinations featuring bluefin tuna, salmon, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crab. To round out the meal, there's also a selection of bubble teas in flavors like taro, ube, mango, and more.
'Olu'Olu Poke
Multiple locations
To explore Hawaiian flavors, head to one of the locations of this chain specializing in poke bowls. On the menu, you'll find bowls featuring salmon, tuna, shrimp, and even eel.
Among the must-try options, the Amélika bowl features lemongrass-infused marinated salmon, served with green papaya and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Those who can't decide between salmon, tuna, and crab will love the Spicy Rainbow Bowl, which combines all three proteins in a single dish, topped with mango, avocado, and a generous selection of fresh ingredients.
Yen Cuisine Japonaise
2157 Rue Mackay, Montreal, H3G 2J2
If you're a sake lover, this restaurant deserves a spot on your must-visit list. In addition to an impressive sake selection, it offers several Japanese whiskies. The menu features poke bowls with scallops, salmon, or tuna, alongside Japanese classics such as nigiri, sashimi, and gyoza.
Sésame
Multiple locations
This Japanese bistro is an excellent choice for a romantic dinner for two in a chic yet relaxed setting. For appetizers, share a few small plates, such as the papaya salad, fried calamari, or mini salmon poké. For the main course, choose from five varieties of Hawaiian tartares made with salmon, tofu, chicken, or tuna. Enjoy it all in a chic setting, paired with a signature cocktail like the Negroni Yuzu Sour or the Sesame Sangria.
Bol & Bulle
501 Boulevard René-Lévesque O, Montreal, H2Z 1A8
This restaurant offers a wide variety of poke bowls to suit every palate. One standout is the Pure Ocean Energy Bowl, featuring lobster, cooked shrimp, raw tuna, and raw salmon with fresh vegetables. The menu also includes onigiri and a selection of bubble teas.
Poke Cabana
5727 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Montreal, H3S 1Y7
This restaurant celebrates the poke bowl in its most traditional Hawaiian form. The Limu Poké features fresh marinated fish served over seasoned rice with nori, delivering a simple yet authentic experience.
If you prefer a more modern take, there are also bowls topped with tempura shrimp or chicken.
Kamé - Snack Bar Hawaien
30 Rue Ste-Catherine O, Montreal, H2X 0C8
Head to this Hawaiian snack bar inside Central, where the menu draws inspiration from the surf culture of Oahu's North Shore. Every poke bowl is fully customizable-choose your base, protein, and toppings. A small selection of wines and cocktails is also available.
Le Poké Station
Multiple locations
Whether you prefer salmon, marinated tuna, or chicken, Poke Station offers something for everyone. One highlight is the Chicken Katsu Poke Bowl, featuring crispy Japanese-style panko-breaded chicken.
Honolulu Poké
2664 Rue Beaubien E, Montreal, H1Y 1G7
Head to this gourmet restaurant, a favorite among poke bowl lovers. The menu features the classic salmon and tuna options, as well as a few creations with Japanese influences. Those looking to venture off the beaten path might want to try the chicken katsu version or the scallop and yuzu option.
Pokai
5147A Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Montreal, H3T 1X9
After visiting Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, Pokai is a great place to stop by for some poké. Located in Côte-des-Neiges, the restaurant also serves bánh mì and spring rolls. As for the bowls, options include salmon, tuna, panko-crusted shrimp, tempura shrimp, and tofu.
Le Blossom
Multiple locations
People come here to savor the great classics of Japanese cuisine, paired with a glass of sake. On the menu: maki, nigiri, sashimi, and, of course, a few Japanese-inspired poke bowl options. Among the must-try dishes are the karaage chicken poke bowl and the lobster and yuzu version.
Kyo Bar Japonais
711 Côte de la Place d'Armes, Montreal, H2Y 2X6
Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Kyo Bar Japonais is the perfect stop after exploring the historic district or for after-work drinks. The menu features Japanese favorites like udon noodles, gyoza, and sushi, alongside an impressive selection of sake. Poke bowl lovers can choose from three Hawaiian-inspired options made with salmon, tuna, or tofu, making it an excellent choice for both traditional Japanese cuisine and fresh, satisfying bowl.
