There are several debates about the exact origin of the dish commonly called general tao or general tso. Some assume that it originated in a restaurant in Taiwan, while others believe that it was invented in New York.
Contrary to popular belief, this is not a dish found in authentic Chinese cuisine. It is a dish mainly served in North America in Asian restaurants.
Today, it is a very popular dish in Montreal and many places claim to have the ultimate recipe.
In this article, we have gathered the best ones in the city of Montreal.
In the heart of Chinatown, La Maison VIP is definitely a favorite in terms of Chinese cuisine in Montreal. Reviews all over the web are unanimous in saying that it serves the best general tao in town. They have a chicken version and a vegetarian version using tofu. The portion is generous, the breading is crispy and the sauce is just the right balance between spicy and sweet. At the same time, try their second most popular dish: chow mein!
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Mekong is a must in the Plateau Mont-Royal for the warmth of its service, the aesthetics of its dishes, the creativity of its cocktails, and the quality of its food. Most of the items on the menu can be changed to a vegetarian version, so don't hesitate to ask! Specialties include general tao chicken with sweet and sour sauce, sriracha, crispy taro, sesame seeds, and rice. At the same time, try the pad thai which is just as good!
The Deville Dinerbar is on Stanley Street in downtown Montreal and offers a wonderful mix between the old American diner and a contemporary cocktail bar. The dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious. It's the general tao salad that caught our attention with its recipe of perfectly crispy chicken, grilled pineapple, fried wonton noodles, and more. All that's left is to decide which cocktail will accompany your meal!
This Vietnamese bistro is ideally located in the Plateau Mont-Royal and offers a nice menu reminiscent of street food in a relaxed atmosphere. They serve a personalized version of general tao (Ga tao) with fried chicken sautéed in a honey and ginger sauce. If you don't fancy the rice version, go for the brand new poutine tao! Team recommendation: don't leave without trying the imperial rolls, they are crispy and served in a nice basket.
Sawadika offers one of the largest all-you-can-eat menus in the city of Montreal. Located in Saint-Laurent, it offers the best Thai and Szechuan flavors. When you visit, order as many plates of general Thai as you want, because it is delicious! Plus, you can even bring your favorite beer or bottle of wine to accompany the meal! If you feel like staying home, order from their website and indulge in the general Thai.
Sesame's six different locations offer an Asian-inspired menu with reinvented classics. They use fresh and quality ingredients. They have many ways to enjoy the famous general tao: bao burger, pokés, plates, poutines (veg or not), or the vegetarian version with tofu. If you feel like it, accompany your meal with a cocktail!
If you are interested in discovering authentic Chinese cuisine in addition to general tao, Cuisine Aunt Dai is a must for you. Near Guy-Concordia and Anjou, the owner Feigang Fei will transport you into his culinary heritage through each of the dishes served. People come from all over the city to eat his general tao because it is so sensational. In addition to being affordable, the welcome is warm and personalized. The owner has made a (long) video explaining his tao general recipe if you want to see it on YouTube.
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It is now possible to find L'Gros Luxe locations throughout Quebec. What is particularly interesting about this company is that it adapts to each neighborhood where it sets up shop, even modifying certain items on the menu and in the decor. In addition to the beautiful cocktails served in masson jars, we suggest you try the tasty tao poutine served with veggie shiitake fried chicken, tao sauce, red peppers, green onions, sesame seeds, and coriander. We guarantee you will ask for more and more!
Ken Ching Restaurant in Laval is a restaurant with a family atmosphere and traditional recipes. The quality of the food is omnipresent and the portions are generous. The general tao plate and its tofu version are among the most popular on the menu. According to reviews, they are crispy, just spicy enough, and well seasoned. Go visit them with your family to share several dishes, you won't be disappointed!
There are a variety of options when it comes to choosing a general tao. Each establishment offers its interpretation of the best recipe, ranging from sweeter to spicy to fruity. Fortunately, there is something for everyone, which makes it more complex when it comes to determining THE place to go!
