Soup Zen Hot Pot is described as a playful, pay-by-weight, build-your-own hot pot experience with a wide range of ingredients, broths, and a sauce bar, and most reviews highlight fresh ingredients, generous portions, and complimentary ice cream at the end. Halal and gluten-free options are noted, making it accessible to many diets. The concept and atmosphere are often praised as fun and welcoming, yet the space is frequently described as crowded, noisy, and a little cramped. Wait times and service quality vary, with reports of long lines, confusion at seating, and inconsistent attention from staff. Pricing is considered reasonable for the quantity and customization, but costs can climb quickly if bowls are packed with items. Many reviewers commend friendly staff, helpful guidance through the ordering process, and the overall quality of broth and ingredients, though some experiences mention miscommunication or errors in broth or order. Overall, it is seen as a worthwhile, comforting option for cold weather with the novelty of DIY choice, best approached with a little planning and patience.View restaurant profile
KhanJee Restaurant earns praise for bold, authentic Pakistani and Desi flavors, with dishes like Charsi Karahi, Peshawari Karahi, beef Bihari kebabs, and tender tandoori BBQ earning frequent acclaim, along with huge, soft naans and fragrant biryani. The atmosphere is warm, colorful, and family friendly, with truck art decor that makes the dining experience feel welcoming and lively. Service is repeatedly highlighted as attentive and friendly, with staff offering thoughtful recommendations and helping with large groups, though a few reviews note slower service during busy periods. Many reviewers commend value for money, generous portions, and consistent quality, and some mention special experiences like Ramadan Iftar buffets and catering events as standout. The breads, starters, chai, and desserts are often cited as must-tries, and items like butter chicken and nihari are singled out for exceptional flavor. While most feedback is glowing, isolated critiques cite issues such as dryness or mis-cooking in rare cases and occasional delays, but these do not outweigh the overall positive impression. Travelers from other cities, including Ottawa and Toronto, express enthusiasm for the authenticity and hospitality, and free parking is noted as a plus. Overall, KhanJee Restaurant emerges as a go-to spot for authentic South Asian cuisine in Montreal, delivering flavorful food, vibrant ambiance, and dependable service that keeps guests returning.View restaurant profile
Bélair is described across reviews as a warm, convivial spot offering authentic Algerian cuisine with generous portions and homemade flavors that many consider among the best in Montreal. The service is frequently praised for friendliness, attentiveness, and efficiency, and the atmosphere is noted as welcoming and family-like, with a simple yet charming décor. Dishes range from fresh, flavorful grills to comforting desserts like a superb flan, with appreciation for real taste, good value for the portion sizes, and the impression of true, homemade cooking. A few guests report issues such as miscommunication on orders, incorrect dishes, or inconsistent professionalism, and some feel that certain items at price point do not match expectations. The overall consensus is that Bélair stands out for authenticity, hospitality, and robust flavor, though parking can be tricky and occasional service gaps remind that improvements are possible.View restaurant profile
Reviews describe an authentic Lebanese dining experience at Chez mon grand père with fresh flavorful dishes like foul, fatteh and manakeesh, generous portions, and a warm cozy atmosphere that feels welcoming. Many note strong value for money and in house bread along with ingredients brought from Lebanon that contribute to the authentic taste, while a few mention higher prices and one midday visit with cleanliness and service issues that marred the experience, yet overall the sentiment is positive with frequent recommendations and a desire to return.View restaurant profile
Kalabok Restaurant is described as a warm, homey spot offering authentic, homemade style dishes from Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with generous portions and prices that feel affordable for the quality. The two owners are praised for attentive, familial hospitality that makes diners feel welcome whether dining in or taking out. Diners highlight dishes like borscht, pelmeni, manty, samsa, plov, and belyash, all made from scratch with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Desserts such as Medovik and honey cake are noted for their comforting sweetness. Many reviews convey a nostalgic, comforting atmosphere, as if visiting grandma's kitchen, in a small, clean space with a strong sense of community. Overall, Kalabok Restaurant is described as a hidden gem offering authentic, high-quality comfort food, halal options, and great value that keeps guests coming back.View restaurant profile
Reviews describe Saray Restaurant as a standout Turkish spot in Montreal, with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a warm, inviting ambiance. The menu from breakfast through brunch to dinner is praised for fresh ingredients, well executed grilled meats, mezze, and desserts like kunefe, with the beyti and Adana kebab singled out as favorites by many. The service is often described as attentive and friendly, and the decor and atmosphere are repeatedly complimented as elegant and lively, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations. Brunch and Turkish breakfast are highlighted as especially impressive, while some guests note that the experience can feel busy and noisy at peak times, with occasional delays or variability in the pace and execution. Prices are described by some as a bit high, though many diners feel the quality and portions justify the cost. Overall, Saray Restaurant is seen as a top option for authentic Turkish cuisine, well suited for special occasions and hearty dining with a festive vibe.View restaurant profile
Baan Lao emerges in these reviews as a warm, affordable halal friendly spot that blends Bangladeshi, Vietnamese and halal options in a cozy, family owned space. Diners praise fresh ingredients, generous portions, and flavorful pho and banh mi, with beef pho and skewers singled out as standouts and the broth described as rich and well balanced. The service is repeatedly described as friendly, welcoming, and attentive, often with small perks like complimentary tea, and the atmosphere makes it a good spot for families and friends, open late and conveniently near transit. Dishes such as grilled skewers, fuchka, samosas, and vegetarian options appear in strong praise, while a few reviews note slower service during busy times, occasional inconsistency in some orders, and isolated issues like a stray hair or drink quality. Overall, Baan Lao is viewed as a cozy, value driven halal dining option worth trying for those seeking a halal Vietnamese and Bangladeshi fusion.View restaurant profile
